05Jan

The Science Behind Why a Workout Buddy Matters

In-Shape | 05 Jan, 2024 | Wellness Tips & Trends | Return|

Motivation Boost: 

Ever felt the gravitational pull of your couch when you planned to exercise? We've all been there. According to a study published in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine, having a friend to exercise with can increase your motivation and commitment to a workout routine. It's like having a personal cheerleader, minus the pom-poms. 

 

The Social Connection: 

Working out with a friend turns the treadmill into a social hub. The American Council on Exercise suggests that social interaction during exercise can enhance your overall experience. So, instead of staring at your reflection in the gym mirror, why not share a laugh or two with a friend? 

 

Friendly Competition: 

Nothing gets the heart pumping like a little friendly competition. Researchers at Kansas State University found that individuals who exercised with a partner experienced an increase in intensity and duration of their workout. It's the classic case of trying to out-plank your friend or run that extra mile. The result? A more challenging and rewarding workout. 

 

Accountability Matters: 

We've all been guilty of hitting the snooze button on our fitness goals. But when you have a workout buddy waiting for you, suddenly, hitting the club becomes a non-negotiable appointment. The Journal of Social Sciences reports that people are more likely to stick to their exercise routine when they have a reliable workout partner. It's the unspoken pact of accountability that keeps you both on track. 

 

Positive Reinforcement: 

Celebrating small wins is crucial for long-term success. A study in the British Journal of Health Psychology suggests that having a workout buddy provides a source of positive reinforcement. Whether it's hitting a new personal record or mastering a challenging yoga pose, sharing these victories with a friend boosts your confidence and keeps you coming back for more. 

It’s clear that a workout buddy is more than just a fun companion at the club. So, the next time you're debating whether to go solo or recruit a fitness sidekick, remember that having someone by your side can make the journey a whole lot sweeter. Refer a friend today and you BOTH get FIT CLUB Rewards points; start lifting, laughing, and conquering those fitness goals together! 

About the Author

Related

In-Shape’s Group Fitness: 2021 Wrapped

In-Shape’s Group Fitness: 2021 Wrapped

2021 was a year full of uncertainty. But one thing we knew for sure this year? In-Shape members LOVE...

Read More >
Healthier Sugar Alternatives You Need to Try Now

Healthier Sugar Alternatives You Need to Try Now

You might not know it, but almost everything you’re consuming contains a certain amount of sugar. F...

Read More >
Fall Asleep Fast With These Breathing Exercises

Fall Asleep Fast With These Breathing Exercises

If you find yourself staring up at your bedroom ceiling struggling to fall asleep, you’re not alone...

Read More >
Top 10 Foods That Help Fight Cancer 

Top 10 Foods That Help Fight Cancer 

When it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, diet plays a crucial role. Certain foods have been...

Read More >
10 Benefits of Battle Ropes

10 Benefits of Battle Ropes

Get your muscles moving in new ways with a high-intensity, total-body workout thanks to the Battle R...

Read More >
Common Gym Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

Common Gym Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

Showing up to the club and getting your workout in really is half the battle, but that doesn’t mean...

Read More >