We've all been there, we're tired, it's a little chilly out, or takeout is only an app swipe away. We all have days when it's easier to stream a new show and veg out. Self-motivation is a universal struggle that sometimes leads to ditching a solo run, but by having a partner you may just find the motivation to get up and get yourself to spin class. 

A study by the University of Aberdeen found that, unsurprisingly, having an exercise buddy may just be the key to getting off the couch – and pushing ourselves harder during workouts.

For the study, researchers paired one group of participants up with a new gym buddy, while another group continued on with their normal exercise routines. The group with exercise partners worked out more than those who did their own thing. They also discovered that people worked out more when their exercise buddy offered emotional support and encouragement, rather than just practical support, such as never missing a session.

Try these tips to get the most out of your routine and get you and your workout buddy moving:

1. Commit to a Specific Schedule: When you fail to plan, you plan to fail, as the old adage goes. Don’t try to haphazardly fit your workouts into your schedule without any rhyme or reason.

2. Utilize the Weekend: Take advantage of the fact that it only takes 3-5 days per week to put together an effective, results-producing workout. One trick to help you pull it all off is to make it a stop on the way home from work or carve out an hour to work out on the weekends.

3. Make Workouts a Priority: One of the biggest mistakes that people make is allowing gym time to be bumped off of their schedule too easily. Distractions are everywhere, but you can overcome them, now!

4. Don’t Beat Yourself Up: No matter who you are, there will be times when you just aren’t able to maintain as regular a routine as you’d like due to outside demands. Don’t be too tough on yourself. Just dust yourself off and try again!

5. Strength Train - The most time-efficient way to better fitness: You’ve probably come across articles telling you how great strength training is, well it’s true. If you’re looking for a really quick, easy, and efficient way to better exercise, this is it.

So remember, fitness with friends is a great way to maintain a regular exercise schedule and support network. At the Y, you can also up the fun factor with group exercise classes.

Now, grab a friend and jump into fitness!