One way of improving your chances of consistent workouts is using the buddy system. It offers many benefits. One is accountability. That’s also one reason trainers help so much. You commit to an exercise program with another person at a specific time, so you go, knowing they’ll be there waiting for you. It’s the same as you do when you work with a trainer. Knowing someone else is tracking your progress keeps you accountable. One study found that people kept their workout schedule better if they were phoned every two weeks to check their progress.
Your workout buddy pushes you to do better and not slack off.
Whether you have a workout buddy or a trainer, someone is always watching and assessing how hard you’re working. Getting to the gym is the first problem you face. Doing something while you’re there is the second. You’ll be less apt to spend time standing around and more time working out. Some people appreciate a buddy for the friendly competition they add. It can push you to do more each time, like one more repetition or set.
It’s safer to use a buddy system.
If you need a spotter at the gym or someone to run with, having a buddy makes it safer. If you’re lifting weights, they can be your spotter. If you’re running, they can come to your aid in an emergency or a deterrent to people with dubious intentions. They are more apt to focus on a single runner, not two people running together. Your workout buddy can also watch how you do a particular exercise and help you with your form. That can improve the benefits and diminish the potential for injury.
You’ll be more adventurous and try new types of exercise.
Whether you want to join a Pilates class or try a new workout, having a buddy to learn with makes you feel emboldened. If you’re by yourself, you might be too intimidated to try using free weights the first time. There is courage in numbers, so trying it together makes it easier. The saying, “Two heads are better than one,” is true. That’s especially true when you use the buddy system. Working together helps you expand your knowledge.
- Workout buddies can encourage you to get you through difficult exercises. They can provide verbal rewards when you’ve accomplished a difficult task and make you more aware of your strengths.
- Be careful when choosing a workout partner. You want someone dedicated to improving their fitness. If you have a bad workout buddy, they can impede your progress.
- Workout buddies make exercising more fun. If something is fun, you are more likely to continue it. You can also share other fitness goals, such as eating healthy. Exchanging healthy recipes is one way.
- If you have a problem finding a workout buddy that will stay consistently focused, consider using a personal trainer. They provide all the benefits already named and a fitness program designed specifically for your needs.
For more information, contact us today at Next Level Fitness