Key Takeaways
- Restarting a workout routine can be tough after life changes disrupt habits.
- Enlisting a friend helps create accountability and makes workouts less intimidating.
- Having a workout partner supports consistency and introduces variety, easing the overwhelm.
- Stay PEF (positive, enthusiastic, and focused) to make workouts enjoyable and achieve your goals.
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Getting back into a workout routine can be challenging, especially when life changes interrupt habits that once felt easy.
For me, restarting was not just about finding the time again; it was about finding the motivation to show up consistently.
By enlisting a friend, you can make the process feel less intimidating, create accountability, and build a routine that is easier to maintain.
Schedule Change:
I used to work out for an hour every morning.
It was easy. I would roll out of bed and use my home gym.
But then my schedule changed. I had an aging dog that required more time, especially in the morning.
Even after my dog passed away, returning to my workout routine was still challenging.
At first, I assumed that once my schedule opened back up, I would naturally return to the same routine.
Instead, I realized that the habit had been interrupted long enough that I needed a new way to restart.
What had once felt automatic now required intention, flexibility, and a little outside encouragement.
Enlisting A Friend:
It all started when a friend invited me to join her yoga class.
I had recently mentioned that my doctor recommended yoga to help relieve tension-related neck pain, so the invitation felt like the right opportunity at the right time.
The week we talked, I actually had time to take the class with her.
It’s been a while since I’ve taken a class, so I was anxious.
Having a friend involved changed the experience before I even walked into the studio.
Knowing someone was expecting me made it harder to cancel, and having a familiar face there made the class feel less intimidating.
Instead of focusing on how long it had been since I last exercised in a group setting, I could simply focus on showing up.
The instructor was great – she explained everything easily. And the class had many other beginners, so I didn’t feel awkward.
It really was the perfect class for me.
Increased Motivation:
Taking the class together increased our motivation.
We explored other classes offered, including Pilates, spin, and stretching.
We both have busy schedules, but we’ve been able to motivate each other to attend at least one class a week.
It helps me add variety to what I’m doing at home.
It also gives me time to stay connected with my friend.
Some weeks, the class is the only structured workout I fit in outside of my home routine.
Other weeks, it becomes the spark that gets me moving more often.
Either way, having one class on the calendar gives me a realistic goal and helps me rebuild consistency without feeling overwhelmed.
If you need help getting back into or starting a workout routine, enlist a friend.
The right person can help you show up, try something new, and stay committed when motivation fades.
A workout partner does more than keep you accountable; they can make the process more enjoyable, more consistent, and more connected.
Stay PEF (positive, enthusiastic, and focused), and make 2026 your best year ever!
(Update to original post from August 4, 2023)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC (TransitionPG®). She believes life is more than accumulating money – it’s about living the lifestyle you envision and can afford. Niv incorporates all aspects of life when discussing money. She developed the 5 P’s of Life (Personal Relationships, Personal Finance, Profession, Peace of Mind, and Physical Health) to help clients define what they want from life. Once she understands their vision, she helps them achieve their lifestyle or adjust their expectations based on their finances. Niv actively gives back to the community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, exploring the world, and laughing often—even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’” Click HERE to read where she’s been quoted in the media.
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