I don’t know about you, but I keep hearing more and more about partner training and small group training. It actually brings a little smile to my face every time I hear or read something about it. You know why? … Because we’re already doing this at The Train Station!!

Those of you who train with us know that we are pros when it comes to partner training! In my opinion, partner training (2 clients, 1 trainer) is the best way to train. Yes, we have clients who prefer the standard one-on-one personal training experience and there is nothing wrong with that! However, partner training and small group training are BIG right now, and for good reason! Accountability, motivation, camaraderie, and cost, just to name a few.

Personal training offers the accountability that most clients are seeking, but partner training takes it to the next level. Having an appointment with your trainer can keep you from skipping a workout. Now, add a second person expecting you to be there and you’ll hopefully be even less likely to skip the workout! Skipping fewer workouts can lead to consistency. Consistent workouts make you more likely to stay on track with your cardio and diet. You know where I’m going with this, right?… Consistency = Results!

What if accountability isn’t your problem? Either your partner and/or trainer are enough to get you into the gym, or you wouldn’t skip a workout unless you were admitted to the hospital (an exaggeration, but you know who you are!). Believe it or not, there is still something to gain from having a partner. Any type of training partner, whether it’s a strength training partner or a walking buddy, can push you beyond your limits. A partner can bring out the competitive side of you and motivate you to complete those last few reps or push you to keep up your walking/jogging pace when you might otherwise quit early or slow down if you were alone. They are also there to empathize with you on days you’re certain your trainer is out to get you! 😉

Not only is it good to have a “partner in crime”, as one client of mine recently put it, but typically, having a partner will lower the cost of your training session as well. Again, making you less likely to ditch the partner who’s depending on you to keep your scheduled workouts… Otherwise they might be paying full price!

My favorite thing about partner training is the camaraderie and healthy competition that arises. I’ve witnessed friendships develop between clients who met simply because they prefer to train at the same time of day and only see each other for 30 minutes a week. I’m not surprised that it is all the rage right now in the fitness industry. I don’t see it changing any time soon, either!

If you haven’t tried partner training yet, maybe you’ll think twice the next time your trainer asks if you’re open to having a partner. It just may be the thing that keeps you going!

Angela