Whether they ride bikes, go for a run or whatever, those interested in having early-morning exercise partners have to make sure of the compatibility factor.

The other person or persons need to be reliable about meeting on time. And it's probably a good idea if everyone is in the same ballpark in terms of fitness.

But it seems like there is another question that needs to be asked: How much talking do we want to do?

Some groups chatter up a storm. It's virtually nonstop conversation. (Though sometimes it appears to be one person doing most of the talking.)

Others roll or run along without a word.

One approach is not inherently better than the other. But they sure are different.

I wonder how many workout-partner relationships have hit the rocks because of disagreement about how much 5 a.m. talk is desired?

Maybe that's why some people prefer to use that time to walk the dog.