(Fitness) Friends with Benefits - Fit Training Blog for Women 40, 50 and Beyond

We all have them, buddies, pals, BFF's even "work spouses". Folks you can count on to listen to you whine about your latest office drama, love life episode or celebrate when you grab that promotion or announce your engagement, baby or grand baby's arrival.

All of these types of support can be beneficial, but today’s focus will be on partnering up with a friend, colleague or family member to act as your “motivator to move”. The National Strength and Conditioning Association found that training with a partner can actually yield better results than working out solo.

Having an exercise partner is fun, especially if you initially invest in a few sessions with a professional fitness trainer to learn some basic exercises and understand the need for cardiovascular, strength and flexibility activities. Many trainers will work with two people simultaneously for a bit more than the cost of a single session. (Call me for details)

It is also rare that two people have the identical fitness levels and goals, so, while one or two workouts a week with an exercise partner could be a great addition to an overall program, you should schedule a session or two alone to focus on your specific needs, fitness levels, and any special areas of interest (like a dance class for you and a racquetball lesson for your exercise partner).

This way, you don't (always) train far outside of your ability or have a "snoozer" of a workout if your buddy is just getting started and you've been hard a core exerciser for years.

Who can you call on today to get started?