Work Out Buddies

Part of my weight loss plan includes (gasp!) EXERCISE! Blech.

I am very fortunate to have a partner in weight loss crime. My sister is also doing Weight Watchers. She and I both tend to keep each other on the straight and narrow as far as food is concerned. Together, we've shed over 100 lbs! Woo hoo for us!

This past summer, a friend of mine invited me to her gym. I went with her a couple of times as a guest. I enjoyed it so much, I joined, then my sister joined. It has been a great experience and I actually look forward to going to the gym.

There are good reasons to have a gym or workout buddy.

First, they help to make the time go by quicker. I am able to carry on a semi-coherent conversation while on the exercise bike. After a while, exercise brain sets in and I do more listening than talking. While I'm not going to be doing any business dealings, it is a good place for light-hearted conversation.

Next, they keep you on motivated and on track. It's harder to back out of going to the gym if someone else is a part of the plan. In return for them keeping you accountable, you get to keep them accountable as well (but, be sure to have a back up plan if the other person can't make it).

Lastly, your workout buddy can be an objective reminder of how far you've progressed in your journey. "Remember when we could only run 3 feet? Now, we're running 3 miles!" You can celebrate milestones and achievements together.

Sometimes it can be a challenge to find a good exercise buddy. No one wants to workout with a "Debbie Downer." Be sure to find someone who has the same commitment, similar fitness level and
is willing to contribute to the team. They should respond positively to your encouragement and not put down the effort that you're making.

I have two workout buddies. I am truly a lucky (if not tired!) girl.