Workout buddies are not just for gym rats. Having someone with you for a walk, a run or any physical activity could help to improve your health and wellbeing.
“A workout buddy can make any activity more enjoyable and motivating,” says Benjamin Johnson, an employee wellbeing specialist for BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. “Having a regular companion for your choice of exercise activity, from walking to hiking to pickleball, is a positive thing.”
Benefits of a workout partner
Benjamin Johnson: Even people who consider themselves introverts can benefit from working out with someone. A small dose of socialization could enhance your physical activity — and your health. Here are some other benefits:
- Accountability: Sometimes exercising alone can be hard. When you have a partner waiting for you at the gym or the court, you’re more inclined to show up, even on days when you don’t feel like it.
- Friendly competition: Physical activity can be more fun if you have someone to do it with. You might push yourself to achieve a little more in the spirit of competition, and you might get better results from working a little harder.
- Support: Sometimes it’s a struggle to exercise. Having a partner to encourage and support you can make it easier. A supportive partner can motivate you to keep going.
- Someone to watch your form: Your workout buddy can make sure you maintain correct form, which can reduce your chances of getting injured. You can provide a safer exercise environment for each other.
- Chance to learn from each other: Your partner might be able to teach you a few things — and vice versa.
How to find a workout buddy
Benjamin Johnson: You might already have a friend in mind who could be a great workout buddy for you. If not, here are some ideas:
- Ask a co-worker. You don’t have to be best friends to be good workout partners. In fact, a friendly co-worker with a similar schedule might be a better fit.
- Ask friends for recommendations. Spread the word that you’re looking for a partner and see if your friends know anyone who might fit the bill. There’s a good chance that someone else wants to boost their fitness and would be glad to have a workout buddy.
- Check with your neighbors. You might find the perfect workout partner right next door — or down the street.
- Explore your network. Check out local groups on your favorite social media platform to see if anyone matches up.
- Step out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. For example, if you enjoy dropping in on a pick-up basketball game, you might ask the players if you could join them for games. You might meet someone who could become your workout partner.
What to consider when choosing a workout partner
Benjamin Johnson: This isn’t a decision that you want to make without considering a few things first.
Find someone who has similar interests. It won’t help you to pick a partner who wants to swim laps if you want to lift weights. However, you can choose different workout buddies for different activities, in case you want to swim laps and hit the gym.
Also, find a partner who shares a similar schedule and goals. Be sure to talk about the logistics: where you’ll exercise, when you’ll exercise and how often.
You also want to make sure you’re approaching your exercise sessions with a similar mindset. Make sure the person is committed to their exercise or workout plans and discuss your workout styles and habits.
“Ultimately, a workout partner can help you enjoy exercising more,” says Benjamin. “And if you enjoy exercising, you’ll do it more often and you’ll get more out of it.”
More from Benjamin Johnson on WellTuned
Get more information about specific health terms, topics and conditions to better manage your health on bcbst.com. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee members can access wellness-related discounts on fitness products, gym memberships, healthy eating and more through Blue365®. BCBST members can also find tools and resources to help improve health and well-being by logging into BlueAccess and going to the Managing Your Health tab.