Finding motivation can sometimes be the biggest barrier to achieving a consistent exercise routine. Most often when we speak about motivation we are talking about motivation that is self-driven, meaning it comes from within. This is called internal motivation. Something that is important to note is internal motivation can come and go and can be stronger or less apparent in different areas of our lives. For example internal motivation to do well in university and study for exams maybe very high but internal motivation to go to the gym three times a week after you have finished your lecture might be very low and a more difficult task to accomplish. Luckily motivation does not always have to come from within to result in lifestyle change. Motivation that comes from outside sources is called external motivation and can motivate us to achieve goals. When it comes to exercise, external motivation in the form of a training partner can be extremely beneficial. Having someone who knows what your goals are, potentially shares similar goals and at the end of the day wants you to be successful and happy can be a huge source of motivation. In this blog post I explore the benefits of having a training partner, and things to consider when picking a training partner to join you for your next session at the gym.
- A Training Partner Keeps You Accountable
Accountability is a large factor in staying on track with a goal. If no one knows you are working towards something, it can become easy to slack off. A training partner can keep you accountable to get your workouts in and train hard each session. You will have likely shared with your training partner why this goal is important to you, and they can remind you of this when you are feeling discouraged or unmotivated. Since your training partner is likely a friend, they will know the best way to encourage you back to keep you on track.
2. A Training Partner Keeps You Consistent
Consistency is extremely important when making lifestyle changes. Having a date with a training partner is like having a weekly appointment with the gym. In this case meeting up with your training partner can be helpful if you have motivation to workout but it wanes on certain days, for example towards the end of the week. As well, most of the time we don’t want to bail on our friends or let them down. The same way you are meeting your training partner at the gym, they are planning on meeting up with you. So knowing that you cancelling on your training partner might result in them missing a workout, can prevent you from skipping out on your workouts.
3. A Training Partner Can Help You Maintain Proper Form
Working out safely is extremely important. Using a mirror to monitor your form is great when training on your own, but even better is to have someone watching your form for you. The ideal option is having your certified personal trainer coach you through training sessions to teach proper form and technique. Click here to find out about private personal training. But when you cannot meet your trainer, utilizing a training partner that can spot you on those last few reps is a great way to take your workout to the next level.
4. A Training Partner Keeps Your Workouts Fun and Intense 
Having a friend with you while you workout can automatically make things in the gym more enjoyable. As well, two heads are better than one. Often each person has certain exercises or workouts they enjoy doing. These can be shared between training partners, introducing new workout ideas and keeping things new and fun. Plus, training partners can push each other to train at an intensity that is hard to achieve when working out on your own. Those encouraging words, or a little tough love can give you that push to crank out a few extra reps or run that much faster, improving your workout and future results overall.
What to Look for In a Training Partner
So how do you choose a training partner? The first things to consider are fitness goals and ability. To get the most out of your time together it is helpful if both people are at a similar fitness level. This allows you to train in a similar way and same level of intensity. The next thing to consider is your schedules. In this area it is good to be flexible, training at a different time of day than you are used to is a small sacrifice when you have the benefit of training with a partner. Lastly make sure you pick a training partner that has a positive attitude and can motivate you. We all get down from time to time, and a training partner that can recognize this and knows what to say or do to lift you up, can be a big tool in achieving your goals.
Now that you have the scoop on the benefits of a training partner, who do you think you would choose to meet you for your next workout? Share this post with them and schedule your workout!