Everyone agrees, we won't push ourselves when we train alone and when we train with others not only is our performance better, the entire experience is far more pleasant. Suffering together creates energy and a camaraderie you cannot find anywhere else.
So what makes YOU a good training buddy? Obviously words of encouragement and being fully engaged are both paramount but there are other things to consider when training with partners...
Speak the TRUTH
Empty congratulatory words are pointless and worse, when a sincere compliment is delivered it will mean less if you are continually blurting out fluff. When you see solid effort and focus or when you witness a milestone (even a tiny one) give a shout out! Be a good training buddy and speak the truth; if your partner(s) are slacking or becoming distracted– reel them in! If someone needs correction (eyes up, flatten the back, chest to the floor, heels down) then say something! This demonstrates that you are paying attention and care about your partner's success... and not just your own workout! The only caution here is to be sure your input is of value and delivered at the appropriate time. When your partner is on round 7 of a Tabata--don't tell them their push ups are short and to find the floor. When heavy weight is racked on their back, this is not the time to ask them if they plan to max. Communicate goals – this creates accountability and leads to success. Keep the "golden rule" in mind... correct others the way you'd like to be corrected.
Be ready to HEAR IT
As a training partner you are responsible to provide correction when needed – AND you are responsible to hear correction when needed. Regardless of experience or athletic prowess, be willing to listen to input as it will only make you better! NOBODY is perfect at everything and if perhaps they were... our hypothetical phenom will get tired they will likely short their ROM or simply 'pull up'... it's human nature. Input from others is very valuable and should never be taken as negative. If you listen, some of our veteran athletes at the Fit Pit can be heard asking, "Is my form right?" "Am I going deep enough?"
Bring something to the party
There are many things I enjoy about our Fit Pit members and one is the desire to share and educate. Many of our members share books, recipes, links on Facebook, new equipment finds, progressions to ease the path toward a goal, etc. THIS is the TRUE benefit of having training partners! When you're engaged with your training buddies you know their goals and struggles, their strengths and weaknesses, and this gives you an inside track on how to motivate them and you become part of their success.
Humility
Not much trouble with this one at the Fit Pit. We have some veteran, gifted and hard working athletes who always make time to help others – and I love it! When you're new there is nothing better than feeling accepted (or even noticed) by the "studs" at the gym. Never, ever be SO COOL you cannot encourage someone else. Consider partnering with a newer member sometime, rather than seeking our your 'equals', invite a new person and encourage them by example.
WIN WIN!
Providing encouragement, accountability and sincere input is a two-way street! And if you're not getting those things from your partner(s)... speak up and tell your partners to GET IN THE GAME and do their part! There is joy in working together toward a goal then seeing your partner succeed.
Check your ego at the door.
Engage and encourage.
Experience success and joy.
