Exercise with a friend

We know that exercise is great for our minds and bodies, but sometimes it is hard to stay interested. That is why exercising with a friend can be such a benefit. Here are eight reasons to get exercising with a friend.

It is more fun with a friend#

You are less likely to get bored when you have a workout buddy. While you are catching up, having a laugh and encouraging each other, you are also getting healthier. It is a win-win. Chatting during exercise and breaks can help the time pass quickly, and you will have more options too, such as a game of tennis or squash.

You can build new friendships#

Exercising with someone you do not know well is an opportunity to build a new friendship. You start with a shared interest — improving your health — which can make it easier to chat about other things as you work out. Joining an exercise class can also be a great way to meet people and get to know them better.

You are more likely to stick to your commitment#

If you have arranged to meet a friend for a walk or booked an exercise class, you are more likely to keep that commitment. Not wanting to let your friend down can be a great motivator to show up. As your exercise becomes routine, perhaps after a few weeks, you will both find it easier and be more likely to keep going. On the days you do not feel like exercising, a pep talk from your workout buddy might be just the lift you need.

You are more likely to reach your goal#

You can support each other. Remember, exercise is still beneficial even if you are not losing weight. When you exercise with a friend who is around the same fitness level, you are more likely to encourage each other and to push a little harder than you might on your own.

Having someone to motivate you can make all the difference#

A friend can bring out your competitive side and spur you on. When you are ready to give up, the sight of your friend powering on might be just the incentive you need to keep going.

It can be more affordable#

If you hire a personal trainer or buy equipment, splitting the cost two ways will save you money. You can also save on travel by car-pooling to the park, gym, pool or sports venue.

Your friend may have new exercise ideas#

Your workout buddy probably has skills and knowledge that you do not. Along the way you might learn something new — refine your running style, for example — or take up a whole new sport or activity. Variety is the key to sticking with your exercise plan: you will have more fun and less reason to quit.

It is safer to exercise with someone else#

Having someone to spot you when you are lifting weights, or to go running with you, especially at night, means you have help at hand if anything goes wrong.

Finding someone to exercise with#

There are plenty of ways to find an exercise partner. Here are a few suggestions to get the ball rolling.

• Friends or family. Start with friends and family who live nearby, or maybe a neighbour or a work colleague. Suggest a daily or weekly workout date, make the commitment, and help each other reach your goals.
• Start a walking group. Walking groups are easy to find or to start from scratch. What about a lunchtime walking group at work?
• Charity or fundraising teams. Get fit and do a good deed at the same time by taking part in a charity event. Many charities host walks, runs and triathlons to raise money and awareness for their causes.
• Boot camps. Boot camps are a fun, affordable way to join a fitness group. Many personal trainers offer discounted boot camp programs at local parks and recreation centres. Search online for one in your area.
• Sports clubs or groups. If a particular sport takes your fancy, there is sure to be a club or group where you can share your passion, practise and play — think soccer, table tennis, tai chi, darts or dancing. Search online for clubs or groups in your area.

Having structure to your exercise helps keep you committed.

Exercise ideas to share with friends#

The options are endless. Here are a few to try with a friend:

• walking (and talking!)
• running or jogging
• tennis
• swimming or aqua aerobics
• dancing
• yoga or pilates
• aerobics classes
• tai chi in the park
• a gym class (this can be easier to do together if you are nervous to try on your own)
• hiking in local nature reserves
• cycling around your neighbourhood
• personal training
• golf

Key points#

• We know that exercise is great for our minds and bodies, but sometimes it is hard to stay interested.
• Variety is the key to sticking with your exercise plan.
• Many charities host walks, runs and triathlons to raise money and awareness for their causes.

Where to get help#