Buddy training can be one of the best ways to stay consistent. It is harder to cancel, easier to push through tough moments, and usually a lot more enjoyable when someone else is right there burning with you. However, a buddy session only works when both people make it a good experience. So here are a few things not to do if you want your buddy sessions to actually work.

Do not turn the workout into a marathon of complaints Yes, the workout is hard. Yes, you are tired. Yes, there are burpees.

All of that is valid. What doesn’t help is moaning about every ache, rep, and inconvenience out loud for the entire session.

Constant complaining pulls the energy down and can make the workout feel unbearable for the other person.

If something is genuinely hurting, and you know the difference, definitely speak up. But everyone has a tough day once in a while, and making the session miserable for your partner is not a vibe.

Do not forget that motivation goes both ways

Buddy training is about lifting each other up, not dragging each other down.

Find ways to motivate each other through the session A quick “great job,” a laugh, or even a shared look or joke about the trainer doing the absolute most, can change the whole mood.

The goal is to encourage each other, not make your partner dread showing up.

Do not mentally check out halfway through

Training with a buddy does not mean one person works while the other just survives.

Zoning out, skipping reps, or barely moving through the entire workout affects the whole session. You do not have to be perfect, but you do need to stay engaged and try.

Effort matters, especially when someone else is putting in the work too.

Do not turn it into a competition

Working out is not about who lifts heavier, finishes faster, or looks less tired. Buddy sessions are not meant to be a show-off session.

Different bodies with different strengths are expected. Support each other instead of trying to outdo each other.

Do not stay completely silent either

You do not need to be a motivational speaker, but total silence can feel awkward. A little encouragement, a giggle, or just simply checking in along the way makes the session more enjoyable for everyone.

Do not forget why you signed up together

Joining a buddy session is a great way to share the cost of a personal trainer.

However you may have also joined a buddy session for accountability and motivation. That means showing up on time, staying present, and respecting the session you committed to.

At the end of the day, buddy training works best when both people bring effort, encouragement, and a positive mindset.

Try and push each other in a gentle way. And remember, you are on the same team, even when the workout feels personal.

Enjoy your buddy sessions and B-Active For Life!

• Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook