When you know you have somebody waiting for you to sweat it out, bailing is not a choice. That’s why buddy workouts are so great, as they help you stick to the plan; a simple thing we most often ditch. It ties partners in a commitment that calls for discipline, respect for time and a heightened sense of motivation.
This model of workout is not new, but is something that has been continuously improvised upon. Besides being a fun way to spend time constructively with a friend, it also makes you accountable to your partner, making you flounder less. Couples have also benefitted tremendously. “I give this form of exercise a definite yes. It not only builds muscles, but also builds relationships,” says Gagan Arora, Reebok master trainer, who—considering the benefits—has designed a handful of exercises that you can practice at home.
Benefits are numerous. For starters, it compels you to work harder. There is a constant sense of healthy competition with your counterpart. It also helps you fast-track your fitness goals. Also, there are fewer injuries as your buddy is always watching over you. “It’s also believed to improve sex as the adrenalin rush helps you get aroused faster. In addition to that, in strength training, the buddy plays a role in balancing, while in cardio the partner helps you to burn out rapidly. In flexibility, the partner can help in stretching and working on those tired muscles,” he says. There are two rules that should be kept in mind: drills should be challenging for both partners, and you should include reactivity drills as much as possible, adds Arora. Partner workouts are also known to induce respect, besides building trust. “When I am leaning on my partner to do a set of push-ups, I am definitely trusting her to be stable throughout the set,” he says with confidence.
You can try throwing in some props to excite the routine, with your body weight being the most potent of them all, Arora says. Depending on your strength, you use water bottles, towels, pillows or gym equipment such as dumbbells, TRX, bosu, medicine balls and exercise tubing, hurdles and cones. “The best thing about duet workout is the physical touch you experience in your routines. It can be very therapeutic for couples, as well as friends. Remember, it’s important that you do not miss even a single session. Easy or hard, every rep counts,” he says.
Private classes can be fixed by appointments with the master trainer.