Workout partner: Let’s do one more lap
One of the most important investment you can make in your quest to reach your health and fitness goals is to get a workout partner or friend who is like a coach and a protege. They can offer helpful advise as well as accept guidance and input from you. They are the ones who will say”let’s do one more lap” or “run a half mile more”. Or they may ask you to spot them on those last two reps on the bench press.
Before you even start a workout program I advise discussing your weight loss goals with your partner. How about getting up the nerve to join a gym or an aerobics class or even a spin class. Who better to talk to than your best bud. Ok so they would rather sit on the couch and watch the game or “House Wives Of . . .”
If that’s the case then go to plan B. Get one of your friend who is a gym regular and make a date to visit her fitness center the next time she goes. She would probably be happy to show you the ropes as well as introduce you to her workout buddies.
If you are still hesitant then seek out a personal trainer who can dedicate a specific time each day for a one on one workout session. Do this until you are comfortable doing it on your own. It may be for a month or two but learn as much as you can during each meeting. Many fitness centers offer a free session; some even let you do it for a week at a nominal fee.
Join a meetup group. I am in one.
What to expect from your partner
Some immediate benefits of a workout partner include . . .
- Moral support and encouragement. They will encourage when you don’t feel like exercising.
- You can do meal plans together and discuss each other’s individual progress.
- They are a positive influence on you.
- They share workout tips and ideas.
- If you’ve exercised by yourself you will notice that sometimes it can become boring and the time just seems to drag on. A good partner will help to make the time go faster.
- You will increase your workout time and try new routines.
Remember. It’s a two way street. You must be a motivator for your workout partner when they need encouraging.
Some don’ts with your partner
While you are exercising together, socialization should be kept to a minimum since this will distract you. You can always BS afterwards, but while you are exercising your focus should be on the task at hand.
Be careful to find a partner who is a positive influence on you and not someone who will drag you down. You should have each others best interest at heart. Don’t allow anyone into your circle who belittles you or doesn’t offer positive encouragement. This is the easiest route to failure.
Your partner will be a huge boost to your overall fitness program. They will help you get the most benefits out of your efforts. You can set short-term and long-term fitness goals together.
If you are serious about reversing or preventing pre-diabetes and improving your overall health, a partner is the one who will get you over the hump.
To learn more about workout partners and the type of exercises you can do together visit How to Prevent Pre-diabetes.