Two members of the Community of Strength Project working through a Partner WOD!
Partner workouts – some love them, others dread and avoid them. Partner workouts turn acquaintances into friends, and friends into even better friends. They challenge you physically, while creating community and camaraderie. I always leave the gym after a partner workout feeling happier, healthier, and more fit then when I entered the gym. In this article I am going to address some common concerns and fears that surface when a partner WOD pops up on the blog at 8:00pm, and why you SHOULDN’T let these things prevent you from coming in to hit a partner WOD.
When partner WOD’s contain something that is a weakness, you might be afraid that you will slow your partner down. Just as you shouldn’t avoid your goats in normal workouts you shouldn’t avoid them in partner workouts either. Maybe you have a partner who is awesome at a movement which is a weakness of yours. Instead of stressing about slowing them down, use the opportunity to learn from your partner, ask for advice on how you can move better.
Partner WODs are programmed with the intent to be challenging for both partners regardless of skill level. I have done partner workouts with individuals who have far surpassed my athletic capabilities, and others who are brand new to CrossFit. Whether my partner is faster or slower than I am I always get a great workout. When I am paired with someone who is faster and stronger than me, it pushes me to do more unbroken reps and possibly at a higher weight than maybe I thought I could. If I work with someone who is more of a beginner, I have the opportunity to push and motivate them. Maybe I get longer periods of rest, but that just means I can push myself harder during the work I complete. Believe me this does not slow me down or make it any “easier” of a workout.
Another reason why some people fear partner workouts is not knowing who their partner will be. Maybe you have that one friend you text the moment a partner workout comes out and maybe you don’t. I challenge you to embrace the unknown. Show up to a partner workout with an open mind, without a plan, and find a partner who you don’t know. You never know what will happen – maybe you will leave the gym with a new friend, or at least having met a new face in the gym that day.
Partner WODs are meant to build our community just as much as our muscles. They are meant to be a good workout, but more importantly – have fun with it. Don’t stress about being slow, finding a partner, or any of that other stuff. Remember that the best things in life usually occur just outside of our comfort zone. Just show up ready to work and we will take care of the rest.