As with most things in life, we enjoy the events more if we share them with a friend. The same can be said of exercise. Exercise is less of a chore if you are walking and talking with a friend. The time goes quicker. It also helps to relief stress. However, there are times that I and others need to exercise alone to release stress (no one would really want to exercise with me in those moments lest the ugly side is released!). That is fine also.

How to get started? Most of us are feeling the same thing about now; how to get rid of the Holiday pounds. So, contact some friends or family and see if anyone would interested in starting a walking program or joining a gym to begin an exercise program. Then, set a weekly schedule, preferably 3 times a week. When determining a time, ensure that it is a time that is appropriate for you. For example, avoid making the time early in the morning if you are not a morning person. That sets you up for failure before you have started.  Initially, limit your time to 30 minutes. The important factor at this stage is that exercise becomes a habit- not how long you exercise. Write it in your day planner, calendar or type it in computer. Place post- it notes on your bathroom mirror. Call your exercise buddy the night before to confirm plans and be committed to the exercise and to each other. Only excuses such as the flu, sick children, cows falling from the sky or a Tsunami are acceptable.

The other benefit of exercising with others is the joy of camaraderie. The feeling that we are all in the same boat together, grinding away. The companionship and friendship that develops between people. That in some cases is just as important as the physical exercise. Some folks do quite well exercising in their home but the research shows that most of us like the support of others and need that support to be successful. It helps if others notice that you are doing more and provide you with positive feedback. We need the support of each other and it helps us to stay with the program. This is one reason exercise classes are successful. In a society where it is so easy to be without human contact, we grossly need relationships in our lives.

The buddy system can also mean a kind compliment or word of encouragement to  a family member, friend or spouse who is making the effort to become healthier. The steps can be very challenging for some individuals. Some who have had a life long struggle with weight loss will always have to be attentive to eating and exercise habits and it can be really helpful if others support them. So, grab a buddy and go!