More Effective To Work Out Alone Or With A Partner?

 A gym partner is a very valuable asset when you’re just starting out on your fitness journey.

Here are a few things to consider when deciding if a gym partnership is something that would suit you and what to look for in a gym partner.

When deciding if having a gym partner is right for you, reflect on past life experiences.  Do you often call on others for help?  Are you comforted by being surrounded with people, or do you prefer your space?  Do you take criticism well?  Are you willing to be taught? Do you not trust yourself to be consistent, or truly challenge yourself?  Genuinely answer these questions to yourself, and as you go through you’ll know the answer; because while the title may suggest a concrete answer, it all depends on you.

Now here are key points for both going with a partner who will benefit you and going alone:

Go with someone better than you

If you go with a beginner, the motivation is a lot lower to continue going. An experienced lifter will keep it challenging for you and help you with technique.

More times than not, people will not see results when the person they are working out with is at the same level or lower. 

Also don’t go with someone who is starting out, go with someone who has already got in the habit of making working out as part of their routine.  Odds are you won’t keep going if your partner keeps bailing on you.

Go Alone

Going to the gym alone will only benefit you if you’re an experienced gym goer, self taught, independent, have proper form, and know how to push yourself.  If you can do all of these things then you’re good to go alone.  However, you’re really missing out on one key component encouragement.    Encouragement can turn the tone of your day from a crappy one to achieving a new PR (Personal Record – a term used by experienced gym goers to define the One Rep Max of a given movement).

This should be a great stepping stone to determine which would benefit you.  If you find someone who does inspire you eventually you will be that perfect gym partner.

A gym partner is a very valuable asset when you’re just starting out on your fitness journey.