Lifting each other up – because fitness is better when you’re in it together. Knowing how to support a friend or family member on their fitness journey can make all the difference.
At Fitness n Motion Health Centre (FNM), we’re more than a gym—we’re a community. And when someone in your circle takes a leap towards better health, it’s a big deal. Whether they’re trying to move more, eat better, or just feel stronger, supporting a friend or family member on their fitness journey can make all the difference.
Here’s how you can show up for them—with kindness, good vibes, and zero pressure.
What to Say (And What Not To)
You don’t need to be a fitness expert to be a great support system. You just need to say the right things—and avoid the wrong ones.
Say things like:
- “I’m proud of you for starting.”
- “Let me know how I can help.”
- “You’ve got this—one day at a time.”
- “Want to go for a walk or stretch together?”
Avoid saying:
- “You should try this diet or that class.”
- “Are you allowed to eat that?”
- “You’ll lose weight if you just do this.”
- “Don’t you think you’ve done enough today?”
See the difference? Support means cheering them on without controlling the game. Firstly, be their hype squad, not their coach (unless they specifically asked for one). Additionally, supporting someone doesn’t have to mean standing on the sidelines. Instead, get in on the action together! In fact, it’s a fantastic way to support a friend or family member on their fitness journey.
Moreover, here are some fun, pressure-free ways to move as a team:
- Take a class at FNM together—try a cardio option, a light weights class, or something completely new.
- Plan an active catch-up—instead of coffee, suggest a walk, stretch session, or even a casual swim.
- Join a challenge together—These are great for motivation and a bit of fun.
- Make it social—invite others for a park walk, a Sunday yoga session, or a group class followed by smoothies.
When fitness feels social and fun, it becomes something to look forward to—not just another item on a to-do list.
Encourage Without Pressure
This one’s huge. Firstly, there’s a fine line between encouraging and pushing—and secondly, crossing it can backfire fast. Therefore, it’s important to be mindful of your approach.
Ask yourself: Are you helping them feel confident, or simply reminding them what they haven’t done yet? In other words, it’s crucial to know how to support a friend or family member on their fitness journey without crossing boundaries. Ultimately, respecting their space is key to providing effective and positive support.
Here’s how to keep it supportive:
- Celebrate small wins. “You went three times this week? That’s awesome!”
- Be patient. Everyone’s pace is different—and that’s okay.
- Offer, don’t insist. “Want to go to that class again?” works better than “You should go back.”
- Stay off the scales. This isn’t your journey, so don’t comment on weight, size, or appearance unless they bring it up.
At FNM, we see every fitness journey as personal. Furthermore, progress isn’t always about numbers. Instead, it’s about showing up, feeling good, and keeping at it.
Share Your Own Journey—The Right Way
If you’re on your own health journey, you’ve got something powerful to offer: your experience. But the way you share it matters. It can be a meaningful way to support a friend or family member on their fitness journey.
- Be honest. Talk about your struggles as much as your wins.
- Stay humble. Don’t position your routine as “the right” way—it’s just your way.
- Don’t compare. Your story is yours; theirs is theirs.
- Be real. No filters, no “I just woke up like this” nonsense.
And remember, your progress isn’t a competition. The goal is to inspire, not to intimidate.
Final Thoughts: Be Their Person
You don’t need to run marathons or count macros to support someone on their fitness journey. You just need to care, listen, and show up.
At FNM, we believe movement is for everybody—and every body. So next time your mate signs up for a class, hits the gym, or talks about eating better, give them what they really need: a smile, some encouragement, and maybe a high five. Supporting a friend or family member on their fitness journey begins with simple actions like these.
Because when we lift each other up, we all rise together.
P.S. Looking for a way to support a friend? Bring them along to FNM for a casual class or a friendly chat. Our doors are open—and so are our hearts.
Click here to read more about 10 Essential Tips for Starting Your Fitness Journey.
