Until I changed gyms about a year ago, I woke up every morning at 3:30 AM and headed out to the gym to meet my workout partner, Lori. It didn’t matter what was going on in our lives or what the weather was like (except ice; Lori doesn’t do ice!), we made the effort to get there and not disappoint each other. Although we do still talk and work out together occasionally, it’s hard to give up the benefits of having a fitness buddy and the familiarity of seeing the same people and sharing workout ups and downs. If you are having trouble with consistency, motivation and/or finding new exercises and techniques, finding a workout partner might be just what you need.
First and foremost, having a partner makes you accountable, not only for your own fitness, but for someone else’s success. If you don’t show up, their workout suffers and vice versa. It’s easy to sleep in on a cold, rainy morning, but you’re more likely to get the coffee brewing and head out the door if you know someone is counting on you. (Guilt is an awesome motivator)
Also, the mutual admiration and competition between workout partners can encourage you to work harder. You can cheer each other on with each success, be it losing weight, lowering cholesterol, or gaining strength. The friendly competition between you and your partner can push both of you to lift a heavier weight, hold your plank for an extra ten seconds, or run another five minutes on the treadmill. You develop the mindset “If she can do it, I should work just as hard”, and this competition can help deter any temptation you might have to slack off.
And finally, having a “second opinion” helps you evaluate your form while lifting; acting as your own personal trainer for any new activities. If, for example, you can’t quite manage the Bosu, or need a little help with your strength training routine, your workout partner can give you a hand and a fresh perspective. He/she can add variety to your work out by suggesting a different exercise that you hadn’t thought of. And, if you’ve hit a plateau in your training and are not making any additional gains in fitness,strength,weight loss, etc., having someone who is more objective and brings additional ideas and skills to the "table" could be the answer. You’re also less likely to be nervous about trying a new class, machine or exercise when you have a partner.
There really are lots of different ways to find the right partner. If you’re a member of a gym or fitness center, the staff might be able to suggest other members who have the same fitness goals as you. Lori had been working with a trainer when I first met her and the trainer suggested we work out together when her sessions were finished. Also, take notice of members who seem to be at the gym at the same times as you and which ones have similar routines. Some gyms also have a bulletin board where you can post a request for a work out partner. Even if you don’t belong to a gym, you might be able to find someone by letting your friends know that you are looking for someone to walk or cycle with. Or, if you overhear someone at work or school mention that they are trying to get fit or lose weight, you could ask them if they’d like a work out or support partner. Don’t feel hurt if they say no since some people prefer to go it alone.
Having a similar level of fitness and similar schedules is most ideal, but I’ve worked out with first time exercisers, marathon runners and competitive body builders and I always learn something new from each one. Realize that your best workout partner could be the person next to you during a cycling or aerobics class or on the treadmill next to you. So turn down your IPOD, take off your headphones, and ask!!
Harriette, I must say, I agree with everything you said. My workouts are not the same without you as my partner. You know how hard it will be to replace you. I guess I will have to do it alone and ask a stranger to spot me. No fun!
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