Why You Need a Fitness Buddy This Year
By Genevieveve Cunningham
This is the time of year when many people make goals regarding their fitness. They want to lose weight or drop pant sizes or simply improve their overall health. While these are worthy goals for a new year, the truth is that the majority of these goals will never be met. While we all start out with excellent intentions, we lack the practical skills to get the job done. For those who are successful, some common themes are present in their endeavor. Persistence, patience, and rock solid self determination are among them. But another common theme might be a little easier for the everyday man: A fitness buddy. Take a look at why you should add a fitness friend to your journey this year in order to find ultimate success.
Accountability is Key
One of the toughest parts of staying true to a fitness plan is holding ourselves accountable. The first time we miss, we feel bad. But every time thereafter, we feel just a little less guilt about giving up. And eventually, this leads to a complete loss of your routine. This is where a buddy comes in very handy. A fitness buddy knows your goals, and they likely have a set of their own. You can hold each other accountable and keep each other trudging into the gym on the tough days. The key? Find someone you can trust completely to keep you from getting frustrated with their pushing you to your goals.
Motivation is Stronger in Groups
Habit is what really keeps you going through a lifestyle overhaul, but it’s definitely motivation that gets you started in the beginning. And honestly, you’ll need motivation in abundance for a while. This is a lot easier in a group. When one person’s motivation is lacking, there is another person there to pick up the slack. You can play off of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and hopefully both make it through to the other side where things get just a little bit easier.
It Stifles the Boredom
Another tough part of keeping with a new fitness plan is fighting off the inevitable boredom. Unless you just love to work out, you’re almost guaranteed to feel that little burn of boredom creeping up on you before long. When you’re all alone, this is a tough battle to win. But with a friend, every workout is just a little less boring. When you’re not feeling it, you have someone there with you to talk to, laugh with, and struggle through side by side.
There are many tactics used to make any fitness journey successful. You have to find what works for you, and then stick with it. But using a friend or buddy to help you through is an excellent option for anyone, no matter what step of the journey you’re currently on. Grab a friend, make some goals, and get busy for better health this year.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.
