The More the Merrier: the benefits of having a workout partner
June 3, 2004

There are many benefits to having a workout partner. You may be thinking "who?" or "how?" or "why?" This week's e-Well Tip will answer these questions and more.

WHY? TO KEEP YOU (OR GET YOU) MOTIVATED
A partner can motivate you to workout when you're feeling like you'd much rather head home and plop yourself on the couch. When you have a workout partner, someone is counting on you to show up. By being held accountable, you are more likely to follow through with your workouts achieve your health and fitness goals.

WHO? SOMEONE WITH A SIMILAR FITNESS LEVEL
Finding someone who has a compatible fitness level is important. If you are just beginning a walking program, working out with a seasoned jogger may not be a good fit for either of you. There can be a little bit of compromise, but exercising with someone at a much higher or lower fitness level may be discouraging or a barrier to improving your own level.

HOW? ASK AROUND
You may be surprised at how quickly a co-worker or friend jumps on board. "Getting in shape" seems to be on everyone's To-Do List. Start asking some classmates, co-workers, friends and relatives. If they're not interested or a good fit for you, ask them is they know anyone who might be.

WHO? SOMEONE WITH SIMILAR GOALS
Look for a workout partner that has similar goals. Maybe you're both interested in being able to walk further or faster. Maybe you both want to be able to hike a small mountain in New Hampshire this fall. Maybe you both want to be able to run a 5K. Once you've agreed to be partners, set up some short- and long-term fitness goals and hold each other accountable. You'll be shocked at how quickly they get accomplished!

WHY? IT CAN MAKE EXERCISE MORE FUN
You may think that exercising is boring - that walking is boring. A partner can turn exercise into a social event. You will find yourself looking forward to the great chat your going to have during or after you get together.

HOW? SET SOME "RULES"
Set some guidelines around the time and dates/days that you'll be working out. Decide if there will be rules like "no work talk" or "no school talk." Agreements like this will make future workout sessions enjoyable for both of you. It's also important to discuss when you think it's acceptable to cancel (weather, etc.), and the best way to notify each other of this.

WHO? SOMEONE WHO HAS A SIMILAR SCHEDULE
Look for a workout partner that has the same free-time that you do. It's also a good idea to make sure that you find someone that enjoys working out at the same time of day that you do. Not everyone is a morning person. And not everyone has time available after work. Try to be as flexible as possible - especially if you think you'll be a good match.

GOOD LUCK!

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