On KVUE 24 news Monday evening I caught the tail end of a story about Austin-based ExerciseFriends.com. A great idea for those new to the area as well as long-time residents looking to find someone that shares their interest in exercise and fitness or is in need of the same motivation to get up and get moving. It's not a dating service but it works in a similiar fashion. Instead of matching up folks looking for love it's for matching up folks looking for an exercise partner - for free. Find someone in your area, interested in the same activity - such as walking, biking, working out at the gym, tennis, or just about any fitness activity you can think of. If you've wanted to get involved in the Mayor's Austin in Motion challenge but have trouble staying motivated, perhaps meeting an exercise friend online will help you get moving.

• Press: KVUE 24, 5/25/05 Web site finds workout partners
  "Exercise is often easier said than done, although excuses to skip it can come easily..." (online video at KVUE.com)

• Press: Austin-American Statesman, 5/30/05 Site plays matchmaker for exercise buddies
  "Patrick McCluskey launched the Austin-based ExerciseFriends Web site in September. He got the idea after moving from Austin to California..."

• Safety: About Walking, How to Safely Meet New Walking Friends
  No matter what activity or how you meet, Guide Wendy Bumgardner advises that when meeting up with a new exercise partner you "treat it like a blind date."

• Resources: Fitness / Outdoor Sports & Recreation in Austin
  Ride a bike, climb a cliff, skate, walk, or otherwise get outside and get fit with these (usually) individual sports and recreational activities in Austin.

• Resources: Gyms, Health Clubs, Fitness Centers
  Help Austin keep its title as one of the nation's fittest cities. Get in shape at one of these area gyms and fitness centers. Find an exercise facility, yoga or Pilates class, weight room, or indoor track to suit your lifestyle and budget.

• Resources: Outdoor Recreation Clubs
  Join a club and get out of the house. These groups provide social outings, special events, and educational opportunities for different types of outdoor recreational activities in Austin and Central Texas.