How to find the Perfect Exercise Buddy
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In our last blog, we went over the advantages of having an exercise buddy, but how do you find that perfect workout partner?
Studies show that exercising with a friend will make you more likely to stick to your regimen, enjoy it more AND push you to new limits! There is really no downside to taking someone else on your fitness journey. After all, when you hit your goals you’ll need someone to celebrate with too!
Here is Vitasole’s guide on how to find that twin flame to step, stretch and sweat right there with you.
1) Keep it simple - Start with your circle
If you’re reading this blog chances are you are pretty sure the people you know won’t be keen to take this journey with you. If that’s the case, Vitasole thinks it’s at least worth a chat. You might be surprised with how they react. At the very worst, they’ll just say no and will be another person to keep you accountable anyway, so it’s a win-win.
Perhaps you think it “won’t be their thing”, but it’s possible they’d think the exact same thing about you. Most of the “fit people” you see weren’t always fit. They’ve gone on a journey themselves, just as you’re about to. Most of the time those fitness journeys are out of character for the person going on it, that’s why it’s a journey!
2) Join a Class
If you’re new to fitness we would recommend this step anyway. On top of the obvious benefits of being pushed through a workout by a professional, fitness classes are also a goldmine to find that perfect fitness friend. After all, you’re in there for the same reasons.
Your local gym should have a full timetable of classes to undertake. Pick one you like the look of and strike up a conversation after the class. Be brave, you never know.
If you’re not a member of a gym, don’t worry. There should be no shortage of external exercise classes near you. Simply Google “Boot Camp (or Walking group, Spin Class or even Goat Yoga (it’s a real thing) and (your area)” and you’ll have no shortage.
3) Run Clubs
In recent years run clubs have become the “it” fitness trend, and not just for the health benefits. In early 2024 they rose to prominence for a different reason, they have become the “New Tinder”. That’s right, people disillusioned with the dating apps have been congregating at Run Clubs as the new way to meet people.
You may be thinking, “whoa Vitasole, pump the brakes. I just want to meet someone to work out with, not the love of my life”. We completely understand that.
However, the sociability of these Run Clubs isn’t just for romantic partners, there’s also room for platonic relationships too. After all, you’re there with like minded people, who are full of endorphins and looking to meet people. Undoubtedly there’d be a friend or two in the mix.
But if you happen to slip and fall into a love story for the ages, we’d be open to that too.
4) Go Virtual
We know Mum told you not to talk to strangers, but times have changed. These days you can find just about anything online, including that perfect fitness friend.
To meet a traditional fitness friend, we’d recommend jumping on your humble Facebook Groups. Look up “Fitness (your area)” on the FB search bar and you’ll probably find a community of like minded people. Otherwise, you can have a look at Meetups which is a website designed to help people with common interests meet up and make friends (sounds perfect right?). Then for the more savvy, there’s actually a plethora of apps designed to help you find a gym buddy.
If you don’t mind going remote, Reddit is an absolutely great way to get some people on your team. If you don’t know anything about Reddit, it’s basically a massive online community where people ask and answer questions and post content on niche groups called “subreddits”. When we say “massive” we mean it. The “Fitness” subreddit currently has over 12 million members! Here you’ll be able to ask questions, make online friends, and keep yourself accountable for your goals.
5) Join a team!
Almost every single touch footy (or netball, dodgeball, indoor cricket, water polo etc.) team on Earth is perpetually looking for numbers. One of those numbers could be you!
Depending where you are on your fitness journey the idea of joining an organised team and league may seem a bit daunting. But these days your local community centre or sports club will have a range of leagues catering for those taking it really seriously, down to those looking to have a runaround and have some fun.
If you’re nervous about your abilities, don’t be. In our experience, those more social sport leagues will just be happy to have you there to fill out the numbers.
Finding the perfect exercise buddy can be a game-changer for your fitness journey. Not only do you have someone to keep you accountable about sticking to your goals (because they have the same goals). You’ll also have someone there in the trenches with you. Going through those arduous lows, and dizzying endorphin filled highs.
With a little effort and an open mind, you’ll be stepping out with a new friend in no time. So, lace up your Vitasoles, get out there, and start connecting. Here’s to making fitness fun and fabulous – together!
Happy buddy hunting!