Regardless of whether you are new to the exercise world or have been working out for a long time, having an exercise partner can help you meet your goals. Many studies have shown that people who have an exercise buddy have a higher probability of reaching personal fitness goals.
An exercise partner can be anyone..your partner/spouse, a friend or neighbor, another gym member, even your furry four-legged friend. Having someone else to exercise with allows you to be more committed and work harder to meet your goals. If you are a solo-endeavor type person, you may think having someone to workout with is just going to hold you back. Not everyone needs or wants and exercise buddy. However, if you are stuck in a rut or feel like you are having difficulty reaching your goal then you may want to explore the option of "buddy-workouts".
If this sounds like something you may be interested in, there are a few things to consider before grabbing the closest person and making them your new partner. First, and foremost, it's helpful to have a partner who has similar goals. If you are trying to lose weight and your partner wants to bulk up, you both may be frustrated after a couple of workouts. Second, choose a partner who will motivate and push you, while at the same time, be understanding of challenges you may face working towards your goal. If your spouse or significant other doesn't understand that you will have good days and bad days with exercise, you may become frustrated and feel "bullied" into working out.
Having someone you trust and respect is important also. Your workout partner will be a sounding board for things that frustrate you; he/she will help you work through problems in your "non-exercise" world. If you value their opinions and trust them, you will build camaraderie and both of you will benefit in the long run.
Not sure where to look for a workout partner? Start at the gym. Don't hesitate to approach someone who may be working towards a similar goal. Looking for a running partner? Chat up the person running on the treadmill every day. Looking for someone to workout with in a group exercise setting? Talk to someone in your next class and see when they typically attend classes. Other ways to find a workout buddy are to check with local running clubs, post a request via social media (such as Facebook, Twitter, or Four Square), or just ask anyone! What's the harm in that? The worse thing they can say is they aren't interested in a workout partner.
Find a partner, build a new friendship, meet your goals. Need help finding that "perfect someone" to workout with you? Stop in at PROMATx Health Club and talk with our staff. We can help you partner up and get you one step closer to that goal.
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