Working out with a friend can make exercise more enjoyable. But did you know that having a buddy might also make weight-loss efforts more successful?
Social support encourages physical activity. In a 2005 study, doctors at Brown Medical School and Dartmouth University found that people who had an exercise buddy who successfully lost weight were themselves more successful at losing, too.
A weight-loss buddy helps you stay focused on achieving your goals. You’re more likely to show up for a workout if you’ve committed to meeting your buddy there. After all, you don’t want to let your partner down. What’s more, having a partner can make weight-loss fun. Time can pass more quickly if you have someone to share your walk outdoors or on the treadmill. And if you’ve hit a plateau, your buddy can help you figure out what might need to be changed and encourage you to get out and do it.
USA Today reported that in a Gallup poll of 769 Americans, aged 18 and older, who have tried to lose weight:
- 68% say their circle of friends and relatives has done more to help than hinder their efforts to slim down.
- 57% say it would be helpful to them to partner with a friend or relative when trying to lose weight.
How to Choose a
Weight-Loss Buddy
The qualities we look for in a partner or good friend may not be the same things we need in a weight-loss buddy. So how do you find a good buddy?
1. Consider personality
There’s no reason losing weight can’t be fun. Choose a buddy you like spending time with and who shares your enthusiasm.
2. Set goals
Ask yourself whether you want to work out together a few times a week or just weigh in once a week. Do you like to meet in person, talk on the phone or email? How much time do you have to spend with your buddy? Choose someone who shares your goals, commitment and skill level so you can work out at the same pace.
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3. Be accountable
If you schedule an appointment with your buddy you should try to honor that commitment. What’s more, you and your buddy will be sharing personal information so you should be able to trust each other to keep it confidential.
4. Write it down
It’s always a good idea to keep a weight-loss journal. It can help you and your buddy establish a baseline and chart your goals and progress. Consider writing down your weight and measurements, amount of time exercised or fat calories consumed. You may also want to think about a “Buddy Contract.” This friendly contract spells out your mutual goals and the ways you plan to help each other achieve them.
Online Buddy System
The weight loss experts at Slim•Fast believe in the effectiveness of building a support system. Slim•Fast offers a free, online weight loss buddy community that is open to anyone interested in losing weight. People can find buddies who share their weight loss goals, challenges and interests. For more information, go to Slim-Fast.com
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