By Linda Stollings

After a long run the other day, I popped into the YMCA to take a quick shower and start my training regimen with my clients.

When I was back in the ladies’ locker room I could not help but eavesdrop on some of the conversations that were taking place. There was a group of ladies who had just finished their water exercise class. They were chatting away about their class, naming the ladies that were not there that day.

One of the ladies volunteered to call the missing ones and check up on them. Another lady had brought a card for everyone to sign for one of their exercise buddies who had a death in her family. They chatted for a while, ending the conversation with "Where should we go to lunch today?"

I was so impressed by their concern for one another and the social connection that they had developed by exercising together.

I taught aerobic exercise for 25 years and dearly loved every minute of it. I would not trade anything for all the memories and friendships that were forged over the years. We really had some wonderful times even though we were exercising our butts off (literally). If a "regular" missed more than two classes, she got a phone call and a hard time on her return. It is nice to be missed, even if it is from your exercise buddies.

I now run quite a bit with my running buddies. We run, talk, laugh and occasionally cry, all while we are working out together. We miss each other when someone is out of town and look forward to being together again.

I could certainly stick my earphones in my ears and turn up my iPod, but it never takes the place of running with my friends

If you are having trouble getting consistent with your fitness routine, invite a friend to go with you. It will help in the following ways:

*Instant accountability: If you know you are meeting someone, you will be more likely to show up.
*Motivation: Your exercise buddy or buddies will help to motivate you. When you don’t feel like exercising, they will encourage you and vice versa.

*Social outlet: As you begin to build your relationship, you will begin to do other things together. Like the ladies from the water exercise class, you can plan to have lunch together, shopping or other fun adventures.

*Stress release: Just as exercise is a stress reliever, just talking to someone about your problems can also help relieve stress and help you get a new perspective on your problems.

*Help in time of need: When you need a hand in other aspects of your life, these friends will be the first ones on your porch to lend you a helping hand.

As a personal trainer I enjoy being with my clients to support them in any way I can, not just in the gym but in their lives. I hope that I have helped my clients half as much as they have helped and supported me over the years. So buddy up with some friends and start your fitness routine today.

LINDA STOLLINGS is a personal fitness trainer in Bristol, Tenn. E-mail her at info@fitprescriptions.com or visit www.fitprescriptions.com