PERKS OF A GYM BUDDY

Some people love to work out with friends. Some people prefer to work out on their own. I definitely lean more towards working out with friends although sometimes it is nice to go to the gym by myself and do my own thing. No matter which you prefer, a gym buddy can be the key to keeping you consistent on your fitness journey.

Benefits of a Workout Partner

A gym buddy can push you to work harder, help you mix up your workout, provide some entertainment, and best of all get you to the gym.

A few weeks ago, my roommate mentioned she was considering going to the gym before work in the morning. She was pretty much failing at getting to the gym in the evenings. I have been going to the gym in the morning for years, but I haven’t been as committed as I should be. Her comment about going before work was the push I needed. We decided to leave for the gym the next week at 4:55 am. Luckily we live really close to the gym so we can drive, get a quick workout, and be home in time to get ready for the day. So far we’re 2 weeks in, and we haven’t missed a day yet.

We are totally each other’s gym partner, but we don’t even actually work out together. We arrive, go do our own thing, and meet in the front when the time is up. Knowing someone is waiting for me in the morning gets me out of bed. It is the motivation I need to get the consistency back.

What Is a Gym Buddy (and Why It Matters)?

A gym buddy is just what it sounds like—a workout partner who keeps you accountable and makes training more fun. Some people even call them “swolemates,” which I think is pretty funny but also kind of true. Having a ‘swolemate’ can be key to helping you keep your commitments to yourself and stay motivated.

It can be helpful to find someone who is on the same page and has similar goals as you, because you workout together and help each other improve. And you won’t be intimidated by them! On the other hand, finding someone who has more fitness experience can be beneficial too. Like a personal trainer, they can show you new exercises and workout routines.

Either way, a gym buddy doesn’t have to be someone that sticks by your side the whole time, but it can be. There have been other times when I have a gym buddy I go to classes with, lift weights with, and do cardio together. I actually work out much harder when I am with a friend. Maybe I get distracted and push myself harder or maybe I get a little competitive. Either way, my fitness improves.

Benefits of Having a Workout Partner

Here’s why I think a gym buddy can be a game-changer for increasing your fitness level:

1. You stay consistent.
   It’s harder to hit snooze or skip a session when you know someone’s counting on you. The accountability is huge.
2. You work harder.
   I push myself more when I’m with a friend. Maybe it’s friendly competition or maybe I just don’t want to fall behind, but I always work harder when there’s someone else there.
3. It’s more fun.
   The gym can feel like a grind, but laughing, talking, and hanging out with a friend makes the time fly.
4. You try new exercises.
   I’ve learned new workout styles and equipment tips just from watching what my gym partners do. It keeps things interesting and helps me mix up my routine.
5. It helps with gym anxiety.
   If you’re nervous about lifting weights or trying new classes, having a buddy by your side makes it way less intimidating.
6. It’s safer.
   If you’re lifting heavier weights, having a friend to spot you can keep you safe—and more confident to push for that extra rep.
7. You celebrate progress together.
   Hitting fitness goals feels even better when you’ve got someone there to high-five you for it.

Do you work out on your own or with a friend? What are your thoughts on gym buddies?

How to Find a Gym Buddy

If you’re looking for your own gym buddy, here’s what worked for me and what might help you too:

• Ask friends, family, or coworkers. Someone you already know might have similar goals and schedules.
• Pick someone on the same page. It helps if you have a similar fitness level or at least compatible goals so you can keep pace with each other.
• Talk to people in your classes. Group classes are a great place to meet like-minded people.
• Be upfront about your schedule. Find someone who wants to work out at the same time you do so it’s easier to stick with it.

Tips for Being a Great Gym Buddy

If you want someone to commit to being your gym partner, be the kind of buddy you’d want to train with:

• Stick to the plan. Be on time and show up when you say you will.
• Encourage each other. A simple “You’ve got this!” goes a long way when someone’s struggling through a tough set.
• Challenge each other. Push your partner (and yourself) to work hard. Try that extra rep or heavier weight.
• Keep it fun. Talk, joke around, or even make a shared workout playlist. The more you enjoy it, the easier it is to stay consistent.
• Celebrate progress. Whether it’s lifting heavier, running longer, or just not skipping a week, cheer each other on.

Do you work out on your own or with a friend? What are your thoughts on gym buddies?