We’ve often been told that having a diet and fitness buddy makes a difference. A fitness buddy can be an accountability partner, a source of inspiration, and someone to work out and discuss health strategies with. But it also matters who you choose.  We’re not all compatible with just about anyone out there for fitness.

• Some people are all talk and no action.
• Some people don’t respond well to nudging or constructive motivational techniques.
• Maybe we don’t respond well to certain types of motivational techniques.

Here are some tips to help you find a good fitness buddy:

• Choose someone with a similar schedule. If you work daytime hours and your fitness buddy works the graveyard shift, it won’t be easy to connect.
• If you are considering someone, talk things over to see if you both have similar goals in mind. If you’re more interested in getting fit and your buddy simply wants to cut calories, you may or may not be a good fit.
• Pick a fitness friend who lives nearby or one you work with so you can strategize frequently, take walks together, meet up at the gym, and so on.

Don’t Put all Your Fitness Eggs in One Basket

Your fitness buddy can be a great source of motivation and inspiration but we don’t all have the same reactions to lifestyle changes. Don’t let your buddy’s lack of mojo stifle your abilities, either.  If you rely too much on one person, you’re both going to be less likely to succeed. Consider an online support group, as well.  Many people join fitness forums and blogs to discuss progress with others who are striving for the same or similar goals.  A benefit to an online group is that you can share at any time of the day or night.

A virtual support group plus one or two (or a few) fitness friends in your daily life could be great in terms of accountability and motivation for you.