By Satyne Doner, Contributing Writer
With the construction of the brand-new Wellness Center at Saint Leo University, students have been more inspired than ever to hit the gym. However, some students find themselves faced with obstacles such as social anxiety and consistency when it comes to working out.
The good news is that finding a fitness buddy can help alleviate some of that stress. Some students might feel nervous about working the machines, and others have trouble sticking to a schedule.
A fitness buddy can help a student be more confident when they’re in the gym- especially if they are more knowledgeable when it comes to equipment and machines.
Furthermore, a fitness buddy encourages consistency. Friends who work out together hold each other accountable for their health and wellness goals and can work as each other’s personal motivators.
So, where can a student find a fitness buddy if they don’t have one already? One way to find a friend to work out with is through group fitness programs at the Wellness Center. This can be found through the online Wellness Center member portal. Group fitness programs offer students a chance to meet like-minded individuals that can possibly become fitness buddies!
Julia Ahaus, a graduate student in her second year of Saint Leo’s MBA sports management program, runs the personal training program at the Wellness Center. She believes that a fitness buddy sets students up for success.
“I think finding a “buddy” or friends out here at the Wellness Center can really set you up for a physically and mentally healthy lifestyle,” said Ahaus.
While working out with friends can be incredibly beneficial, there’s no harm in working out alone, either. For Tiffany Bowden, a junior studying sports management, working out without a buddy keeps her more focused when she’s in the gym.
“Working out with someone else is fun, but sometimes it keeps me from my goals,” said Bowden. “For me, it’s less of a social thing and more part of my daily routine. I like to be in and out of the gym.”
In conclusion, a fitness buddy can be a valuable partnership to have if you’re looking to make friends and stay consistent. However, some people prefer to work out alone so they can decompress after a long day and focus solely on their exercises. A student should always evaluate their health and wellness goals before making this decision!
