Doing things with friends always elevates the joy.
So why not bring that into your workout routine, which, unless you’re a gym nut, can come with a lot of moaning and groaning before even picking up a weight?
ClassPass predicts that next year, working out with mates will be an even more popular way to workout than it already is, after finding 45% of those in a recent survey are more likely to continue with a new workout if the class is done with a pal.
A YouGov study also found recently that people would exercise more if their colleagues did, showing how easily influenced we are by those around us.
Utilising that to carve out a regular workout routine can be a smart move.
ClassPass also found having a ‘Sweat Squad’ means people are six times more likely to stick with a routine for 12 months or longer, while eight in 10 people say they push themselves harder in group classes than they do on their own.
But working out with friends does have its limits.
What if you don’t want to focus on the same fitness goals? What if you get distracted and end up just talking most of the allotted gym time?
Kinsey Livingston, ClassPass VP of partnerships tells us: ‘Every fitness class can be a social experience if you bring a friend along.
‘Friends will keep you accountable and help follow through on your fitness commitments, especially on the days when you’d rather hit snooze.’
This is how you can make it count.
Plan in social time
Accept that you’re going to want to talk before you get there, rather than feeling guilty later you chatted more than you sweated.
Kinsey says the way around this is to make it a social event as well as simply exercise.
‘If you are taking a class with a friend, aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early so that you can have a quick catchup while you’re stretching and getting ready for the class to begin,’ she suggests.
‘While you can definitely stand near your friend or book bikes next to one another, you will both gain the most from the experience by focusing on the instructor once the class begins.
‘It’s also more respectful to other class attendees if you keep talking to a minimum.
‘After class, plan to grab a post-workout smoothie or a yummy meal to recap the workout and plan your next one together.’
Try new exercises
ClassPass data shows those who work out with friends are 63% more likely to keep a routine for 12 months or longer.
‘Working out with friends will make exercise something you look forward to in your day. In addition to helping you keep a routine for longer, friends can help you feel more adventurous and more willing to try new classes and activities,’ Kinsey says.
Wanting to try a new piece of equipment or class can be intimidating alone, especially if you’re unsure of how to use it or what to expect.
Bringing a friend along means you can laugh together and embrace any mishaps, while also spotting each other to check form.
Alternative classes can be fun to do with a partner too, such as dancing or pole fitness.
Switch to virtual
If you struggle to make working out together consistent due to living distance, there are now more virtual classes available than ever due to the pandemic.
‘In the past three months, 58% of ClassPass users have met up with a friend for a workout in person, and 22% of ClassPass users have done a digital workout with a friend,’ says Kinsey.
‘If you are no longer in the same city, you can still find a class online to take together.
‘A friend moving may also be the perfect opportunity to switch up your routine and try something new. 81% of people say they work harder in a group class and two-thirds of people share group classes make it easier to keep up a routine.
‘Use the opportunity to discover a few new studios or classes you love, and then make them a habit by blocking off time in your schedule each week. You may even meet some new friends in class.’
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