Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Sometimes getting to the Student Recreation Fitness Center after a long — or even short — day is impossible. You’d rather stay at home and watch Real World, or even better, drink yourself into an oblivion. If you had a workout partner, however, it might just give you the extra motivation you need to skip the TV and potato chips and head to the gym.
Having a workout partner increases the likelihood of going to the gym because you have a commitment. If you don’t have that commitment, you’ll give-in to the first thought of relaxation.
According to realbuzz.com, the benefits of a workout partner are endless. Not only does it improve your time by giving you the extra edge to push harder, but you’re also getting in social time, which makes it more fun. Any exercise program that is fun will last much longer than one that doesn’t engage you.
You can also use partner workout sessions to increase the intensity of your workouts by being competitive. I know no guy likes to be shown up at the gym. If you’re doing a bench press and your workout partner can bench 25 pounds more than you, you’re probably going to add a little more than usual to compete. The same goes for cardio. I know when I’m running with a friend I run a lot faster than I do when I’m alone. Most people can go for a longer duration when they have someone with them.
You should keep in mind a few things while choosing a workout partner. Aim for someone who is around the same fitness level as you, or higher. There’s nothing worse than having to drop your workout to a lower level just to cater to someone else’s needs. Be serious about time commitments you set up, and stick to them. If you plan to meet every Monday and Wednesday at 3, and the other person doesn’t show up, harass them until they do. It may be annoying and a pain, but in the end it will pay off for both parties. Keep the workout fun — talking during breaks and when time permits — but don’t be the lazy gossipers who just sit at a bench for 30 minutes talking before even picking up a weight. The concept of a workout partner is for motivation, not laziness.
You won’t always be able to workout with someone every time you want to workout. For times when I workout alone, I rely heavily on music. As most people on campus are, I’m addicted to my iPod. Some people don’t realize how much music can affect performance, but I am a firm believer that it can. When I hear a good song or turn up my music, I get a second wind. These are perfect for all those times you just feel like giving up
Whichever option you chose, add some excitement into your typical workout routine.
-Carter is a Shawnee sophomore in health, sport and exercise science.
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