As students, we've all been through it: the "crunch time". That time of the year when we all start cramming a year's work into our heads for the exams.

As adults, we may sometimes undertake projects with looming deadlines that seem to eat into every precious minute of our lives.

At Least 150 to 300 Minutes of Moderate-Intensity Aerobic Physical Activity Every Week

No matter how busy we are with work or exams, at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity every week is what we should aim for to stay in great mental and physical health. This can be done through a workout of at least 30 minutes every day, or broken down further into multiple short bouts daily.

Some fitness buffs, especially those who have joined a gym and regularly go for gym workouts, might shrug off this commitment. Others might find that it is no small feat, as it requires discipline to ensure it's sustainable in the long term.

After all, how many of us have said we want to have fitness goals and start a fitness programme, but somehow falter along the way? Ever made a wild new year's resolution only to forget about it a couple of days afterwards? Yeah, us too!

From Study/Work Buddy to Fitness Buddy

One of the best ways to avoid this mistake is to rope in one of your pals or find a workout buddy who shares your fitness goals so you can exercise and achieve a better health together! It’s easier to meet similar goals when there’s someone doing it with you.

Remember how studying or work was made easier when you pulled an all-nighter with a buddy? You and your fitness friend can both reap the benefits of a workout, the same way you and your buddy both benefited from studying or working together.

Your workout partner can be a friend, a relative, a colleague, or even your significant other! Of course, if you would prefer to hire a personal trainer who can come up with personalised workout plans to help motivate you to reach your health and fitness goals, you can do that too!

Benefits of a Workout Buddy

Having company allows the mind to avoid the boredom of exertion, and reduces the pain of the workout. Here are some other reasons why a workout buddy is the best thing ever!

  1. You’ll enjoy working out more; double the company, double the fun!
  2. A workout buddy will be able to help you check your form when you’re doing exercises, like lifting weights. With someone to spot you or help you along when you’re doing that last bench press, you’re less likely to hurt yourself.
  3. A bit of friendly rivalry can really help with motivation. If you and your workout partner are both naturally competitive, you’ll find yourself pushing harder. Meeting your fitness goals will be so much easier and faster!

How to Find a Workout Buddy

Do you have trouble finding a workout buddy? Sometimes, it’s hard to find a friend who shares your interests, especially your workout interests.

Don’t worry! In this digital age where some of us have found potential soulmates online, finding a workout buddy that shares your same fitness interests is at your fingertips, literally!

For example, if you are into hiking, there are many local hiking groups that organise regular hiking sessions in Singapore and around the region. Look out for forum groups online that organise a time and place for your preferred workout.

You can also download an app from Apple Store or Google Play. They are social fitness apps that allow you to find like-minded strangers to exercise together or help organise workouts between friends.

Users can create workout and activity groups that they want others to join in. It can be any sort of physical activity, such as running, yoga, soccer, or even dragon boating, to name a few.

You can choose to go the conventional route as well. Join any fitness class you like—whether it’s yoga, HIIT, Zumba, or pole dancing—turn to the person next to you, smile and say hi! Who knows? It could be the beginning of a lifelong workout friendship!

Download a Digital Workout Buddy

If you are looking for ways to start working out, there are many fitness programmes (e.g. HPB's MOVE IT Programmes), videos online and even apps that allow users to plan workouts or compare their progress with other users.

Download the Healthy 365 App

Looking to try different types of fitness activities (e.g. Zumba, Body Combat) with your workout buddies? Download the Healthy 365 app to sign up for free activities brought to you by the Health Promotion Board (HPB).

Healthy 365 app

Healthy 365 is a mobile application by HPB which aims to encourage users to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Users can set their own steps and Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity (MVPA) minutes goals, and work towards achieving the recommended activity milestones or participate in other programmes to be rewarded!

Oh, and did we mention it's FREE?!

Why wait any longer? Find a workout buddy and start your fitness journey now!

Download the HealthHub app on Google Play or Apple Store to access more health and wellness advice at your fingertips.

Read these next: