Jan. 16, 2012
Overland Park Boot Camp – What to Look for in a Workout Buddy
What to Look for in a Workout Buddy
Ready to get started on a workout plan, but not sure you’ll be able to do it on your own? Find a workout buddy! Most people seem to enjoy a little social interaction while working out -not to mention a little friendly competition – to keep them motivated.
A workout buddy is one of the best ways to keep yourself accountable to your program, and chances are you’ll enjoy your workout much more than if you “go it alone”, especially if you’re relatively new to a fitness program, or if you just joined a big gym.
Choose your workout buddy carefully, however. There are a few things you should probably consider before getting started.
Similar Schedules
First, make sure both of you are available to meet for your workout at the same time. If one of you is an early bird who likes to work out at the crack of dawn, but the other is a night owl who prefers an evening workout, you might have a tough time getting together consistently. Set your workout schedule and stick to it! Hold each other accountable.
Similar Goals and Fitness Levels
Next, while it can be hugely inspirational to workout with someone who is much more fit than you, you’ll find that you both benefit more when you’re around the same fitness level. It helps to have the same or similar goals as your partner, so your workouts will follow the same program. For example…if one of you is focused on fat loss, and the other on building muscle, your workout programs could be so different from one another that you end up working out by yourself anyway!
Personality Match
Finally, figure out if your “gym personalities” match. Are you someone who likes to chat while you work out, or do you put on your headphones and get down to business…essentially tuning out everything around you? You should be sure that your gym partner has the same workout ethic as you do. You want your partner to push you, challenge you, and keep you motivated. If you like to focus on the workout, but your partner likes to chat…it could lead to frustration. If you both tend to work out the same way, chances are you will have effective and enjoyable sessions at the gym.
Grab a buddy & get moving!

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