Train with a small group this year. Your focus, motivation, accountability and fun levels will go up if you do. Check out the research below:
“Group Training is Better: Fortunately, working out with others is also more fun, as researchers found by studying elite male rowers at Oxford University. The rowers first exercised on a rowing machine in the company of their teammates; the next day, they performed the same workout at the same intensity, but by themselves. After each session, researchers tested the pain tolerance of each of the athletes, finding a higher pain tolerance when the rowers worked out together. The researchers concluded that exercising with others enhances the release of the pain-suppressing (and happiness-inducing) chemicals in your brain." (1)
Working out with a small group creates accountability through a positive form of peer pressure. I see the small groups of three people working out inside of infrared saunas at HOTWORX studios all the time. They have a lot of fun while they motivate each other and hold each other accountable.
For better results this year, train with a small group!
Steve
