Pair up with a buddy for that extra motivation to exercise

Parallel squat: Hold on to your buddy's hands (or wrists) and squat together. Stay down for a few seconds and come back up. Then try holding only the right hand (let the other hand hang loose) and repeat the exercise. — Photos: Pexels

Working out in twos is always more fun than exercising alone.

Exercise is hard work, and let’s be realistic, even the most hardworking of us cannot be motivated 100% of the time.

Having a workout partner helps break the monotony of solo workouts as partners can switch up routines, keeping things fresh and interesting.

Sometimes, we all get stuck in a rut doing the same routines over and over again, but exploring new things are often less intimidating with a friend.

Sharing the experience often leads to more laughter, which can boost your mood and make time fly by.

Also, knowing that a friend is waiting for you to show up at the park is a huge motivator and will force you to stick to your schedule instead of skipping the workout.

Your fitness goals then become more attainable.

There are different ways buddy workouts can be structured, for example:

• You can both perform the exercises at the same time, but separately (e.g. running)
• You can both perform the exercise together (e.g. parallel squats), or
• One person works out, while the other rests, aids and/or spots or watches over the other (e.g. lifting heavy weights).

According to a 2013 study by researchers from Michigan State University in the United States, the ideal exercise partner is one who is 40% better than you and who keeps verbal encouragement to a minimum.

Published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, the study also revealed that individuals tend to work out for a longer period when their partner is perceived to be more skilled.

I’ve practised this buddy system for years because I find it works well for me.

Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, I had many workout buddies, among them, my niece, who was seven then.

We’d go to the nearby track and run; along the way, we’d meet many strangers who eventually became friends.

After the run, we’d do some simple bodyweight strength training together.

At the end of the session, we’d compete in a short 50m sprint, and run up and down the spectator stands.

In the early years, I’d reach the finish line first, but now that she’s 11 and representing her district in athletics, she wins hands down.

It’s always a fun outing and if she’s able to beat me, dear aunty here will reward her with a root beer float.

It’s our special bonding time as we walk home drenched in sweat.

Sadly, we don’t have these little outings any more as her time is now more occupied with other school activities, and of course, electronic gadgets.

While I scout around for a new exercise buddy, take a look at some of the fun exercises on this page that I used to do with my niece.

Give them a try and I can guarantee that you’ll end up laughing at some point.

Revathi Murugappan is a certified fitness trainer who tries to battle gravity and continues to dance to express herself artistically and nourish her soul. For more information, email [e-mail]. The information contained in this column is for general educational purposes only. Neither The Star nor the author gives any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to such information. The Star and the author disclaim all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.