Weight loss

Relating to buddies One reason that teaming up with an exercise buddy works is that you see someone who's similar to you doing a physical activity.

That strengthens your belief that you can accomplish the same thing.

The greater your self-confidence about performing regular activity or keeping up in an exercise class, the more motivated you're likely to become, Brehm says.

That boosts adherence-your ability to stay with an exercise regimen beyond the start-up phase.

"People who stick to their exercise program get some kind of reward: it makes them feel better, it helps them sleep, it's fun to do, or it's accomplishing something," says Brehm.

When you have a buddy, "you're accomplishing two things at once.

You're getting to see your friend…and you're exercising at the same time." You can achieve adherence success with a supportive group as well, says Annesi, who has conducted research on the subject.

He's sympathetic if your knees grow weak at the thought of entering a room filled with sleek, high-intensity, power exercisers.

Not all physical activity that happens in a social setting is supportive, he notes.

Annesi advises you avoid groups (and individuals) that make you...

Read more...