Get fit with a friend part 2

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Here are Angie's five golden rules:

Pick your exercise buddy carefully: Make sure she really does have the same goals as you and isn't going to sabotage your efforts. How well do you know her? Will she enjoy the same activities? Can you genuinely support each other? A bit of healthy competition is good. It will make you push yourself that little bit further.

Share costs: Most gyms have personal trainers. Share one and it will be half the price. Just one or two sessions with an expert will show you how to train together properly and maximise the effort you're making.

Plan in advance: Make exercise dates with your mate. Arrange regular and realistic times to meet and make sure you stick to it. Remember, you'll be letting your friend down if you don't.

Have weekly weigh-ins: Set targets and goals so you can monitor each other's progress. Have a weekly weigh-in or set personal bests every time you meet to get fit. You're much more likely to improve every week if you know someone else will be looking over your shoulder, monitoring your progress.

Feel the fear together: Exercise phobic? You aren't alone. Walking into a gym or mirror-clad exercise class isn't half as intimidating if you've got a pal at your side. And remember, the more often you go, the easier it will get.