Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, I believe everyone needs a support system in their lives, especially when it comes to their journey to fitness. As a human being, we need a community – a group of people who share common traits or interests – to help and motivate us to achieve our goals. Maybe that means losing a few pounds, training to compete for a marathon or generally to live a healthier lifestyle.

Here are my tips on building your fitness team!

Talk about your interests

I’m not a mind-reader, are you? My point is that you never know if your friend, work colleague or someone you just met is interested or has insights into your chosen activity. Maybe they would like to make a change too, have some tips, selling their sports equipment or know a trainer offering a discount for private sessions. You never know!

Make friends

Did you join a gym, sports team or running on your own? Get to know the other students in your class, hang out with your team after the game or say hello to other runners on your regular route. Familiarity helps build confidence.

You can also do this online and join a community like a forum, local Facebook group or simply competing with your friends on an app. By taking the time to make friends online or offline, it makes you accountable – inevitably, they’ll ask where you’ve been if you haven’t gone to class in a week…

Talk to your doc

Pretty basic, but your doctor should know what kind of physical activities you’re undertaking. Give them a heads up and see what they have to say. Maybe they’ll want to run a few tests, have suggestions or even help you keep track of your progress!

Find specialists

Since starting CrossFit almost two years ago, I’ve curated a group of wellness professionals that I see on a regular basis that help restore my body for next workout. If you have supplemental insurance coverage and medical professionals fees are covered, do some research and go see them! They can assist with x-rays, assess your body’s current state, diagnose problems and provide solutions.

Personally, I find manual manipulation to be the most effective for muscle recovery. On a bi-weekly basis, I visit my chiropractor, physiotherapist and registered massage therapist. On this schedule, we’re able to address issues relatively quickly such as posture, aches or injuries.

So who’s on your team? You can count me in!