I loved working out alone. No one to slow me down, no one to change things up, and no one to challenge me. Boy was I wrong. A workout buddy is a complete game changer. It only took me one run with Meighan to change my mind on running alone, and it only took me one gym sesh with Becca to make me realize killing circuits with a friend is so much better!
1. SAFETY: I don’t like running alone. Sometimes I want to run a trail or run at night, but I can’t becuase it’s not safe. Luckily, you can do that with a running partner. Two is always better than one! There are a lot of trails in the Charlotte area for running, hiking, and exploring, but they are so secluded and I just feel much safer with someone else.
2. MOTIVATION: If your friend wants to workout with you, they’ll do everything they can to motivate you to get off your butt. I wouldn’t have ran yesterday, but since I had a running buddy, I fit in four miles and it felt great. I huffed and puffed the first minute, but the runner’s high kicked in super quick and I was feeling good.
3. ACCOUNTABILITY: When I make plans with my friends to workout, I stick to them. When I make plans with myself to workout, there is no one holding me accountable or telling me that I have to go. You’re more likely to workout with a friend than by yourself.
4. CONFIDENCE: When you’re working out with a friend, you’re distracted by them. You don’t have time to look around and worry about what others are doing. I used to be so intimated by the gym! I was embarrassed of looking like a fool working out, but that all goes down the drain when you’re with a buddy. I feel so confident when my friends and I are killing our circuits.
5. LEARNING EXPERIENCE: I usually stick to what I know and what I feel comfortable with. When you workout with friends, you get to learn what they stick to and what they feel comfortable with. I have learned so many new workouts and fitness tips.
6. COURAGE TO TRY NEW THINGS: I like to stick to my little gym circuits and running, but when I’m with my friends, we go to spin classes, boot camps, kickboxing, new trails, pure barre, and all kinds of new workouts! I don’t like going to these classes alone or trying things out for the first time, but I always feel more confident with a workout buddy.
7. IT’S FUN: I dread working out sometimes, but NEVER when it’s with a friend. It’s the perfect time to catch up, laugh, and have fun! My friends and I love doing circuits at the gym together, going on SUPER LONG walks and babbling about everything. Working out with my friends is pure therapy. Getting those endorphins flowing, talking about things on your mind, and getting fit together is what keeps me motivated to keep going.
8. LIFESTYLE SUPPORT: There is nothing better than sharing the same healthy lifestyle as your friends. I had friends in the past that just wanted to drink beer, never workout, and eat tons of crappy food. That isn’t bad, unless you start falling into that lifestyle too. Having friends that share your passion for fitness and healthy eating makes your lifestyle so much more attainable and easy. My friends get just as excited for workouts, green juices, and crushing goals! You’re less likely to eat fast food and candy if your friends are eating grilled chicken and giant salads. A good workout always make us feel better and happier, and that is what we strive for.
9. BETTER FRIENDSHIPS ARE BUILT: Friends who workout together, stay together! I workout with my friends or boyfriend at least 3 times a week. We love going for walks, runs, hitting up a class, or just a circuit at the gym. Even though we LOVE those fitness dates, we enjoy just being friends and hanging out even more (outside of the yoga pants) I love the positivity that my friends have and it’s super contagious. The way they work hard to do better and be better, inspires me to do the same.
10. MORE GOALS ARE SET & CRUSHED:
I have crushed SO MANY MORE fitness goals since working out with my friends. Meighan and I already have our half marathon trip booked, we are killing our miles, and I’ve put on a lot more muscle lately. Fitness is just so much more fun when I’m with my friends and they’re the best motivation to keep crushing goals. <3
So where the heck do you find these running buddies? Well, I got really lucky with these girls. I met them through mutual friends, but you can still find workout friends. Just start going to more workout classes at your gym, join running groups, try fitness clubs on meet-up, or motivate your friends to workout with you! When your friends see you working hard towards a healthy lifestyle, it’ll inspire them to do the same. All of my friends motivate and inspire me!
Questions for you?
- Do you have a workout buddy?
- Would your rather workout with someone or by yourself?
Linda @ The Fitty says
I would LOVE to have a workout buddy–but I am a loner with no friends, haha! Ever since grade 4, I’m been pretty solitude and felt like an outcast. If I lived in the states, I’m sure I would see some regular runners and befriend them, exchange numbers, and go on weekly runs with them.
If i want a serious workout, I’ll workout alone, but I don’t mind doing lighter workouts with a friend. I sure wish you lived around the neigbourhood. When I did my 8km today, I thought of you, actually!
Taralynn McNitt says
I’m sure you have so many friends Linda! You’re such a sweet girl! Just try some fitness classes or join some meet-up groups! It helps so much!!!
I am also always impressed with your workouts!:) Keep going girlfriend!
Linda @ the Fitty says
I didn’t think you ever took notice of me among all your readers, Tara! It makes me really flattered, thanks so much. I actually find inspiration from YOUR workouts.
I hope to join the gym perhaps sometime this summer and find a squad 🙂
Jess says
These are perfect reasons to have a workout buddy! I really wish I had one. A little over a year ago, my fiance and I were able to go to the gym together and we motivated each other especially when one of us didn’t really want to go. I actually hate the gym, but I would usually do a 30 minute workout at home and then go to the gym with him and walk on the treadmill at least. With his work schedule now, we can’t go together anymore. I’ve learned that I need accountability. The past few weeks, I’ll start a workout program on Monday and then convince myself on Tuesday that I can wait until Wednesday and before I know it, it’s Friday again.
I’m not sure if I enjoy working out alone or with someone more, but I do know that I at least need an accountability partner and someone who has the same goal to be active.
Taralynn McNitt says
Maybe you and your boyfriend can work on a schedule where you can workout together once or twice a week, even if it’s on the weekend?
Great you have a workout program you stick to though! Thats impressive.
It’s always great to have someone support your goals, but if you’re determined, you can do it alone as well! xo
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
I still have yet to find a workout buddy! None of my close friends really exercise, and the ones who do live quite far away. Fingers crossed I’ll meet someone compatible in 2017!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Maybe you can inspire them to get out there with them! 🙂
XO
Emily says
I would much rather work out with a buddy!! no doubt! I’ve had one buddy over the years who was awesome to work out with, but she’s on a different schedule now 🙁 so that’s put a dent in our work out routine. But we are hoping to figure something out. I will always get up early in the morning if I know I have to meet someone, rather than rely on myself to go alone! You’re blog is an awesome motivator tool though, so workout buddy or not, please keep writing! It’s so good to know a healthy lifestyle is always possible. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Oh an 🙁 That definitely stinks! Hopefully you’ll be able to find someone to workout with soon, or keep going to fitness classes! Maybe weekend workouts with her?
Thank you for the kind words about my blog!!! Means a lot and I love the motivation to keep writing! xo
Rachel Sparks says
I used to feel the same way about working out alone but that has changed for me too. My coworker recently became my gym buddy and I have another friend who goes with me to yoga class and on hikes. So much more fun and easy to stay motivated:) it feels good to be surrounded by strong and inspiring women!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s crazy how much motivation it is to have someone to workout with! I love that my friends motivate and inspire me! I feel so grateful.
Emma says
I have a couple! One of my girlfriends lifts with me one day a week (out of the 3 I go) and my bf workouts with me sometimes when he’s in town. The rest I do in my own. I definitely like having a buddy better but it also helps to update my bf through text (he also programs my lifting sessions for me) because it gives me an extra level of support for a solo workout. Hopefully I’ll have more buddies eventually!
Taralynn McNitt says
That is so great! I love that your boyfriend is so involved in your fitness. I think that is so important in a relationship. Kyle and I definitely live the same lifestyle and it makes everything so much easier.
Jamie says
1. My boyfriend and I like to go on long walks together or hit the gym. I agree, it’s nice to work out with someone else so that you don’t have to worry about staying safe alone (especially at night). Plus, I kind of like hanging out with my boyfriend 😉 so it’s a win-win for both of us.
2. I still like working out alone, but I of course enjoy the joint workouts. For the most part I do workout alone though.
Taralynn McNitt says
I love that. Walks are the best, especially with your boyfriend! It’s fun and safe!
It’s great to do a mixture of both! 🙂 As long as you’re doing them! xo
Christy says
I don’t have a workout buddy, but you’ve totally inspired me to find one! (Especially for Motivation 🙂 I received my 1st Blue Apron shipment Friday and am trying it this week! Yay! So Excited! Thanks for all the wonderful tips!!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes, go out there and find one fore sure! 🙂
I can’t wait to hear what you think about Blue Apron!! woo:)
GUEST says
You and your friends look great! Such great role models for friendships.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you! xo
Brooklyn says
I don’t have a workout buddy at the moment but I’m trying to convince my boyfriend!
I workout so much better with a buddy!
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
I’m sure you can inspire your boyfriend to get out and workout with you! 🙂
Diane says
I workout with my sister 3 days a week. It keeps us both accountable and gives us opportunity to spend time together- which is the best part! I love your posts , recipes and motivation! Thank you!!
Taralynn McNitt says
That is so great! You guys are kicking butt.
& thank you so much!
Shannen says
Loved this post! Thank you for all of your healthy/fitness/motivating posts. Every time I read them I feel like getting up and working out or eating a salad! Haha
My goal this year is to start running. I’ve tried before but gave up prematurely. I don’t have a workout buddy – unless you count my dogs! But I’m hoping that once I can actually run, I will find someone to run with that will help keep with it. When it comes to actually working out, I’m so sf conscious that I’d rather do it by myself in the comfort of my own home.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank You Shannen!
Love that they can inspire!
DOGS COUNT!:) Mr. Grumples is the BEST workout buddy. We love our miles together. You should definitely start slow when you try running for the first time! I did a running post that might be helpful (post is on the sidebar)
Maybe try to find a friend who has the same running goals and you guys can work together!
XO
Carrie says
I don’t currently have a work out buddy. I think I am imtimidated a little and pretty much think I am the slowest runner ever and don’t want my friends to have to slow down because of me.
I have run 2 5ks in the short time I have started running and my sister in law, who is a half marathoner, ran those with me. I LOVED it! Although she had to slow down her pace, I ran faster and had much better runs. If I could find someone on the same fitness plan as me I would love to have one!!
Taralynn McNitt says
The more you get out there with your friends, the better you’ll get at running! Push yourself to just try it once! You may like it. Gotta break out of the bubble of intimidation.
I actually do not mind slowing down my pace while running and I enjoy the run so much better when it’s slow! I’m sure she LOVES the company. Try out some running groups!
liuye says
I don’t have a workout buddy now. I did go to gym last year , so I did have so many fellows whom work out with. but then I left there and move to a new department. I will try to find new workout buddy! That’s help me a loy.
Would your rather workout with someone or by yourself? jogging . walking and yoga , i would like by myself ,someone just keep chatting with me, which is really botherd me ,
but when i go hiking .mountain-climbing. go to gym or do some fun workouts, i do like do it with someone.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi There!
Yes, finding workout buddies can help a ton! Some workouts are simply better with a partner!
Hannah says
I don’t have a real workout buddy, but I count Cassey Ho (Blogilates) as my buddy as I do PIIT! I was on a soccer team for years, and it was awesome to workout with other people! I would love to find a workout buddy to join me for my sessions!
Taralynn McNitt says
Sometimes doing videos and having someone guide you does feel like you have someone there pushing you! Maybe you can find a local public soccer team to join! Great way to find a workout buddy:) I have a couple friends in Charlotte that joined a soccer league!
Lauren says
I’ve started going to the gym with my friends. First I didn’t want to go with them, but I’m so glad I did.
The time goes by so much faster when you are talking. I think even faster than with music.
I do prefer going on runs by myself. I get stressed out when someone runs faster than me and I can’t keep up.
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes! It’s the best. I was also hesitant at first.
I totally agree. Talking and babbling makes the time go much faster, but sometimes I’m having such a good time, I don’t even want to leave! We are there for two or three hours sometimes.
I used to think running by myself was better, but that was because I was running with someone who wanted to sprint and then quit after the first mile, or they just didn’t have the same pace as me. You have to find that perfect partner. Meighan and I are ALWAYS running the same pace and we never sprint ahead or slow way down!
Nicky Smith says
Great post once again! I definitely think having a workout buddy can help motivate you to actually get your booty to the gym! haha, especially since I’m a little competitive, it also allows you to push yourself. I’ve been doing a lot of yoga and following a diet program that has been giving me great results. This person made a pretty good review about it, feel free to check it out(:
Taralynn McNitt says
LOL definitely!
It’s great you found a plan that works!
xo
Jordan says
Awesome post Taralynn — I definitely have workout buddies that challenge me to workout more and differently than I would myself. We also try new classes and don’t feel as ridiculous together as we would alone — or at least we can laugh at ourselves together if we do! But even with a workout buddy, sometimes a solo run allows me to reconnect with my inner thoughts, so I definitely need some alone workouts as well. It’s all about balance!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Jordan!
Workout buddies are the best, especially when they are your best friends!
I totally agree with feeling a little LESS ridiculous when you have your friends around. I think some solo runs are great to clear your thoughts, but my friends and I definitely don’t talk to each other during our runs. We are headphone junkies.
BALANCE is key.
Ayla says
Oh my, Becca looks so good! (Okay, I’ve written this a dozen times and there’s no way to make it sound less creepy, but it’s true, she looks fit and healthy and overall just good!)
It’s really nice that you have these workout buddies. I’ve been sitting on my butt for far too long now, so when we move to our new place next month I’ll go out and find me some buddies! Thanks for the motivation to go out and find them!
Taralynn McNitt says
Not creepy at all. SHE’S KILLLLLLING IT.
Definitely go out there and find those workout buddies! 🙂 It always helps, especially when you’re living in a new place!
Anonymous says
When is your birthday? Did you not celebrate?
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol, I don’t really want to celebrate since I’m turning 26 this year BUT, my birthday is January 31st.
Emily Weir says
I unfortunately do not have a workout buddy, but would love one. None of my friends are as active or focused on staying fit as I am, so I haven’t found anyone yet that’s willing to hit the gym with me at 6:00am. Luckily my dad still runs long distances with me so I’m not alone on half-training runs, but I know that can’t last forever. Wish I had a support team though…I probably would hit snooze on my alarm a lot less!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hopefully you can inspire them by convincing them to just do ONE workout with you:) OR get them to go on walks, hikes, or something fun. 6:00AM is early, lol but there is probably someone out there that would join you! I think it’s so cool that your dad runs with you!
Linda @ The Fitty says
Where do you reside? YOu and I sound like we’re in similar situations! I’ve always wanted a sisterhood group of girls for fitness.
Emily Weir says
Florida!
Linda @ the Fitty says
Ah I’m all the way in Canada.
Candice says
You and your friends always seem so happy! I am going to convince my friend to get their butts in the gym with me instead of our typical brewery nights and cocktail hours. Thank you for inspiring me always.
Taralynn McNitt says
You guys will feel so much better once you get the workout routine down! You can always do cocktail hour and brewery nights:) Just add some fitness in there with them!! xo xo xo
Rachel @ Better LIVIN says
I agree! I’ve just learned this semester how much more I enjoy workouts (except runs- I need to do those alone) with a buddy! It’s so fun to have someone to laugh with while you sweat!
http://www.betterlivin.ca
Taralynn McNitt says
Laughing burns more calories anyways! 🙂
Sometimes you need to run alone, understandable! I am now addicting to running with Meighan though, and it’s bad when I don’t feel like running because she’s not there! I’ve been spoiled.
Linda @ the Fitty says
I’d be your buddy, haha. 🙂 I’m generally a slow runner and if I were to run with friends is be to help me runner slightly faster.
Carly says
Love this post, Taralynn! I graduated from college in May and moved to a new city in August. In college I had a ton of built-in workout buddies: teammates, classmates, and friends that all shared an interest in working out. I just joined a gym in NYC (finally!) but am finding it more and more challenging to get my butt there before or after work. I miss my college workout buddies who would bang on my door and text me “get your ass outside!” at 6am. I do have several friends in the city, but none of them belong to the same gym as me. Do you have any advice for finding a workout buddy in my city? I’m not a shy girl but I am somewhat intimidated to just go up to a stranger at the gym and strike up a conversation. Thanks again for this post–I love it! You are a constant stream of inspiration for me! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Carly!
It’s crazy how a change in environment/lifestyle and effect your fitness motivation! Just keep going to classes and the gym and you might find someone who you can workout with and that person may turn into a good friend 🙂 There are tons of groups on meet-up that you can join! Get to know the members and put yourself out there. Maybe even start your own meet-up group of new people in the city looking to get fit! I bet so many can relate to you! It’s a big city with so many potential workout buddies!:) xo xo
Carly says
Thanks so much! 🙂 that’s great advice!
Heather @ Polyglot Jot says
About 98% of the time I do at-home workouts alone. It’s free and I can get it done no matter the weather. But, every now and again I like to do something with a friend or attend a group exercise class. I find that doing that in a group setting every once in a while gets me fired up to keep up with my at home workouts. I wholeheartedly agree on all of your reasons!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s great you’re in the routine of a home workout! I always have a hard time finishing because I get so bored. I love that you do some fitness classes too:) Changing up the energy is great!
Carissa says
Do you live with your boyfriend?
Taralynn McNitt says
I do not. I have my own place 🙂
Dorothy says
I’m stuck in a rut and needing to find a new workout partner. My best friend and workout partner moved away a little over a year ago and I haven’t found a new workout partner yet.
My other friends don’t really work out, so they are always cancelling on me and eventually just stop working out with me all together.
I’d like to join a fitness group in my town or something, but I also just had a baby a little less than 2 months ago and I’m super out of shape now- I’m afraid I won’t be able to keep up with a group of strangers that are all super fit. I also have a very limited time window of when I can work out due to work and the baby.
Any advice for finding a workout partner that will be dedicated but also more at my current level, or at least patient with me while I get back in shape?
Taralynn McNitt says
So sorry to hear that Dorothy!
Have you thought about joining some local fitness classes? The energy is always high in the room! The more and more you go to class, the more you’ll be able to keep up! No one at a gym is there to judge you, and most of the people in fitness classes are all about positivity and encouragement. You have to get out of the intimidated mindset or you’ll just stay in that rut. The more and more you go, you’ll become so much more confident and you’ll feel amazing.
Dorothy says
I haven’t thought about a class. I don’t have a gym membership anymore because finances have been tight, but it might be worth it to try and move things around to find money to join a class!
Melanie says
Love your fitness posts!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!
Jane says
I wish I had a workout buddy 🙁
Taralynn McNitt says
You can always find one!:) or inspire one of your friends!
Harriet Adlam says
All of your point are so right, Especially the Lifestyle support is a big one for me, especially when going out with friends I always get looked at when ordering a salad, but I really don’t care anymore I am doing it for me..
My current running buddy is my dog, it might seem funny but I am pretty sure she gets a runners high as well ? . I go to crossfit 3 times a week and it’s like the whole class feeds off each other’s Energy / motivation to keep going, and you feel amazing afterwards.
I have been trying to persuade my work colleague to come walking with me, as she wants to loose some weight for her wedding, I hope by asking her every day she will give in an come with me. I find that if you stick to a regime (walking) for 30days it becomes habit. Thanks for another great post.
Taralynn McNitt says
As long as you’re doing it of you! 🙂
I love that your dog is your running buddy! & group classes are like having a million workout buddies!
& I 1000000000000% agree that regimes become habits!
Brittney says
I agree with you on all ten! I recently left a group of friends that loved to party and eat fast food everyday. I gained almost fifteen pounds in a year hanging out with them and when I joined my current gym I met a group of workout friends and I feel so much happier!
Taralynn McNitt says
So great that you’re feeling happier!! xo xo
Christina says
Your running is so impressive! Way to go Meighan and Taralynn!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!! 🙂
Ali Morga Brina says
Hi there!
Do you have a workout buddy? Yeah! Lately my sister in law and I are going to run and we are doing some straight workouts at home also.
Would your rather workout with someone or by yourself? I always enjoyed working out alone. It was peaceful for me going for a run alone and think about everything and focus on my thoughts but this year I started to do my workouts with my sister in law and we are motivatin each other and it’s really helpful and funny. Also, my trainning becomes more enjoyable.
Xo
Danielle says
1. Do you currently have a workout buddy?
I WISH I had a workout buddy! I seem to be the only person that I know (personally know) who is in to fitness and a healthy lifestyle. All of my friends are very in to going out and being content with their life, which is totally fine but I seem to crave more out of my life.
2. Would you rather workout with someone or by yourself?
I would honestly MUCH rather workout with someone than by myself because I love to be pushed. I also love the accountability and support of a workout buddy. I have had friends who get excited about the gym because they see me going and then a month in they quit. I do my best to be very positive and motivating but they just don’t seem to come around 🙁
Elisa says
Hi!
1. Do you have a workout buddy?
I go to the gym with a colleague once a week and we’re in the same dance class. Another colleague is alaways trying to convince me to go running with him but we clearly don’t have the same level so I always say no 😀
2. Would your rather workout with someone or by yourself?
I prefer running alone, but I like to practice other sports with people. It’s hard to find someone who runs at my pace!
Taralynn McNitt says
Don’t say no next time! Have her run with you at YOUR PACE! I love doing that with friends 🙂
Sports is so much fun and great workout! I think I’m going to look into some fun leagues this summer! You can always be the pacer with your friends!
Richard says
You girls are doing great!
Frank says
yes to all of these!