Working out is excellent for the body. However, it can be a challenge to remain motivated mentally and physically. Thus, some may consider working out with a friend. Is it a good idea to have a friend as your workout partner?
Why Consider Working Out With a Buddy?
Working out with a buddy changes the game in motivation, especially if that’s an area where you struggle. Workout buddies will raise your level of accountability, provide someone to go through tough challenges with, create a support system, and form built-in encouragement. For many, it’s worth it.
What Are the Benefits of Working Out With a Friend?
There are several excellent aspects to working out with a friend. They are ideal workout partners, especially if you’ve grown together in fitness for a long time.
Some of the benefits of working out with a buddy include the following:
- Increased accountability: A close friend means automatic accountability. You know each other and can push forward as a unit.
- Fun: It’s always fun to exercise with a friend, especially if they have a quality sense of humor.
- Time management: A close individual will help you manage time well in the gym and at home.
- Healthy competition: With a close friend, you can have healthy competition to push each other towards your fitness goals.
What Are the Cons of Working Out With a Friend?
Unfortunately, there are some downsides to picking your friend as your workout partner. They are only human like you, so there are bound to be some issues.
Here are some cons of exercising with a friend:
- Distracted socializing: Your friend may want to socialize the entire time, distracting you from working out and wasting your time.
- Different fitness abilities: You and your friend may have different fitness capabilities, creating variation in everything from exercises done to the length of time working out.
- Pressure: Friendships can create unnecessary pressure in a workout environment, especially if there are high expectations.
- Excess competition: Competitive friends could get too competitive and have it impact their dynamic.
I have been an ace certified personal trainer for over 15 years. Other certifications include kettlebells, TRX, battling ropes, Vpr, yoga fit, AFFA group fitness and more. I have two children who love the gym as much as I do.