Why a workout buddy could be the secret to keeping fit

Before joining forces with an exercise partner, Lukins recommends talking about your expectations regarding the types of activity you plan to do, how often you want to meet up, and your contingency plans should one of you be sick or away.

Before joining forces with an exercise partner, talk about your expectations regarding the types of activity you plan to do, how often you want to meet up, and your contingency plans should one of you be sick or away.

Then, pay attention to how you feel after your workout. If you walk away feeling good about yourself, it’s a sign of a healthy interaction. But if you leave a session feeling somewhat deflated, it’s best to look for a new partner.

Just remember that exercise preferences change. So, if walking no longer floats your boat and you’d rather shift your gaze towards climbing a mountain, don’t feel bad about cutting ties if your current workout buddy isn’t interested in your new pursuit. “You need to be open to the idea that this is not necessarily a forever relationship,” says Lukins.

But if you do find an exercise pal you click with and who also helps you kick your workout goals, Susanne advises cherishing that relationship. While she’s become noticeably fitter since working out with Wendy, she’s even more thrilled about how their friendship has deepened in the process.

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That doesn’t surprise Lukins. While having a workout buddy has obvious physical health benefits, she says the fact it helps strengthen relationships is more than just the cherry on top. “If we can incorporate social connection through our physical activity, that’s good for not only our physical health, but our psychological health, too.”

To read more from Sunday Life magazine, click here.

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