Do you have a workout partner that helps you navigate your fitness journey? Otherwise, you should!
A workout partner is an invaluable resource if you have weight and health management goals. Lots of people treat exercise as a solitary activity, or something like that to be done in private because it’s often accompanied by feelings of self-consciousness. This is understandable, but working alongside a partner can yield astounding benefits! Let’s tackle a few of them below.
Benefits of a Workout Partner
Your workout partner may take many different forms. Perhaps they’re a friend, spouse, child, co-worker or other family member. You might even have more than one partner! In fact, group exercise can be a powerful ally. Think about a workout partner if you’re thinking about any of the following:
Extra Fun and Enjoyment
People are social creatures by instinct. We love having people around us, particularly when those people share common interests. Exercising with a partner can combine social hour with workout hour! Share a laugh, exchange stories and enjoy each other’s company. You’re likely to enjoy your workout a lot more, which will help you stay consistent.
Safety and Accuracy
When our minds are glued to movement, we can easily forget common safety factors. For example, you may use the wrong form for a strength-training exercise or take a walk somewhere that isn’t safe. Having a partner can help you spot-check your physical performance and identify any danger/injury. They’re another pair of eyes when you need it!
Increased Motivation
Sometimes music doesn’t work. A workout partner can offer valuable encouragement as well as help you find your competitive streak. Their company can be the extra push you need to get going. When the road gets patchy, they are able to help move you through it – literally.
Added Variety
When you workout by yourself, you’re more likely to get stuck in a rut with your routine. However, getting a workout partner can help you try new things. A Saturday hike might be great for the weekend, but a neighborhood jog would be fun for Monday. When you’re out of ideas, your workout partner might have some. Or, they could bring out your creativity.
Quicker Progress
For a number of different reasons, using a workout partner can help you reach your goals faster. This is likely because of increased motivation, renewed energy and competition, extra support and fun coupled with fitness. If you feel like your goals are unrealistic, or like you’ve hit a plateau, consider getting a partner to walk your fitness journey with you.
Final Thoughts
Though a workout partner can be invaluable, you have to also put thought into whom you choose to fill this role. Your partner should be reliable, punctual, encouraging and knowledge of your goals. They should also have similar interests and a schedule that is compatible with your personal. Finally, make sure they are someone you like being around! The extra “fun” in fitness can make a big difference in how quickly, and how effectively, your goals are reached.