Part 2: Social Support and Competition:
1- Join forces with a strong fitness buddy
Remember that time you saw someone at the gym lifting twice your weight and thought, “I want to be like them”? Well, here’s your chance!
What is a Super Fit Workout Buddy?
A super fit workout buddy is someone who is already in great shape and has a strong commitment to their fitness routine. They are the person you team up with to elevate your workouts and keep you motivated.
Why Does it Work?
Working out with someone who is fitter than you can push you to work harder and achieve more. Studies have shown that we tend to perform better when we’re with someone who is performing better than us. This is known as the Köhler effect. It’s the phenomenon where a person works harder as a member of a group than when working alone.
How to Do It:
- Find Your Buddy: Look for someone in your gym, social circle, or online fitness community who is fit and motivated.
- Set Common Goals: Discuss your fitness goals and make sure they align. This will help you both stay focused and motivated.
- Schedule Regular Workouts: Plan regular workout sessions together. Treat these appointments as you would any other important commitment.
- Challenge Each Other: Use each other’s strengths to challenge and push each other. If your buddy is a great runner, ask them to help you improve your running skills.
- Celebrate Achievements: Celebrate each other’s achievements, no matter how small. This will help build a strong and supportive relationship.
2 – Use the energy of group class fitness to your advantage
Remember that time you and your friends said you should all start working out together? Well, now’s the time to make it happen!
What is Strength in Numbers?
Strength in numbers refers to the benefits and motivation derived from participating in group fitness classes or workout sessions with friends.
Why Does it Work?
Group workouts provide a sense of community and accountability. When you’re surrounded by like-minded individuals working towards similar fitness goals, it creates a supportive environment that can significantly boost your motivation. The energy and enthusiasm in a group setting can be contagious, pushing you to work harder than you might on your own. Plus, the variety and structure of group classes can keep workouts exciting and challenging.
How to Do It:
- Find a Class or Group: Look for group fitness classes at your local gym or community center. Many gyms offer a range of classes from yoga to high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
- Invite Friends: Encourage your friends to join you. Working out with friends can make the experience more enjoyable and provide an extra layer of accountability.
- Set Group Goals: As a group, set fitness goals and track each other’s progress. Celebrate each other’s achievements and provide support when needed.
- Mix It Up: Try different types of classes or group workouts to keep things interesting and challenge your body in new ways.
- Stay Consistent: Make a commitment to attend group workouts regularly. Consistency is key to seeing results and maintaining motivation.
3 – Turn Up the Heat with Friendly Competition
Ever wanted to prove to your friend that you can run faster or lift heavier? Now’s your chance!
What is Friendly Competition in Fitness?
Adding an element of competition to your workout involves challenging yourself or others to reach specific fitness goals or milestones. This can be done through fitness challenges, races, or simply trying to outperform your previous best.
Why Does it Work?
Competition is a powerful motivator because it taps into our natural desire to win and be the best. It adds an extra layer of excitement and challenge to your workouts, pushing you to work harder and achieve more. Plus, competition can foster a sense of camaraderie and support among participants, further boosting motivation. Multiple studies support this.
How to Do It:
- Set a Challenge: Create a fitness challenge with specific goals, such as running a certain distance or completing a specific number of workouts in a month.
- Find a Competitor: Challenge a friend or join a group fitness challenge. Having someone to compete against can make the challenge more exciting and motivating.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your workouts and performance. Seeing your progress can be a powerful motivator.
- Celebrate Wins: Celebrate your achievements and the achievements of others. Recognizing hard work and success can further boost motivation.
- Keep it Friendly: Remember that the goal is to have fun and improve yourself, not to create tension or negativity. Keep the competition friendly and supportive.
