Fitness is Fun with a Friend
This week, I spent some time working out with my sister, who I was visiting in the States. She just started exercising after some time off, and the hot weather meant that both of us needed a little push to get out the door. I encouraged her to try things she didn’t think possible, and she impressed me! The upside for me was quality time with my sister and getting in some great exercise – but having so much fun that I didn’t even realize I was burning calories!
Exercising with a friend is a great way to motivate, have fun, and keep you on track. Studies show that only 6% of people who exercise with a partner drop their fitness routine, versus 43% who exercise alone! If the numbers don’t convince you, read on…
Motivation
Working out with a friend provides positive inspiration and helps to kick start your competitive streak. A friend can provide tough love when you need it, but support you when the going gets tough. Preferably your exercise buddy will share similar goals, but no one’s fitness level is exactly the same. Maybe your friend can push you to run a little faster than your normal comfort zone and you can provide the motivation to do just one more press-up. Your friend’s long, lean physique might inspire you to attend a Pilates class together, while your knowledge of fun cycling routes can motivate getting into the saddle!
Fun
Exercising with a friend is much more fun than working out alone. If your running route is getting tired, it gets an instant refresh when you add lively conversation. A boot camp class that seemed a little embarrassing alone becomes a fun challenge with a friend. Fitness with a friend is also a fun time-saver. If you just can’t seem to fit in time to exercise and hang out with your friends, combining the two is a healthy way to stay in touch. Maybe it’s not quite as fun as a night out at the pub, but you get some serious bonding time, without the unpleasant side effects the next day. (Ok, your muscles may be a bit sore, but it’s worth it!)
Staying on Track
It’s easy to promise yourself that you’ll hit the gym after work or to vow to get up early to go for a run. It’s also easy to hit the snooze button. Chances are you won’t ditch your friend in the park if you plan an early workout session or cancel a meet-up at the yoga studio. Exercising with a friend makes you accountable and gives you something to look forward to.
If you still need some inspiration, try these outdoor strength-building exercises meant to be done with a partner.
Finding a supportive friend is a great way to keep fitness from being a chore and will keep you looking forward to exercising, even on those days when you’d rather stay in bed.
Have fun!
Photography by Nao Marooka, Indiana Stan, and Katie Harbath
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