Monday, February 23, 2015

DOES YOUR ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER PASS THE FIT TEST?


In fitness, working out with other like-minded people is a great way to stay in shape.  For many, having someone to lean on when you need that extra boost keeps you motivated, focused and challenged. 

At Bfit Athletic Club we encourage everyone to have at least one accountability partner and we take the role of “AP” very seriously. These people are the ones that help keep you committed.  They call you to find out why you’re not in class, they offer words of encouragement when you just don’t feel like it and they motivate and challenge you to do your best.

That’s why it’s very important whom you select as your AP.   It should be someone who knows how to inspire you to make the right decisions and although your best friend is fun to hang out with, they may not be the ideal choice for the job.  This person should not be your enabler.  The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines an enabler as, “one that enables another to achieve an end; especially:  one who enables another to persist in self-destructive behavior (as substance abuse) by providing excuses or by making it possible to avoid the consequences of such behavior’. In other words, if you were a recovering addict, your former drug dealer as your AP would not be the best selection.

To help you find that right person, I have devised a test with 5 questions and answers.  This test will help you determine if the person you are considering is an enabler or if they would make a great accountability partner.  Ask your prospect each question with the two choice answers to pick from.  Here they are:

1.) It’s cold outside.  I think I’ll stay home, light the fireplace and watch TV.  So are you going to class?
a.  No I like your plan better.  You pick the movie and I’ll bring the popcorn.
b.  Of course! If we wait for the perfect weather, we may never reach our fitness goals.

2.) I had a long day at work. I’m dead tired and I just want to   sleep.  So are you going to workout tonight?
a.  No that bed sounds real good right now.  Call me and wake me up when Empire comes on TV.  I hate to miss that show.
b.  Of course! Working out will help us feel energized and alive!

3.) Hey I know it’s last minute but I’m not going to class today.  I just remembered I think I have an appointment.  Are you going to go?
a.  Nah, I think I have an appointment too.
b.  Of course! Making excuses will only delay our fitness goals.

4.) Help!  I want a 2nd slice of this delicious cake.  Should I or shouldn’t I?
a.  Yes! go ahead, have your cake and eat it too!  While you’re at it, cut me a slice.
b.  No! We’ve been working hard all month and it’s starting to show.  Why waste all that hard work on cake?  Put the fork down and step away from the cake.

5.) Working out takes time and money.  I can think of other things I could do with both.  How about you?
a.  I agree, I don’t feel like spending the time or the money.
b.  I make time because being fit is a lifestyle that I embrace for myself and my family.   The cost is worth it compared to the costs for the medical treatments and medications from living an unhealthy lifestyle.

How did they score? If your prospect selected more “A” answers than “B”, keep moving because they are probably not your best choice.  If your prospect selects more B’s, then congratulations, he/she will be a great accountability partner. 

Now just a couple of things to note. You and your accountability partner are a team.  The support should not be one-sided.  You must do your part and have your partner’s back also.  Most of all, having someone to lean on for support is great but it does not replace personal responsibility.  Ultimately it is up to you to make the commitment and do the work necessary to reach your personal fitness goals.

At Bfit Athletic Club we are dedicated to getting you results.  We have classes for all fitness levels.  Contact us at 770-845-0527 and ask about our new member special.

Join the MOVEment, Commit to Bfit

Nancy
NASM CPT
CF-L1    

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