Sometimes you have no choice. When you are home and it’s raining or you need a short 30-minute workout, you end up alone, and that is perfectly OK. Sometimes we use that time to think about the mysteries of the universe. But once in a while it is beneficial to work out with someone else, or even in a group. It forces us to keep going in “competition” with our friends and it can be fun too. There are a couple ways to get this group workout, maybe ways that you have not thought of yet. That’s what I am here for!
Apps
With all the technology these days, it is no surprise that I can say even in this situation that ‘there’s an app for that’. Multiple exercise or diet apps have a way of connecting to your Facebook account or contact list and allowing you to share results with friends. This is an easy way of motivating you to do better or keep up with your friends. The only catch: they have to be just as motivated as you are!
Siblings/Best friends
Inviting a friend along to the gym or doing your home workout with a brother or sister should not be discounted. While you exercise you can catch up on the latest gossip or give counsel on starting a new school. This can distract you from your aching muscles, and it also encourages you to keep going; if they can do it, why would you not be able to? It works vice versa as well. I know my best supporter is my sister, and she is always game to spend an hour sweating with me. It’s also a good bonding experience for anyone, from close friends to distant cousins.
Group classes
When you work out in a group, whether you are the student or the teacher, it is like working out with your friends on a larger scale. In a group you have several people eager to be there and motivated to get in shape, and this in turn will motivate you. When I teach tae kwon do and we do an endurance class, I force myself to keep going even when I am tired because if I can’t do the things I am asking 8 and 9 year olds to do, then I have no business being an instructor. When I am taking a class, I have my friends around to encourage me, and people to compete with. Peer pressure should never be underestimated, especially when it can be used for good.
Working out alone is not a bad thing. But having people around can give you that boost that nothing else can. They can push you past your limits and help you get better than you already were. So grab a couple pals, your yoga mats, and get active!
