ACTIVE LIFE is a monthly series in the Nanaimo News Bulletin contributed by City of Nanaimo Staff. 

I get to work with the most amazing people.

Not only are they helpful in my work efforts, they are very supportive in my workout regime.

Every lunch hour, I have co-workers who are committed to spending the lunch hour with me in our attempts to get and stay fit.

It is so entrenched in us after all of these years that we go whatever the weather, and we even book the time into our calendars to further commit ourselves.

In addition to our daily lunch-hour workouts, some of us have taken on the Squat Circuit Challenge where in four weeks we will work up to 400 squats.

We are not only benefiting physically from this extra fitness push but are enjoying the camaraderie with each other as we fulfil our daily commitment.

It made me think of how much easier exercise is when you have somebody join you and encourage you.

Here are a few reasons to work out with a partner:

You will be more committed –

On those days when I don’t feel like exercising, I know that somebody is counting on me, and it motivates me to follow through.

The interesting part is that I may not feel like going initially, but I can’t think of one time where I regretted going.

A lunchtime workout is like my reset switch, and it always makes for a more productive afternoon.

You will have more fun –

Let’s face it, working out can seem like a chore at times.

I have found, however, that being with a friend takes the “work” out of my workout.

I always end up laughing a lot and the time goes by so fast.

You will work harder –

I find that when I exercise with others, the intensity is higher than when I am on my own.

One key tip to consider is to pick a workout partner whose abilities are in the same ballpark as yours. If you are on the same level, you can push each other.

Odds are you will both want to quit around the same time, but you’ll go a little longer if your friend is still at it.

This season, take a moment and exercise with a buddy. You will both benefit greatly.

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