BY: Ali Sokolow, M.A., LMHC
As we enter the fall season and the sun begins to set before we step out our office doors, many of us notice that our mood suddenly takes a turn for the worse. Some of us would just like to curl up on the couch and hide out until springtime. Let’s face it; we live in a state that is dark and dreary most of the fall and winter. But, exercise is proven to lift our moods and will help us feel better before the sun decides to come back to Washington.
However for a lot of folks, getting there is the hardest part. Getting out of bed when it is still dark outside or going to the gym after work takes a lot of motivation. That is why getting a workout buddy could save your workouts and your sanity. If you have plans to meet someone, you are more likely to go the club and workout. You wouldn’t want someone to stand you up, would you? And, you know, if you could just get to the gym, you would be fine.
Workout buddies aren’t just there to get you out of bed in the morning or to drag you from the couch to the treadmill. Having a workout buddy could be the best therapy you get all winter long. Think about it: when you are tired and cranky, your workout buddy will still be the one running next to you and supporting you along the way. They will probably be the one that you discuss problems with as you run or walk on the treadmill. These are also the people that will keep you going through the thick and thin of the Holidays and family functions. Pretty soon, you will actually look forward to meeting your buddy for workouts because you know you will feel so much better, physically and mentally, when you are done.
So to survive the cold fall and winter in Washington, we know we need to get moving and the best way to stay motivated is to get other people involved in what you are doing. Get out there and find someone willing to meet you at the club or at the track by your house. If you need help finding someone to work out with, or would like to find a personal trainer, visit the 20/20 Lifestyles Resource Center at the Bellevue club.