Training partner vs Training alone (lifting, gym, workout, eating)

[1orlando]

Which one do you prefer.

[wutitiz]

The Kenyans have proven that even in a seeming solitary sport like distance running, group training yields superior results. But it's too much hassle for me to find a suitable group and schedule around it, so I do all running on my own.

[football45013]

Alone. First of all, the last thing I want to be doing while running is talking. I never could understand how people can talk to each other while running. I'm trying to catch my breath and the last thing I'm able to do is talk. I also get into a zone, so I can't be talking while in that zone. Also, when running alone, I can set my own pace and don't have to worry about keeping up with or losing my running partner. Finally, I'm always listening to my Ipod anyways and that's enough to keep me motivated and occupied while running.

[caligirlz]

I would never push myself beyond my lifting capabilities without the assurance of having my trainer right there. I haven't found friends to be as knowledgable or helpful. All of my (non-gym) women friends, and a guy I referred to my trainer are woosies.

[Dub D]

Alone. However, when I do my chest...I'd be cool if I did have a partner. I hate asking for spotters from random people. Anytime I work out with friends, I tend to start chit chatting and not completing my workout.

When I was into running. In a group but NOT talking. That way if one of us start slacking, we egg them on to keep up.

[Pikake]

I prefer to train alone, zone out, and focus. Ex husband was a personal trainer and I learned a lot from him. All exes, aren't useless

[jbub22]

No trainers! A waste of money. I train in a group everyday with no members. Everyday I race someone in the gym (whoever is next to me). Why complicate things by formally creating a group or hire a trainer, i.e. oh gosh, Jon is running late, why is Steve half-stepping today, Lori is being a _______.

[TabulaRasa]

I work out alone...no interest in doing it with others. My boyfriend asks why I don't run with him...but we would be poorly matched. I would slow him down, he'd eventually go on on his own, and I'd be running on my own, anyway...plus, our preferences for what time of day, and length of workout don't match. We used to at least go to the gym at the same time, but I'd still be wanting to go do my swim and he'd be all ready to go.

[hooligan]

I workout alone at times, but I find I push myself harder and am less apt to blow off a workout if I'm working with a group or partner.

[locolobo13]

Both. Think about it. Training with a group allows you to see and learn from others. The right words can motivate you to pass barriers in your training. Or the right words can keep you safe. In addition it allows you to help and teach others as well. Sometimes you learn more from helping others than from being helped.

At the same time we are each at our own level. We need to push ourselves at that level. Learning to discipline yourself when nobody else is watching is important. Learning to get thru your problems on your own gives you a strong feeling of confidence. I think there is a place for both in our lives.