A couple who plays together stays together

Sep 09, 2014 10:36 AM Back

As the age old saying goes, "A couple who plays together stays together." Imagine what would happen if a couple committed to exercising on a regular basis together. Working out together can do wonders for your relationship, your body, and your overall health. Believe it or not, it can even improve your communication skills with your significant other.

When you choose to exercise with your spouse or partner, there is a "special" someone there holding you accountable. This person is "special" because he or she knows you and your daily habits better than anyone else. Chances are, they will know when you are making excuses to avoid exercise and they will also know when you need a little extra push or motivation. Generally, couples who exercise together will work out longer and harder than if each person were working out alone. Working out together will also promote a healthier lifestyle. When a spouse or partner witnesses the other person working out and eating healthy, it's only human nature for the other person to desire or want to be a part of the same lifestyle. After all, who really enjoys eating pizza and ice cream alone???

There are many benefits of exercising with your spouse or partner. The two of you are possibly at different fitness levels. You may even have different goals, but that doesn't mean that you can't exercise together. There are plenty of reasons to give it a try:
- Safety. Your spouse or partner can monitor your form, and he or she is there to spot you when necessary. You will be able to exercise more safely and more effectively than if you were alone. Besides, who cares more about your safety and watches your back better than your soul-mate?
- Quality Time. Couples spend a majority of their time apart due to careers and other responsibilities. Why not plan a workout time that fits both of your schedules instead of going to the gym alone? You can reach your fitness goals without sacrificing the quality time that is crucial to each and every relationship.
- A Common Interest. Add working out to your list of shared interests and hobbies. Exercise is one of the many new and unique activities couples use to keep things fun, healthy, challenging, and exciting. You can never have too much in common.
- Motivation & Support. Receiving positive reinforcement and praise from your spouse or partner is one of the best motivators there is. It will encourage both of you to remain consistent and to continue to support one another in the gym as well as at home.
- A Deeper Bond. Exercise produces chemicals in the brain that reduce stress, and also increase arousal and libido. Husbands and wives who exercise regularly report that they enjoy a little extra (ahem) cardiovascular training (at home).
- Respect & Pride. When you respect the overall health of your body, and take pride in looking and feeling great, you are showing the person you care about that you want to be your best for them.
- Balance. With most couples, one person tends to favor cardio (mainly women) while the other person tends to favor strength training (typically men). By working out together the two of you can balance your workout program to include more of both.

Article written by: Amy Llinas Lynch

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