While working out solo is preferred by many, there are plenty of benefits to having someone next to you while you try to get that last lap in at Mission Bay. Here are a few quick reasons why you should get a workout partner (and how to find one).
Motivation
Having a workout partner is more like having an accountability partner. By promising to workout with someone, you’ll be less likely to skip days and be more likely to create a routine. Plus! You’ll have someone there to push you (and you’ll be able to push them too).
Nothing is more motivating than being distracted too. Having a chatty workout buddy might sound like a nightmare, but it’s often nice to have someone distracting you and making the time pass quicker.
Problems can arise when you have a judgmental workout partner, or someone you don’t jive with. That might lead you to feel less motivated to work out because you dread being alone with them, so be sure you pick someone you can trust (and that you like).
Ideas Galore
I would never, in a million years, go rock climbing, especially by myself. But I did it! Why? My workout buddy said it looked fun and I gave it a shot, and honestly, it was great!
By having a partner it is way easier to try new things. Plus, a lot of gyms/classes offer free passes to friends/family, so you can split a membership and go together.
Just be sure to find something that sticks! Making a workout a routine rather than a roulette will make it easier to build it into your schedule and help make sure you both make it there regularly.
Someone to Measure Against
Competition is not a motivating force for anyone. But, it is nice to have someone to compare yourself to. If your partner is improving and you’re not, that’s a good sign for you to push harder. Maybe it’s a sign that you’re more capable than you think.
Plus, having someone else around is a good way to get tips and pointers. It can seem scary to partner up with a gym rat when you’re more of a couch potato, but they probably know more than you do and can help speed you to success.
And if you’re the gym rat looking for a couch potato, this is a great way to learn more about the process and help someone else grow.
Now… how to find a Workout Partner
Asking someone if they want to exercise with you is… a dubious process. You definitely don’t want to push someone into doing something they don’t want to do, and you certainly don’t want to insult them. My advice? Start slow. Ask a friend or a loved one if they want to go for a walk or to go play tennis or something.
You really shouldn’t start with CrossFit or something that requires you to spend $100 on gear. Try and align with their interests!
Also, ask around! Is there a person you want to get to know better? What about a work friend who you want to be a real life friend? What about local family? These are all just starting points, of course!
And for the parents out there, maybe you’ve got an active kid who has too much energy. Some of my fondest memories with my dad were when he taught me how to bench press in our garage. Try seeing if they’d be down to go for a walk or would want to play basketball or pickleball or well, just about anything!