How to Succeed with a Good Exercise Partner

Some people just love to exercise and have no trouble staying excited about it. Others (like me) struggle with staying consistent and exercising at times when they are especially busy, tired or stressed. So, how do we get over this hurdle? I’ve found that a good exercise partner can go a long way to help get your butt to the gym. It’s all about the moral support.

Even though I know the key to exercise success, finding a good exercise partner can really be a challenge. I have one friend who always wants to commit to the job, but I’ve found she does more harm than good. I’m actually better off going it alone because she’s always offering up other things to do at our designated gym time. Of course I’d rather go to the mall than to the gym, but that’s not what my body needs.

By now, since I’ve already covered the bad, you’re probably wondering what makes someone a good exercise partner. Well, here goes:

First, a good exercise partner should be prompt so that you can easily fit a workout into your schedule. It’ll help if she works the same schedule as you. In other words, if you’re a software developer with 9 to 5 hours, don’t ask your doctor friend who works around the clock. Second, a good exercise partner should be close to your fitness level so that the two of you can challenge one another without anyone getting frustrated. Last, both partners should have similar priorities regarding exercise so that exercise will be more consistent. If your partner cancels over insignificant things, you both will struggle to reach your fitness goals.

By finding a good exercise partner to be accountable to, you will be more likely to stick to your regimen. On days when you don't feel like exercising, you can feed off of your friend's enthusiasm. When you’re done, you’ll both have a great feeling of accomplishment. Plus, everything always is more fun with a friend; am I right? You’ll start looking forward to the time spend together – and looking forward to exercise in the process.

Make it a priority to find an exercise partner, and you will be well on your way to accomplishing your fitness goals in 2012.