| It's raining outside. Your shoes are still | | | | But wanting one can be easier than finding |
| wet from your last walking session. You | | | | one. Your regular friends might not be into |
| really should just go out and exercise, but | | | | fitness, or they're the kind of people who |
| there's something good on TV. Maybe | | | | start something with good intentions and |
| later...Sound familiar?Now try this scenario: | | | | gradually slack off. It's important to find |
| It's raining outside. Your shoes are wet and | | | | someone who is as dedicated to fitness (or |
| you don't really feel like going for a walk, | | | | more dedicated) than you are. But where to |
| but your cell phone is blinking with a | | | | look? Here are some ideas:-Ask a friend, or |
| message from your buddy that says she's | | | | see if a friend of a friend is looking for |
| already left the house and she'll meet you at | | | | somebody. |
| the trail. You know you have to go, or | | | | |
| she'll give you a hard time for ditching her. | | | | -If you belong to a gym or health club, see |
| So, you grab your soggy shoes and head off | | | | if there is a bulletin board out front where |
| for a power walking session. Afterwards, you | | | | you can post requests. |
| feel good. You always feel good afterwards; | | | | |
| it's the getting started part that's | | | | -Join an exercise class or take some sports |
| hard.That's why it's so beneficial to have | | | | lessons; you might find an interested person |
| someone else to exercise with on a regular | | | | or two. |
| basis. There's no type of fitness regimen | | | | |
| that can't benefit from having a fitness | | | | -Check fitness web sites, especially related |
| buddy. If it's weightlifting, your buddy can | | | | to your interests; there may be a message |
| spot you. If it's running or biking, they | | | | board where you can look for activity |
| can push you to go faster than you would if | | | | partners.Whatever route you choose, don't be |
| you were alone. If it's climbing, she can | | | | afraid to initiate proceedings by starting up |
| catch you when you slip and start careening | | | | conversations with people or starting new |
| down the mountain (maybe climbing isn't the | | | | threads on message boards. You might be |
| safest fitness activity).Whatever your choice | | | | surprised at how many people are also looking |
| of fitness outlets, a workout buddy can not | | | | for regular workout buddies.Once you find a |
| only push you harder than you would yourself, | | | | fitness buddy, don't let him or her down. If |
| but they can actually get you out the door. | | | | you both show motivation and keep to a |
| Never underestimate the power of social | | | | regular schedule, you'll both reap the |
| obligations. Those of us who wouldn't think | | | | benefits.TC Thorn writes for a site with |
| twice about breaking a date with ourselves | | | | articles on fitness and weight-loss as well |
| cringe at the idea of breaking a date with a | | | | as a forum for helping people find fitness |
| friend. Especially if we have friends who | | | | buddies. This article may be reprinted |
| are experts at giving the guilt-trip.OK, so | | | | providing the link is included and active. |
| you're sold on the idea of a fitness buddy. | | | | |