Pick a workout buddy that will make you stick with it
We haven’t actually done the math, but we’d guess that having a workout buddy makes you roughly 1000% more likely to exercise regularly than not having a workout buddy. At least, that’s what those couples who work out together religiously (and document every second of it on Facebook) would lead you to believe. But maybe you just haven’t found that perfect fit yet; that one member of your squad who gives you fitspo every time you check Snapchat, but not in an obnoxious way. He or she could be closer than you think. If you’re struggling to stay committed to a fitness routine and think you may be in need of a workout pal, here are five things to consider before making this very serious commitment:
- Similar interests. Even if you really click with a coworker or college friend, if she’s more into CrossFit and you prefer yoga, your workout marriage will probably be doomed from the beginning. That being said, you don’t have to find someone who loves the exact same types of exercise as you. If you’re both into cardio, that might be enough to keep your union intact. For instance, maybe you’re a runner and he’s a cyclist, or perhaps you like weightlifting and she Vinyasa yoga; as long as you fall under the same category (think “cardio” or “strength training”), you could be good workout buddies.
- Similar skill level. We all have that one long-legged, giraffe-y friend who’s been able to run a mile in less than six minutes since middle school. Do not run with that friend. We repeat, do not run with that friend. You’re going to be way more likely to bail at the last minute when you’re constantly struggling to keep up with her as she leaps leisurely along the sidewalk. Instead, find a friend who’s at about the same fitness level or running pace as you are, and work out side by side.
- Similar schedule. If you love to work out at 5 a.m. and your fitness buddy prefers 10 p.m. sessions when the gym is dead, things probably aren’t going to work out. Preempt the breakup and just don’t get together in the first place. Trust us, it’ll be better for everyone involved.
- Similar goals. Maybe your goal is to gain muscle, lose weight, or simply get stronger. Seek out an exercise companion with the same goal, or at least something close. Your workouts are going to look a lot different if you’re trying to work your way up to Nicki-Minaj-butt, while your friend wants to tone her arms a la Jennifer Aniston.
- Similar sportsmanship. Maybe you’re uber competitive; maybe you couldn’t care less how long it takes you to run a 5k. Either way, seek out a member of your squad who feels the same way about fitness, and has a comparable attitude. If you need constant encouragement, look for someone who has a similar fitness love-language. If you operate better alongside someone who’s super competitive, then that’s who you want by your side at that half-marathon starting line.
Helpful Tips for Choosing the Right Workout Partner [Bodybuilding.com]
10 Reasons to Get a Workout Buddy (and What to Look For) [FitBody HQ]
What to Look for in a Workout Buddy [Babble]