Studies show that going to the gym with a friend will improve performance and that an accountability partner is good for keeping you committed — but there are lots of different people you find at the gym. So how do you find the perfect gym buddy?
1. Jillian Michaels
You told this girl your dream of having an inner thigh gap, and now she’s made it her mission to aggressively (yet effectively) get you there. She won’t let you quit and she’s not quick to compliment, but if you have tough skin and a laziness issue, she’s your go-to.
2. The Positivity Pusher
She swipes into the gym at 6 am, fun workout playlist and pinterest fitspo at hand. She is pumped about the plank and talks you through the whole workout. “Think about how good we’re gonna look on spring break!” “You can do anything for 10 seconds!” Not to mention, she’s never judgmental when you don’t meet your push-up goal, and always encourages you that improvement is more important than perfection.
3. The Lazy
Maybe she has a naturally high metabolism, or maybe she just comes to the gym to meet jocks, but either way she is having none of your suggestion to run a mile. She either complains or just does what’s easy for her. She’s great if you want to have a casual day at the gym and feel really good about your own progress.
4. The Hardo
She only goes to the gym about once a week, so when she does, she goes HARD. I’m talking four-hour long sessions of cardio, abs, arms, legs — the whole sha-bang! While you admire her for her "go hard or go home attitude," you’ve been to the gym Monday to Thursday, so if you’re not up for a marathon on Friday, she can’t really blame you.
5. The Competitor
This one brings out the less positive side of your personality, but also brings you the best results. You run your mile faster than ever, you bench way harder than you have been, and you even make it a point to wear your nice lulu leggings — but also you are the most sore you’ve ever been the day after.
6. The Focuser
The Focuser shouldn’t really have a gym buddy. Headphones in, blank stares, the occasional deep exhale — this one's got the game face on. You honestly might as well not even be there. 
