How to Find Your Diet Buddy

“When you’re adopting a whole new lifestyle, it absolutely helps to be going through it with someone else in the same situation,” says L.A.-based fitness consultant Ashley Borden.

But how do you suss out your ideal match? Follow this checklist: First and foremost, “choose someone who truly wants you to succeed,” says Borden. “You’re looking for companionship — not competition.”

• Make sure you and your buddy are on the same page about what your partnership should be. Will you be working out together? Swapping recipes? Chatting only? Be specific about your needs and wants.

• Schedule times to check in — either via e-mail, phone or text message. “Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom or an office worker, you need to structure regular check-ins into your calendar,” says Borden.

• “Start out with a two-week trial basis,” advises Borden. That way, if either of you feels the partnership isn’t working, you can make adjustments.