When you’re training with a friend for a 10K run, and also going swimming with another friend to keep him consistent, sometimes you have to do both on the same day. That was precisely my scenario this past weekend. I ran about four miles in the morning, then did 15 laps at the local pool in the afternoon. A day of pure, unadulterated cardio. I practically did two out of a three events that make up a triathlon. And if I owned a bike, I probably would have done the third just to feel more fantastic.
The best part about working out that much in one day is of course the food afterwards. That’s certainly why I work out: to eat slightly unhealthily and still be okay. The aesthetic stuff is just a bonus. How else can I eat a KFC three-piece box meal without any guilt? It’s even better when you get to share the meal with the buddy you exercised with. Bonding over food and endorphins.
It is said that working out with someone keeps them accountable, but I disagree. Ultimate motivation still has to come from within. Having a friend there may keep you consistent for a few weeks, but for the long haul it’s up to you to sustain that consistency. When has telling a fat friend they need to exercise and eat better ever worked? They don’t need to be reminded of something they know innately. I’ve seen even the encouragement of a dearest spouse cannot force a person to change.
Which is kind of sad because it usually takes a health scare to create the impetus. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be big: many many years ago my doctor told me I was on the verge of high blood pressure. That was enough to get me on the path to healthy diet and working out. I hope no one ever needs to hear that they won’t live to see their children graduate college to get off their butts.
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