A Buddy

A Buddy

Overheard: “I have no time to exercise. I used to be so skinny. I have no on e to exercise with. I don’t know anyone who wants to exercise with me. I need an exercise buddy. Maybe I should join the gym. Did you know that you can burn 62 calories by drinking ice cold water?”

First, drinking lots of water can help you lose weight. Especially if it replaces sugary sodas and calorie-filled drinks. But physical activity is the key to getting in shape. And Tonya’s right – she does need an exercise buddy.

Last summer when my husband and I decided to give triathlon a try, we knew no one in the sport. We knew nothing about biking and hadn’t swam since high school. But, the moment we mentioned our interest to friends, we were amazed at the “underground” world we found. A teenager in the neighborhood who did junior triathlon told my husband about some guys in town that did a lot of biking – one of them worked at a shop in town. My husband stopped in and started talking with this man and almost instantly, we had a whole new group of friends welcoming us with open arms to the world of biking. Now, about forty of us have come together to start our own “club.” I have workout buddies ready and waiting any time of day – no matter what sport I’m looking to do that day. We’ve even started an online group so we can share our goals, encourage, and motivate each other.

We exercisers are a very social group and would love to add you to our numbers. There really is a buddy out there for you that has the same goals you do. Whether it is triathlon training or just walking around the block, there’s a buddy for everyone. Tell everyone you know you’re looking – you’ll be glad you did!