Posted: Wednesday, July 6, 2016 11:18 am
Linda Stollings
After a long run the other day, I popped into the YMCA to grab some water and speak to some friends. When I was back in the ladies locker room I could not help but eavesdrop on some of the conversations that were taking place.
There was a group of sweet ladies that had just finished their water exercise class. They were just chatting away about their class and naming the ladies that were not there that particular day. One of the ladies volunteered to call the missing ones and check up on them. Another lady had brought a card for everyone to sign for one of their exercise buddies that had a death in her family. They chatted for a while ending the conversation with “where should we go to lunch today.” I was so impressed by their concern for one another and the social connection that they had developed by exercising together.
I taught aerobic exercise for 25 years and dearly loved every minute of it. I would not trade anything for all the memories and friendships that were forged over the years. I now teach a Kettlebell class at the Bristol Slater Center and just love being around this special group of hard working women. They inspire me to keep teaching, learning and loving what I do. We really had some wonderful times even though we were exercising our butts off (literally). The fellowship that is experienced in group fitness classes fills the need for physical exercise, but much more than that, it fills the need for face to face personal interaction and relationship.
I also love running with my running buddies too. We run, talk, laugh and occasionally cry, all while we are working out together. I could certainly stick my earphones in my ears and turn up my iPod, occasionally I have to do that, but it never takes the place of running with my friends. In fact, I think our society has become less relational because we tend to use technology as our means of communication. I am as guilty as the next person but let’s all be cautious not to let it take the place of building relationships with others. After all, we are on this earth to help people and to let others help us.
With so much social media these days, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Flickr, Snapchat, Goggle Hangouts, and I am sure I’m missing some, heaven forbid we lose sight of the importance of face to face interaction with others. It is a crucial aspect of emotional wellness.
If you are having trouble getting consistent with your fitness routine, invite a friend to go with you. It will benefit you physically and emotionally. It will help in the following ways.
» Instant Accountability: If you know you are meeting someone, you will be more likely to show up.
» Motivation: Your exercise buddy or buddies will help to motivate you. When you don’t feel like exercising they will encourage you and vice versa.
» Social outlet: As you begin to build your relationship with that person or persons you will begin to do other things together. Like the ladies from the water exercise class, you can plan to have lunch together, shopping, or other fun adventures.
» Stress release: Just as exercise is a stress reliever; just talking to someone about your problems can also help relieve stress and help you get a new perspective on your problems.
» Help in time of need: When you need a hand in other aspects of your life, these dear friends will be the first ones on your porch to lend you a helping hand.
As a Health Coach, I enjoy being with my clients to support them in any way I can, not just in the gym but in their lives. I hope that I have helped my clients half as much as they have helped and supported me over the years. So, with that being said, buddy up with some friends and start your fitness today.
See you in the gym!
