Two women high-fiving while in plank position ()
Finding the motivation to get to the gym can be a struggle, sometimes near impossible. Add on trying to plan a workout and eating healthy on top of everything and things just get even worse. Take the stress out of planning all your workouts and finding the willpower to leave the couch by hitting the gym with a friend. Anyone with similar fitness goals, a little ambition and a drive to live a healthier life will do.
Fitness enthusiast Liz Houser is a proponent of workout buddies, with some stipulations. “You can’t just workout with anyone,” she says. You have to be with another person who also wants to accomplish goals and has a similar workout style. For Houser, the ideal situation is if both people are on the same workout plan.
You don’t have to lift the exact same amount, Houser points out, but at least be doing the same movements. Having a buddy will push you to reach your personal goals, assuming they have similar ones. A buddy can also spot you when doing heavy lifting and watch your form, keeping you safe and optimizing your movements.
One of the most important benefits of having a workout buddy is the motivation. “You will be more motivated when you know someone is waiting for you. It’s not just you anymore,” says Houser. The old saying “misery loves company” is all too true. Workout buddies can keep you honest because they know if you haven’t been to the gym, and certainly no one wants to hit the gym alone.
Another benefit of having a workout buddy is the free therapy sessions. Instead of grabbing drinks and ingesting all those extra calories, chat before and after your workout, but minimally in the middle of it. It’s important to maintain focus and intensity.
Who is the best person to be your workout buddy? Consider co-workers who have similar schedules, family members, spouses and members of fitness classes you have attended. The possibilities are endless!
Whether it’s pounding the pavement or getting swol, find a workout buddy today who can help you achieve your fitness goals. With a little extra motivation, you are sure to hit that goal weight in no time! Who knows, maybe you’ll even surprise yourself and your workout buddy with how much you can squat.
