5 Reasons You Should Work Out with a Friend

This article is written by Darren Cuomo, WAIS High Performance Scholarship Athlete and Australian Wheelchair Rugby Player.

Exercising with a friend can be a fun and motivating way to achieve your fitness goals. Whether you're hitting the gym, going for a run, or taking a yoga class together, having a workout buddy can enhance the experience. Our venues offer multiple programs and incentives to encourage collaboration and bringing your friends into your fitness journey, such as Mates Rates promotions throughout the year, Refer a Friend and other programs.

Whether it’s through your time spent at the gym, or simply helping get you there in the first place, here’s a look at the some of the pros of working out with a friend.

Increased Motivation and Accountability

One of the most significant advantages of working out with a friend is the added motivation. When you commit to exercising with someone, you’re less likely to skip your session. You have someone to hold you accountable, and you may feel more responsible for showing up, especially if your friend is relying on you. This added layer of accountability can be a powerful motivator, particularly on days when your energy or enthusiasm is low.

Social Support and Fun

Exercising with a friend can make the experience more enjoyable and social. Instead of seeing your workout as a chore, you might look forward to it as an opportunity to catch up and bond over shared goals. This sense of camaraderie can turn an otherwise mundane activity into a more fun and rewarding experience.

Friendly Competition

A little healthy competition can go a long way in pushing you to improve. Having a workout buddy often brings out the competitive side, motivating both people to challenge themselves and go beyond their limits. Whether it's trying to beat each other's time, reps, or distance in a way that boosts performance and isn’t at a detriment to your body, a friendly rivalry can add an extra layer of excitement to your workout routine.

Safety and Support

If you’re lifting weights or doing an exercise that requires technique, having a friend around can provide a safety net. They can spot you, offer tips, or help correct your form, reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, if you’re doing high-intensity workouts or activities like running in less familiar areas, having a friend can provide a sense of security.

Variety and New Ideas

A workout buddy can introduce you to new exercises or routines that you might not have considered on your own. They may have different experiences, backgrounds, and knowledge when it comes to fitness, giving you fresh ideas to mix up your routine. Trying something new together can keep your workouts interesting and prevent boredom.

Working out with a friend can be a motivating and enjoyable experience that enhances your fitness journey. From boosting accountability and motivation to providing social support, the benefits are clear.

To make the most of your workout buddy arrangement, it’s essential to communicate openly about your goals and preferences. If you can align your fitness objectives and support each other in a balanced way, working out with a friend can become a rewarding and sustainable part of your routine., the most important thing is to stay consistent and enjoy the process, whether you’re working out alone or with a friend!