Personal Trainer Exchange Program

Personal trainers are effective. But they are also expensive. I would imagine that this high cost is directly tied to their value to whoever is paying them. But the reality is not everyone can afford it. I do know, however, that having someone push you to exercise makes a huge difference.

So today's idea is to form some sort of personal training buddy system. Ideally, it would be a pair; you and one other. You would alternate days of being each other's personal trainer. You push them hard so they'll push you hard and hopefully you'll both end up with the results you want.

This needs to go beyond two people working out. I feel like this would work best if you didn't know the person that well. Less worry about hurting the other person's feelings or changing the dynamic of a friendship. When you are together, it is to exercise.

I realize you have to be trained to be a real live actual personal trainer, but there are still lots of encouraging things you can yell. And if you both agree to a specific program, then whoever is acting trainer can make sure you stick to it.

I know this isn't groundbreaking. But it is a formal agreement to meet and take turns alternating the hard and easy parts (whichever you think is which). I really feel like the different roles is the key. You don't have to dread the next day, because it will be different than whatever you're doing righ then.

It's a lot cheaper, too. And possibly even more effective.