Check out this very recent article:
http://psp.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/36/2/251
If you don't have access, at least you can get the gist from the abstract.
These studies address the influence of those around you. It begs the question: who do you yoke yourself to?
A summary of this research: apparently if you are around those who practice healthy living you are more apt to do the same - and vice versa. More specifically, the studies strongly suggest that the underpinnings of self-control are influenced significantly by thinking about the behavior and actions of those around you. Everyone likes to think they are above the influence of others, but even if it is slight or subconscious/accidental, we are influenced by those with whom we are yoked, and those we interact with and think about. In other words, self-control, and/or a deficiency of self control is somewhat contagious. Obesity, for example, tends to spread itself through human networks. Exercising works the same way.
A real-life example from today? A friend of mine posted on Facebook how she was sore after an abs workout. She got a bunch of replies [including from me] from friends who were motivated to workout today because they saw her post. Well, if you want some real-life research about how this works, check out the article.
My simple advice: hang out with those who workout and eat healthy. You can be a good influence on them too. :) -cb
