3 Benefits to Having an Exercise Buddy
By Virginia Laird
Do you ever find it difficult to get up and head to the gym? This used to happen to me far more than I would like to admit. Fortunately, I have a workout buddy who calls me out when I try to get lazy. My friend came when I least expected her, but she was there and has helped me get fit for more than four years now. Like me, many can benefit from the use of a workout buddy. And your friend could use you too. Fitness professionals offer several suggestions concerning how exercising with a friend can be beneficial, including:
- A workout buddy can encourage you when you need it most
- Exercise buddies can help provide motivation
- You need a workout buddy to keep you at the gym
A Workout Buddy Can Encourage You When You Need It Most
Those of us who struggle to find the willpower to exercise at times, may need a little extra encouragement. My workout friend always notices when I am struggling to complete the entire workout. She never fails to find the right words to help me push to the end. A workout buddy can do the same for you.
Exercise Buddies Can Help Provide Motivation
Fitness instructors remind those looking for ways to stay motivated that a buddy can help. Everyone with fitness or weight loss goals will hit a plateau at some point. Watching a friend make progress can serve as a gentle reminder that your progress will continue as you work hard. This can help keep you motivated to continue toward the goals you have set.
You Need a Workout Buddy to Keep You at the Gym
Working out alone can be a miserable activity. It can also leave you questioning whether you should continue to go to the gym at all. Or much worse, without someone expecting you at the gym, you may slowly decide to skip out on exercise all together. Having an exercise buddy can help you make the decision to be at the gym. After all, you wouldn’t want to disappoint someone who is counting on you.
With all the research and advice suggesting successful workouts are best when accompanied with a friend, it may be time you consider which friend you may most enjoy working out with. Your exercise friend may just be someone you least expect and you both may be a blessing to the other. Good luck and may you have more productive workouts with your buddy.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Southlake, Tex.