Staying active and fit is way more fun when you join forces with another person focused on similar goals; it’s also more likely to happen, day after day, week after week. Meeting up to work out is a smart way to increase your odds of fitness success; the encouragement you and your workout partner get from each other will strengthen your confidence, your resolve, and your friendship.
Normally, I workout in solitude. I don’t mind it and generally speaking I can crank out a good workout by myself with little to no interaction with others. However, earlier this summer I was able to workout with a great friend of mine (…and Fit Men Movement podcast co-host; Matt Bracegirdle) for a few days and we really noticed a difference in the intensity of our workouts during that time. Anytime you can involve a friend who is at or near your same fitness level on a regular basis; you will find that you will naturally up your intensity and get more our of your workouts.
Accountability Counts
Getting fit on your own isn’t impossible, but it’s more challenging. One advantage of teaming up is having an accountability partner. When you don’t feel like going for that walk or run, chances are you’ll show up if your workout partner is expecting you.
There’s something very powerful about declaring your goals out loud to someone else, committing to action steps… and knowing you’re going to be asked to report on your progress. Gaining traction — and making momentum — toward your goals can take a lot longer when you’re answering only to yourself… especially when you’re just getting started.
Rally The Reinforcements
Working with a workout partner sets you up for lasting success. Tactics can include:
- Weekly progress reviews
- In-person kudos and high-fives
- Suggesting new activities to try
- Going for a bike ride or day hike
- Taking a group fitness class together
- Sharing a ride to sports league practice
- Helping troubleshoot around obstacles
- Positive shout-outs by text, social media, or email
- Throwing down a new daily or weekly fitness challenge
- Training together for a fun run, triathlon, or bike race
- Introducing each other to active friends and colleagues
- Calling you out when you’re slacking off
- Reminding you of how far you’ve come when you feel like giving up.
Think about what a huge difference these strategies could make for you both.
Sit down with your workout partner and brainstorm the best ways to support each other. Be specific in asking for the type of support you want; in turn, make sure you’re clear on the type your workout partner wants from you. Supporting your workout partner may be even more influential than being on the receiving side. And knowing someone is counting on you for encouragement is motivating, and instills a sense of duty to kick your own effort up a notch.
Everybody Wins
Having an ally at your side as you move toward a higher level of fitness can make all the difference in the world. Inspiring each other to keep going through hills and valleys along the way creates a shared sense of determination and accomplishment, builds laser-sharp focus, and gives you ongoing victories to celebrate.
Need a Coach?
If you need to find someone that will hold you accountable, answer your questions, help you, and PUSH YOU for the entire duration of your workout! Luckily for you, that’s what me and my team are here for. If you don’t have a coach yet and want one, I’d love to be your coach and help you through a fitness program. I am available to help you reach your goals!
Email Me: coachchris@yourfitnesspath.com
Connect on Facebook: fb.com/coachcoburn
YouTube: https://youtu.be/coachchriscoburn
Instagram: @chris_coburn
Twitter: @yourfitnesspath
0 Comments