Staying Motivated and Having More Fun With a Workout Buddy
May 7, 2021
If you have goals to try a new workout, push yourself harder or maintain a new exercise routine, how about enlisting the help of a friend? With a workout buddy, you can share words of encouragement, hold one another accountable and help each other stay motivated. It’s easier to show up for a fitness class or a personal training session when you know your bestie will be there, too! In this blog post, we’re featuring two enthusiastic pairs of workout buddies. They shared with us why they choose to exercise together and how it helps them stay active -- and have more fun.
EG & J
How long have you both been YWCA members?
EG: We have both been YWCA members since 2014 and I have been an instructor since 2018. J: EG first joined YWCA after winning a membership at a silent auction and then convinced me to join!
What do you think are the benefits of having a workout buddy?
EG: Having a workout buddy helps for accountability; fitness is a fun thing to do together and having a sidekick is a great way to get you extra motivated to move. For competitive folks, it's also always helpful to have a little friendly competition to give yourself that extra push! Need a little pep talk to hype you up for that lift? Look no further than your buddy! They can spot you, too! J: I have so much more fun working out with EG than working out by myself! She always pushes me to try my best, and workouts go by so much faster when you have a buddy.
What’s one thing you appreciate about your workout buddy?
EG: I appreciate that J is as much of a nerd as I am and always willing to help me think of ideas for a themed workout and test things before I try them in the studio. J: I appreciate that EG knows me well enough to know if I have a little bit more in the tank and could be trying harder, and conversely, when I'm totally exhausted and am already giving it all I have. 
Eva & Louise
How long have you both been YWCA members?
Eva: I have been a member since 2002. I gave Louise a virtual membership as a gift at the end of December.
What do you think are the benefits of having a workout buddy?
Eva: For me, working out with my sister has been an opportunity to connect with my sister. During this past year, with COVID-19 restrictions, online workouts have been important in keeping our spirits up.
What’s one thing you appreciate about your workout buddy?
Eva: All my sisters and I have been grieving the death of our wonderful father, who passed away in January. The silver lining has been the ability to keep in touch and communicate with Zoom.
What fitness classes or workouts do you enjoy together?
Eva: We have enjoyed the HIIT class on Monday nights (now RIPPED), Strength and Stretch with Renee, Chisel on Wednesdays and Fridays with Tara and Renee, and REVVED up Recovery with Tara. Learn More about YWCA Fitness Membership