Today I want to share the benefits and funefits of working out with a friend. Just so we are on the same page funefits are the fun benefits.
Accountability
The first benefit of hitting the gym with a friend is accountability. This past week I went running with a friend several times. The first time we were barely running a mile but day by day we added laps until we hit two miles. Now every time we hit the gym and decide to run we keep each other accountable to run a full 2 miles no matter what. As I am editing this post we have accomplished running 5 miles. In this journey of working out together we are learning that its mind over body.
Another tip to keep each other accountable is to calendar the time you plan to workout with each other. Try to pick a certain number of times you want to work out a week and even check up on each other on the days you don’t.
Encouragement
Another benefit is encouragement. When you are with your friends you can tell them they are doing great and they are on fire and they can finish strong! And vice versa. I have been declaring encouraging phrases the last several times I have gone running with my friends. Working out is a mental game, your body can always do more than you think so having a friend to encourage you can help keep the mental game strong. When we are running our last lap I say things like “We are strong” “We our God’s temple” “We can do all things through Christ who gives me strength” “We are able”
Fun
Also it’s just fun! Connecting with friends in a healthy way is great. I love hearing about my friends day and new things they are up to. Yes sitting down at a cute coffee shop is always enjoyable however pursuing health with friends brings forth a different type of joy.
WAYS TO WORK OUT WITH FRIENDS:
Find a class you both enjoy. I like to attend to yoga, barre or HIIT. I have even tried a zumba class. Or maybe y’all want to do cardio together. You can run, bike, swim. Learn how to do a new skill together. I have some friends who recently learned how to belay so they can go rock climbing together. Or maybe you want to learn a new sport. You can even try a circuit at the gym or making up your workouts in a zone room. Whatever is your cup of tea.
Maybe you don’t want to hit the gym, that’s perfectly fine. You can go on nature walks, run outdoors or find parks with workout circuits. There are also so many quality videos that provide a great workout. At home workouts I enjoy include Boho Beautiful Yoga workouts and 21 day fix work out videos. There are a plethora of apps, youtube channels and dvds that you can subscribe to or purchase.
Today I encourage you to call a friend and subscribe to your local gym.
