Exercising with a buddy can make the challenges of consistent exercise more fun and motivating. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) highlights that a buddy can make your workouts more enjoyable: "Take your spouse, your children, or a friend with you during exercise to add some fun to your routine." Committing to your workouts can be easier when done with a friend, too. Journey for Control, Advancing Diabetes Education, emphasizes, "You'll be less likely to skip your workout when you know someone is depending on you." Finding a workout friend just requires a little creative networking.
Step 1
Ask and post on bulletin boards. Let your co-workers, friends and family know that you are serious about starting an exercise program. You might be surprised by who wants to do the same. For example, if you are a stay-at-home-mom, then ask another friend who is the same to be your workout buddy. Or post on bulletin boards at your church, volunteer location or other activity spot that you want to buddy up for workouts. People who commit to other activities might be great candidates for committing to a workout routine with you.
Step 2
Start a company wellness program, as described in the Net Wellness link in Resources. To get started, ask one or more co-workers to walk with you each day at lunch or to head to the closest gym for a noon-time group exercise class. The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that, "Sports and exercise time is often scheduled around other activities, such as work." Once you get enough people interested, you can head to your human resources department to formulate plans for a company wellness program, which might include goals for getting workout groups or pairs started companywide.
Step 3
Visit online workout buddy finder sites. You can also post on forums that you are looking for a workout friend in your area. Websites like Livestrong and Ready to Sweat have forums that connect you with like-minded people. See Resources for the links.
Step 4
Join a Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig weight-loss plan and ask some of the people in your group if they want to work out with you. Workout friends who are also motivated to eat healthy may inspire you to stay on your fitness track.
Step 5
Network at your gym. Let some of the fitness staff, front desk or group exercise instructors know that you are looking for a workout friend. It is possible that they might know others who are seeking a workout buddy just like you are. Personal trainers often offer small group training sessions. Just ask the front desk at your health club to speak to one.
Tips and Warnings
- With your friend, pick one activity a week to try outside of your regular routine. This will keep your workouts interesting and fun. Work out even if you do not have a fitness friend yet. Try walking, exercise DVDs and your local gym to get started.
Things You'll Need
- Gym membership (optional)
- Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig membership (optional)
Member Comments