When it comes to the way we train, small tweaks can make a huge difference – including where we exercise and who we do it with. Some people prefer the quiet reflection of a solo sesh, while others love the buzz of sweating it out in a group class and grabbing a protein shake together afterwards. If you’re inclined towards the latter, good news – according to personal trainer and MANOR founder, Charlie Watts, exercising with others could be more beneficial that you realise. Here, he reveals why:
1. It’s a great way to improve motivation
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Training solo is all well and good, but sometimes we need an extra push – which is where a training partner comes in. In fact, we’re more likely to work harder when teamed with a partner. ‘Working out with others encourages friendly competitiveness, which makes you push yourself, resulting in a higher intensity session,’ explains Watts. ‘Finding somebody who will support you and offer verbal encouragement can be particularly beneficial, especially on those days where enthusiasm is lacking,’ he adds. Rewarding your efforts with something delicious is a great incentive on days like these, too – just make sure you choose something high in protein to complement your hard work. We love Lindahls Protein Puddings (which contain 14g protein per pot and are low in sugar and fat), right before or after a workout to boost energy levels (it doesn’t hurt that they taste like a delicious dessert, either…).
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2. It increases your accountability
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Ever found yourself agreeing to an early gym class with a friend? Then you’ll know that strong pull of accountability, even when you really don’t feel like getting out of bed. ‘You’re much more likely to show up if you’ve committed to a specific day or time with a training partner, or booked into a group class,’ Watts explains. In fact, researchers at the University of Aberdeen found that finding a new training buddy actually increases the amount of exercise we do. ‘Try setting a regular day or time each week and keeping to it,’ suggests Watts. ‘You’ll soon fall into a routine that sticks.’
3. There‘ll always be practical support on hand
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As well as emotional support, a good training partner can help you physically, too. Whether you’re after a hand counting reps or checking positioning, their insight can be invaluable – particularly as they’ll be able to spot things you might not see otherwise, explains Watts. ‘Asking your training buddy to keep tabs on your form and flag where you could improve is a smart move,’ he says. ‘When looking for a good training partner, I’d suggest finding someone who is already training consistently; they’ll be able to inspire, encourage and support you better,’ he adds.
4. You’ll have a supportive community to lean on
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Perhaps you enjoy training on your own – and that’s great – but incorporating a training partner or group classes can be a brilliant way to connect with other like-minded people locally, which, in turn, will spur you on to hit those goals. ‘A shared experience can be fun, inducing more positive emotions related to working out than a solo session,’ Watts points out. ‘Building a support network and being connected to a “tribe” can also benefit your mental health,’ he adds. In fact, research has found that working out with others can lower stress by 26%, compared to people who exercise alone. Plus, it means you’ll always have a training buddy to grab a post-workout snack with –set your goals over something packed with protein, such as Lindahls KVARG yoghurts (each pot contains 15g of protein), to really maximise your gains.
Make Lindahls your go-to training partner to help you meet your daily protein needs. Find Lindahls products at your local supermarket or visit lindahls.co.uk for more information
