Regardless of your current workout routine (or lack thereof), a partner can help keep your workout fresh and challenging. Here are some things you can begin looking for in a fitness partner.

 

ShapedByFaith.com
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One of the advantages of teaching fitness classes is that I get to work out with a variety of people every day. My workouts are never boring, because my students bring their unique personalities to the class. I consider my students to be my workout partners, because we share the common bond of keeping our bodies physically fit. Regardless of your current workout routine (or lack thereof), a partner can help keep your workout fresh and challenging. Here are some things you can begin looking for in a fitness partner.

 

Your partner should have similar fitness goals and be committed to showing up and working hard.  Ideally, you will find someone who won’t quit in the middle of a workout and who will encourage you to go further than you thought possible. This type of partner will feed off your accomplishments and will be motivating to you with a positive “ I can do it” attitude.  Both of you will look forward to the next workout and want the best for each other.  It will not take long to discover if you have the right workout partner.  If someone frequently stands you up, complains about the length of the workout or suggests coffee and doughnuts while working out…then it’s time to find another partner.
It is also important to find someone at your fitness level or higher.  A fit partner is dependable and will push harder to help you to reach your fitness goals faster.

Understanding is a good quality to look for in a fitness partner.  An understanding person knows when to back off and when to push hard.  Even dogs can be great workout partners!  They need exercise too!  Taking them with you for a walk or a run is a great way to keep both of you in good shape. Besides, they are very loyal and unlikely to sleep in when you want to work out.

Choosing a partner is one of the best ways to stay motivated and keep moving forward. Together, you both can succeed.  In Ecclesiastes 4, we’re encouraged us to team up with a partner so that we can help each other: “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.”

Partner Exercise

Double Arm Rows with elastic band
Both partners should stand (or sit on a stability ball) five feet apart, facing each other while holding an elastic band. Your partner will be sharing the opposite end of your band. Both of you hold onto the band in each hand with palms facing each other. Stand (or sit) up tall (meaning you have good posture and an extended spine) and contract your abdominals. Inhale and raise your arms straight in front of you. Exhale as you both press your arms back; with your elbows leading the movement (keep the elbows close to the body). Keep your shoulders relaxed and down.  View the how to video below.

Repeat each exercise for 1–3 sets of 12–16 repetitions.

Seated  Double Arm Rows
Standing Double Arm Rows
Progression: Reverse Lunge & Double Arm Row

Visit Theresa Rowe’s website: www.shapedbyfaith.com

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