With a little help from your friends…

Do you have a workout buddy? Here are a few reasons why you should…

We have spoken before about motivation when working out, as well as the tips and tricks we have shared previously, probably the biggest is to find a workout buddy.  Harvard researcher Daniel Lieberman comments “nothing works as effectively as exercising with friends.” Liberman’s goes on to say “for the vast majority of us, it’s hard to exercise and we all have fundamental instincts to avoid unnecessary activity.” So, what can we do to get around these natural instincts?

Whilst we’re thankful that there is some science behind us not wanting to get sweaty with a workout, there are things we can put into place to make it a little easier, Lieberman and lots of other health professionals, suggest finding a workout buddy which can help in many ways.

The mutual encouragement from a workout pal, can increase your motivation, which will push you to work harder, and have some friendly competition at the same time. Naturally, with a partner your confidence increases.  This could support you in being a little braver to try new activities.  It’s easier to laugh along with someone else as you get to grips with a new skill (but its also cool to laugh on your own too!)

Working out with a friend can give you some supportive accountability.  Research shows that you are more likely to start and complete a workout, if you know you are meeting a friend.  You don’t want to let them down, so you’re less likely to cancel on yourself and on them.

There are numerous positives to working out with others, along with the physical health benefits, your mental health will be given a boost too; reducing stress and improving your overall quality of life.  The Journal of American Osteopathic Association released some findings from their study which showed that working out in a group lowers stress by 26% compared to those who worked out alone.

With a reported 80% of American adults not getting the recommended amount of exercise, maybe its time to recruit a workout buddy.  As well as the increased motivation, encouragement and accountability, working out with a friend is a safer approach to exercise. In situations such as running alone, lifting weights at the gym or swimming, if anything didn’t go to plan, it’s good to know that there is a friendly face who can raise the alarm or help you if needed.

Working out with others also brings more variety into your life.  Along with trying new activities, you can aim to broaden your connections outside of work, or away from the kids.  You can have a good gossip, or discuss new topics, as well as gaining a different perspective on some of your life issues if needed.  Best of all, you will have someone championing you all the way.  Depending on the targets you have set, if you complete that 5k or Tough Mudder or achieve a personal best, your workout buddy will be sure to celebrate your successes with you.

It’s important to have a positive approach Liberman states “It doesn’t help to make people feel bad.  We need to be compassionate.” Working out is challenging and we won’t always follow the plan, even with our buddy there to support us, but it’s important that there is no judgement, only support from those you chose to exercise with.  Finding your people for some healthy, positive interactions can be such a rewarding social experience as well as the numerous health benefits you will gain.

There are many team sports, gym classes and an abundance of PTs across the UAE.  Even if you fancy a brisk walk, or something that can be completed alone, we would recommend you finding a friend, or group who you can have fun with whilst you workout.  You’re more likely to sustain your exercise plan and work towards your goals with a little help from your friends.