How to Find a Fitness Partner

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

20 Jun 2008 05:30 AM

We've talked about fitness partners before. The simple truth is some people enjoy working out on their own (I'm one of those) and some people really need and do better when they have a fitness partner to motivate and keep them focused. Now, truth be told, I've only had a fitness partner twice before. The longest partner was named Leslie and she and I worked out together for about 9 months. She was fantastic. She kept me on my toes, she challenged me to push a little further each time and she could make me laugh when I felt like I couldn't go any further.

Fitness partners are absolutely wonderful. They cheer you on, they help you stay focused and they support you in all of your activities. You do the same for them. But where do you find a fitness partner? You can find them in lots of places; you just have to know where to look.

• Your Gym - When you join a gym in your neighborhood, chances are a lot of the people who are going there are looking for the same things you are. They are also likely to be located in your area. Many gyms have post boards where you can see others who are looking for fitness partners and it's a great way to hook up
• Your Workplace - Check out the folks at the office. Your co-workers may not be able to hit the local gym with you, but they might be more than willing to do a lunch time walk or more. It's a great way to get to know your fellow employees or even have a quick brainstorming session while you exercise, efficiently killing two birds with one stone
• Local Volunteer Events - Our homeowners association hosts a yearly walk every spring. There are other events in the area including the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Attending these types of events can provide you with a wide pool of potential fitness partners.
• Craigslist - Seriously, check out online sources from Weight Watchers to Craigslist. You can find like-minded folks who are looking for a fitness partner too. Always take caution when meeting with someone online for the first time.
• Your Family - My daughter is a fun fitness partner, she never lets me forget a planned bike ride or a walk. She's also a lot of fun to chat with when we're out and about. Your husband, wife, mother, mother-in-law, even the dog all make for fun partners to get you out of the house and moving.

Where did you find your fitness partner?

Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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Lisa P (24008) 30 Jun 2008 03:22 PM

I've had some great training partners over the years but I've had lousy ones too. The good ones were very good and pushed me to work out harder than I ever would alone. They also made workouts a blast. The bad ones were a major energy drain. I found I hated working out just because I couldn't stand being with them - and dumping a training partner that you work with or hang out with a lot is a real hassle.

The last one soured me to the point where I haven't even tried finding a new training partner and that was 7 years ago!

Pennywise (391) 01 Jul 2008 07:31 AM

I'm over weight and my doctor has said that I need to lose it. I can't do it alone. I really think I need a personnal trainer 24/7 HA, LOL! like that's going to happen. Help! I've had friends come over and walk with me but it never lasts. I start a good menu routine and it gets boring. I need someone who is more serious about the plan than me!