by A. South

Created on: December 14, 2008

When it comes to motivation, everyone is different. Some people are motivated by a snug pair of pants, an upcoming event or a picture of yourself. If you're looking for motivation, consider finding a buddy. Training partners are perhaps the greatest source of training motivation, whether you're trying to start or stick to a training plan.

Research shows that people who tackle a training plan with the help of a buddy are more likely to meet and exceed their goals.

A study by the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that workout partners up commitment, effort level and lead to improved performance.

So what are you waiting for?

First, pick your partner
You're picking someone you're going to spend a lot of time with, someone who can challenge you and keep you going. Instead of looking at age and gender, consider someone with similar goals and a comparable fitness level. If you pick someone who is "more fit" you'll get discouraged. Meanwhile, if you are working with someone below your fitness, you'll get bored quickly.

Commit, commit, commit
Now that you have your partner, figure out a schedule and your goals. Write then down if possible. Agree on your routine and then you can start holding each other accountability, which is the number one job of a training partner. Don't let your partner cut back on miles or skip reps and ask them to return the favor.

A watchful eye
In addition to giving you one more reason to get your workout in, your training partner also does the important job of guiding you through your workout. They know you and your training plan and they'll be able to give you positive, important feedback. And you should do the same. You don't have to be a legendary trainer or fitness specialist, but you are an outside source, and that's important.

Cross the finish line
With a good training partner, your chances of meeting your goals are significantly higher. Don't stop once you meet your goals. Even before you cross the finish line, sign up for another race. If you drop your goal weight, now try to tone up or try an new workout.

Everyone has days when they don't want to head out the door and go to the gym. Knowing that there's someone there waiting for you is sometimes just what it takes to get you moving. Reliable, compatible workout partners can be the difference between meeting your goals and quitting before the job is done.

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