The Secret of Workout Buddies (Part 2 of 2)

After busting our humps (and lumps!) for another week, Erin and I are starting to feed off each other’s energy and enthusiasm. I am convinced that having a compatible workout buddy is the secret to fitness success. Use the steps below to find a buddy that’s perfect for you.

 

Steps to Finding a Good Workout Buddy

 

1.  Choose Someone with a Comparable Schedule

Obviously, if one of you has a 9-5 job and the other is on the night shift, scheduling workouts will be difficult at best. Find someone with a similar schedule so you can get together on a regular basis. You might even be able to share a babysitter if you both have children!

 

2.  Choose Someone with Similar Goals

If one of you wants to train for a marathon, and the other wants to lose weight and build muscle, your workouts will be very different. Find someone with goals that match your own. It’s much easier to encourage and motivate your buddy when you are working towards a common goal.

 

3.  Choose Someone Who’s in Better Shape Than You

Working out with someone who is a step or two ahead of you pushes you to work harder, rather than slack off or make excuses. They’ve chartered the course and know firsthand how hard it can be to reach goals. Their support and encouragement will help you strive further than you would on your own.

 

4.  Choose Someone You Respect and Trust

Sometimes getting in shape requires tough love. You need to be able to ask questions and feel vulnerable with your buddy if you want to reach big goals. It’s important to choose a workout partner who can honestly (but gently!) point out areas that could use improvement. It’s crucial that you respect your buddy enough to listen to their advice without getting defensive or hurt.

 Do you have a workout buddy? If so, tell us about them! If not, what are you waiting for?    

 

 

Abbi