When we look in the mirror, we tend to focus on the parts of our body we want to change rather than the parts we should celebrate.  Many women (and men) can relate to the feeling of wanting to lose that excess weight, whether it be in the arms or thighs.  The term thigh gap, used to describe the space between your inner thighs, once dominated social media with images of users trying to achieve a sometimes impossible and unhealthy task through exercise and diet.  Since then, the hashtag #StrongIsTheNewSexy, has taken over to promote a more positive view on body image.

In this BuzzFeed video, the creators continue to promote this healthier view of the body by asking men what they think about the thigh gap debate.  Not surprisingly, all the guys agree that women look beautiful, whether their thighs are touching or not.  One man said, "Usually I am looking for what is there and not what is not there," while another remarked, "I'm imagining all the women I've had the privilege of seeing naked ... I can't recall a single thigh gap." Their humorous revelations remind us that we shouldn't obsess over our thighs (or any other parts of our body) because no one cares.  Not even the guys.

Just because we outgrew the buddy system in elementary school doesn't mean we need to ditch the idea completely, especially when it comes to working out.  Finding the motivation to exercise is hard.  Very hard.  And after a long day at work, all you want to do is Pitch Perfect character Fat Amy's favorite exercise — horizontal running.  To avoid this, however, make a date with your BFF next time you plan to exercise.  The buddy gym date is practically foolproof because once you make a plan with a good friend, it's much harder to back out last minute.  And if you do, you know they will bring it up next time.  Keep reading to see the benefits of dragging your BFF to the gym.

1. You Have a Personal Motivator

Image Source:  Lionsgate

When you're thinking about giving up on that last lap, just look over to your partner in crime.

2. And a Competitor

Image Source:  ABC

Who doesn't get a little competitive at the gym?  One more sit-up won't hurt you.

3. You Always Have a Spotter

Image Source:  Paramount Pictures

You'll never have to worry about being crushed with a heavyweight.

4. You Guys Can Coordinate Workout Outfits

Image Source:  Warner Bros.

OK, you and your friend probably won't do this.  But you have the option to.

5. You Have Someone to Talk (or Rant) To

Image Source:  Bravo

Stretch time is much more fun when you spend it swapping juicy stories.

6. You Can Choose Fun Workout Classes Together

Image Source:  Giphy

Pole-dance workouts by yourself?  No way.  But with a friend, YASSS.

7. You Can Scope Out Hot People at the Gym Together

Image Source:  Comedy Central

A little bonding time over eye candy never hurts a friendship.

8. You Can Make Workouts a Date

Image Source:  Bravo

Making a gym date with your BFF is the new brunch date, minus the calories.

9. You'll Grow Closer to Your BFF

Image Source:  Giphy

Nothing says best friends forever like seeing (and accepting) each other at your sweatiest, grossest state.

10. You Can Finally Test Out Intimidating Machines

Image Source:  Giphy

With your friend by your side, anything is possible.  Even getting on a SoulCycle bike.

11. You Can Track Your Progress Together

Image Source:  Fox

There's no need to invest in fitness trackers.  Your BFF won't hold back on the positive comments.

12. You Have Someone to Text the Next Day About Post-Workout Pains

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Because no one else will understand why you're limping in the office.

13. You Have Someone to Eat With After Surviving CrossFit

Image Source:  Warner Bros.

Chipotle?  Yes, please.

Let's face it, sometimes running is the worst.  When the motivation just isn't striking, what you need is a hilarious message to get you going.  These supercute tees are basically mind readers — run now, wine later, right?  Treat yourself with one of these graphic workout shirts, and you'll be motivated to hit the pavement or show it off at the gym.

Run like Benedict Cumberbatch is waiting ($27)

Slower than Internet Explorer ($24, originally $29)

Forget skinny! ($24, originally $29)

Run like zombies are behind you ($22, originally $27)

Train like you're in the Hunger Games ($24, originally $29)

Run now, wine later ($22, originally $27)

Run hard, eat cupcakes ($20, originally $24)

I run because I really like beer ($28)

Slower than a herd of turtles ($22, originally $27)

Cardio is cheaper than therapy ($15)

Run like Nick Cage ($20, originally $28)

I hate running, but I really like pizza ($24)

You're welcome ($20, originally $28)

Game of Thrones badass Daenerys Targaryen has been one of my favourite characters since the very first season.  She is mentally strong as an ox and does not back down in the face of pressure.  The next time those final reps or that last kilometre feels impossible, channel your inner Khaleesi.  It's weird, but it works.

When you complete your first kilometre and start to hit your stride.

Image Source:  HBO

When you've been waiting in line for a piece of equipment and a rude human tries to cut ahead of you.

Image Source:  HBO

When someone at the gym tries to hit on you and messes with your workout flow.

Image Source:  HBO

When you don't want to go to yoga (but know that you should).

Image Source:  HBO

When some gym bro is so impressed that you ran that far, lifted than much, (insert stereotype here) even though you're a woman.

Image Source:  HBO

When your strength and stamina have improved, and you get ready to try a heavier set of weights.

Image Source:  HBO

You might not have dragons, but you're a workout queen.

Image Source:  HBO

When you have just a little longer to go and feel like you're fading, think of Khaleesi.

Image Source:  HBO

Also, don't forget about Brienne of Tarth.  She's pretty awesome, too.

Image Source:  HBO

I love working out in the morning (when I can actually get up).  It starts my day out on strong, energized notes, and it cuts most excuses out of the equation.  However, waking up, heading to a group fitness class, then heading straight to the office can prove to be a little bit of a juggling act.

Packing your work bag the night before can be a little stressful.  What are all the things I need for the next 14 hours?

Image Source:  Reddit user scottyr16

Once you set your alarm, the anxiety sets in.  Why can't I ever fall asleep when I need to be up early?

Image Source:  Hyperbole and a Half

It's 6 a.m. already?!  Did I even sleep?

Image Source:  Reddit user Haavik

Why does getting out of bed always have to be so hard?

Image Source:  Tumblr user adorable-gifs

Definitely stayed under the covers for too long.  Now it's time to rush like a crazy person to my class.

Image Source:  Disney

Once you head to class, the lights are blinding.  Is it always so bright in this studio?

Image Source:  Fox

Why didn't I make time for coffee?  I could really use a little boost right now.

Image Source:  Sony Pictures

Why are all these people talking so loudly?  Don't they know it's early?

Image Source:  Reddit user Nugatorysurplusage

OK, I'm here, and I'm here to sweat.  Let's get this started.

Image Source:  Paramount Pictures

Now I remember.  Working out in the morning is awesome.

Image Source:  YouTube user beyoncevevo

I could have slept but I got my ass out of bed and made myself a priority.  This girl is on fire.

Image Source:  HBO

In dire need of a fan.  I need to cool off before heading into that crazy locker room ...

Image Source:  Reddit user Vondi

How many people are supposed to be in here at once?!  What is happening?  Why is this so hard?

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Why am I still sweating?  Why is my face so red?  I just showered!

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So fresh, so clean.  Now time to grab my three bags and run to the train.

Image Source:  Fox Searchlight

I made it!  And damn I feel good.  Today is going to be awesome.

Image Source:  Fox