Ever had a workout partner? “Fitness Friends” can be great, but be selective when choosing a gym buddy- and keeping a gym buddy, with your fitness goals in mind. Generally, I’d say any workout partner is a good one in the beginning. They’re great for conversation, social motivation, and keeping you to your agreed schedule. After a while though, workout partners can end up being sort of a burden. One of two start to slack off, back out of appointments, or get relaxed into routines.
Like finding your personal training fit, finding a good workout partner can be just as challenging. In college I had a lot of gym buddies- mostly my friends and roommates. It always started out great- we’d both be super motivated, planning to workout every day, and everything would just fit. Then as the weeks went by, our schedules would clash, we’d be tired, have homework, or whatever we had better to do- and eventually it’d slowly run it’s course.
When agreeing to workout with someone- be flexible. The more you’re willing to adapt and speak up in the situation- the better experience you’ll have. You can still gain social benefits by ride sharing or walking together to the gym, without having to be side by side on the treadmill the whole time. Save the chit-chat for before and after your routine so you can truly get the workout you want and spend some time with your friend.
GET FIT DEALS:
- Walmart: week’s grocery store deals– $15.97 (Shipped)
- XBOX 360 Kinect: Your Shape Fitness Evolved 2012
– $29.99 (Shipped)
- iTunes: Calorie Tracker – LIVESTRONG.COM: Achieve Your Diet and Fitness Goals– $2.99
