Friction in Fitness

A little goes a long way

CAPTAIN’S CORNER

What Team Captains Nikki and Ev are talking about

Inspired by the FTC's "click to cancel" rule, which aims to make it easier to cancel subscriptions, we've been thinking about friction — both the good and the bad — and how it plays a role in fitness.

Sometimes in fitness, reducing friction is key to success. For example:

  • Living close to the gym so there’s no excuse not to go

  • Wearing your workout clothes to bed so you're ready to crush it in the morning

  • Always having a plan before you hit the gym: whether it’s a specific class, meeting a friend, or following a routine. If you don’t have a plan, use a fitness app to guide you

Other times, however, friction is necessary. Think about accountability groups like GOALszn: when someone feels like quitting, a little extra friction could be the nudge they need to stay committed.

Examples of this could be a required exit interview with the captain (in-person or via video) or even a drop-out fee 💸, which we’ve used in the past. We also attach a fee to lowering the amount of weekly workouts you've committed to, which can be just enough deterrent to motivate teammates to hit the gym.

What are some ways you’ve used friction to either keep you on track or remove barriers to success? Don't be shy; hit reply!

THE ROUNDUP

⚖️Speaking of fees, we hate when folks don’t put stuff back where it belongs, but when you're getting sued over rerack fees, have things gone too far? 

✨Sure, treating wellness like a “strategic tool” sounds good — but so does not overworking your employees, which is something fashion companies (and others) have a reputation for doing. Curious who’s actually seen real benefits from wellness plans (besides the gym stipend, which we can all agree is a win)? 

👵For those feeling the signs of aging (morning stiffness, anyone?):  the goal of exercise may have to evolve

👫Exercise has a gender gap. Find out why — and how to close it. hint Accountability is mentioned - our fave word over here!

😷 One key tip missing from secrets of healthy flying (from docs who treat crews): Grab a Purell wipe from the flight attendant and sanitize your seat, tray, and headrest as soon as you sit down.

CHALLENGE

Who's feeling a little silly as the holidays approach? Get inspired by this video and show us your best style run!

If you’re in an active SZN, this is an optional challenge to submit by midnight on November 30.

CHALLENGE WRAP-UP: TRY A FRIEND’S WORKOUT

Keeping fitness fresh is a core value of GOALszn, so the last challenge was to try a friend’s workout you wouldn’t normally do. Curious to hear how everyone felt about it!

Keeping fitness fresh! Jenn’s first time playing pickleball with fellow teammate Nellie, inspired by another szn vet who plays almost every night.

FAKE AD: Medalist Skin

Ev met AnnRagan Kearns McGlone, a former collegiate swimmer and founder of Medalist Skin, at a panel discussing female athletes turned entrepreneurs. These wipes are perfect for those always on the go!

GOALszn: WHAT IS IT?

GOALszn is a game with friends to track the number of workouts completed. Learn more by emailing us

LET’S CONNECT

Follow us on TikTok to find tips on starting your own group, wellness challenges, and more!

REAL WORKOUT SELFIE OF THE WEEK

Volunteering counts as a #Workout in GOALszn because building healthy communities matters on both a micro and macro level. You never know who you'll inspire by giving back!

🔊GOALszn TEAM-SOURCED TUNES 🎵

Need fuel for your pull-up practice? Try our GOALszn Fall 2024 Playlist!

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