Working Out With the One You Love

It’s easy to get caught up in your own routine, even when you’re married or in a committed relationship. You have needs and your spouse has needs—sometimes they line up and sometimes they don’t. But when it comes to exercise, you might want to consider putting in the effort to line up your schedules and go to the gym together. Here’s why:

• You have a built-in workout buddy. Your spouse is the one person who (hopefully) knows you better than anyone else. That means he or she knows how to motivate you, knows the difference between an emergency and an excuse, and can get you to your kickboxing class on time.
• You can build up your relationship. If you’re looking for a cheap date, this is it. Studies have shown that people who perform any activity together, whether it be singing, dancing, or running, strengthen the bond between them. At the same time, you’ll be getting physically stronger as well.
• You can have more fun. Say you’re a woman and a regular at an aerobics class. Wouldn’t it be fun to see your husband get into the groove too? Couples that try new exercises together have no end of enjoyable experiences and fun memories.

Like anything in a relationship, working out together takes some effort. Here are some tips on how to maximize your exercise enjoyment as a couple:

• Take turns taking the lead. If you fall into the habit of one person calling all the shots, the other may feel some resentment. Try to do things both of you will enjoy, even when it’s your turn to lead.
• Take skill level into consideration. If you’re a very active runner, and your spouse is not, you may have trouble doing too much running in the outdoors. Treadmills at the gym may be your best option for doing things together. That way you both feel like you are getting a good workout without suffering too much for it.
• Give each other space. Sometimes you just want to go it alone. Respect that desire in yourself and your significant other.
• Be supportive, but not condescending. You may know just how to lift that weight, and notice that your significant other…doesn’t. Help your partner work out, but avoid falling into the trap of being a know-it-all.
• Make sure it’s right for you. We’ve talked it up, but you need to make the call. Some couples are really built for tandem exercise, and some just aren’t. Not working out together doesn’t say anything bad about your relationship. It’s completely a matter of taste.

So there you have it…enjoy a little exercise with your loved one, and you can both stay young with SilverSneakers.