Workout Partners Can Really Help!

You set your gym clothes out the night before. Your running shoes wait by the door. But you just can’t seem to get out of bed. You need something to motivate you. That’s when your workout partner knocks on the door. You know she’s dressed and ready for your morning jog. It’s time to get out of bed and put on your running shoes! Having a workout partner, whether it’s a friend or family member, can really help when you just can’t seem to make it on your own. While you might skip the jog if it’s just you, the thought of letting your buddy down can get you up and going. Having a friend with you can also turn the work part of your workout into fun. But what happens if your pal can’t give you the support you need? A workout buddy who doesn’t help you stick to your goals can do more harm than good. Here are some tips to help you choose a partner who is more of a cheerleader than a couch potato. 1. Look for shared goals. Find friends who are shooting for the same goal, or close to it. Maybe you haven’t been active in a while and just want to fit into your favorite jeans. If so, a friend who is training for their second triathlon may not be your best match. 2. Share the love. You can have more than one workout buddy. It’s OK if Sharon from work is your walking friend, but you play tennis on Wednesdays with Tim from your book club. And you can still join a weekend hiking group with Linda, your friend from school. The more workout pals you have, the lower your chance of being stuck without something active to do. 3. Keep it fresh. If you or your walking buddy start to grow bored with your daily walk, suggest something else. The more fun you have being active, the more active you will want to be. Go out and try something new. If you like it, keep it. If not, try the next thing on your list. From yoga to Zumba®, there are many ways to get fit. While a friend may help keep you going, the choice to be active is really yours. Make activity fun. Choose the right partner. Then tell yourself to get up and move. Diet and Exercise Workout