From: alexhormozi
Training with a partner offers significant benefits, particularly for individuals who have been in the gym for an extended period, such as over a decade [06:18:20]. These advantages range from increased motivation and better performance to enhanced focus and a more social experience.
Benefits of Training with a Partner
Increased Motivation and Intensity
Many individuals find their motivation wanes when training alone, leading to merely “going through the motions” [06:27:28]. Training with a partner provides the necessary push to train harder [06:29:50]. Alex, for instance, prefers working out with others because it leads to training harder, longer, doing more sets, and likely better form [06:29:50].
Reduced Distractions
When alone in the gym, it’s easy to get sidetracked by “Doom scrolling” on a phone or checking emails [06:32:00]. A partner helps maintain focus on the workout, preventing these common distractions [06:32:00].
Efficient Rest Times
While it might seem counterintuitive to rest less when training with a partner (due to waiting for their set), having a partner often results in less overall rest [07:17:34]. The partner’s set effectively acts as the timer for your rest period [07:22:04]. An optimal rest ratio is approximately two parts rest for one part lifting [07:58:30].
Social Aspect
Training sessions can be categorized into “going in there to die and remove your own soul” and more social training sessions [08:03:00]. Training with a partner often leans towards the latter, allowing for a good workout without feeling completely drained [08:17:00].
Learning from Experience
Training with someone “far ahead of you” is considered “the greatest hack of all time” for both bodybuilding and business [14:59:00]. Significant improvements in physique often occurred when insights were gained from people better than oneself [15:07:00]. Those with decades of experience can immediately spot issues or provide context for advice, offering invaluable lessons without the need for personal “scars” [15:17:00]. This concept aligns with the broader importance of skill acquisition and learning from others’ expertise.
“The greatest hack of all time whether it’s bodybuilding or business is getting with people who are far ahead of you… I’d rather get the lesson without the scar.” [14:59:00]
Balancing Solo and Partner Training
The decision to train with a partner or alone can vary by season, depending on schedule availability and finding compatible training partners [11:29:00]. While there are times when solo training is necessary due to a “crazy” schedule, the preference is strong for training with others due to the increased effort and benefits [11:37:00]. This highlights the value of personal training experiences in shaping preferences and routines.