People in a relationship are less likely to exercise than those that are not in a relationship. We all should be exercising regardless. But the truth is, once we become settled, we can easily fall into the trap of getting too comfortable and the kilos slowly creep up each year.
Let's reverse this statistic and use our relationships for the better health of ourselves. It is well known that exercising with a group or another person increases the likelihood of you sticking to an exercise regime. So get your partner involved and create a good bonding experience while both getting healthy at the same time.
Benefits of exercising with your partner
Increased Energy
When you exercise you feel more energetic. You sleep better and are more refreshed during the day. The little things will not wear you down. Being energised and uplifted is a lot more attractive than being lazy on the coach.
Improved Confidence
Exercising creates a sense of accomplishment. We tend to feel better about ourselves when we exercise, we feel more confident as we know we are on track to improving ourselves. These feelings of self-confidence do improve our relationships. If we feel more accomplished and can see ourselves meeting physical challenges, we feel less self-doubt. We become less anxious or jealous and this all creates a stronger relationship where we no longer feel needy.
Reduced Stress Levels
Being stressed can hurt a relationship. People tend to take out their problems on those that are closest to them. Eventually your relationship can pay the price as there is only so much a person can take. When we exercise we tend to be able to better cope with daily stress. Exercise releases the hormones which make us feel better and lift our moods. We tend to be able to move on from stresses a lot easier instead of dwelling on it. If you are your partner are in better moods, you'll less likely argue which can only benefit the both of you.
Improved Intimacy
Spending time together in exercise creates a time to bond. Exercise can re kindle the fire, creating excitement and friendly competition. When you see what you can achieve together, when you see the sweat and determination each of you are capable of, you'll feel a close emotional connection and appreciation for one another. When exercising you are creating a better body and as a result of feeling better about yourself, you'll feel more comfortable and confident on an intimate level. Your partner will love your improved body too.
When deciding to exercise with your partner, take small steps to start with. Set exercise dates with your partner. Be realistic to begin with especially if you are a beginner. One date per week may be all that is realistic to begin with. It's better to be realistic then to set yourself up for failure straight away. Some ideas for you and your partner could be to go for jogs, attend dance classes or boxing classes, try weight training or perhaps even think about getting a personal trainer. Couples sessions are also more affordable then one on one and you'll get the benefit of being able to spend some time together.
You'll find that when you have the support of your partner you'll pave the way for a healthy lifestyle in the long term. You will both be making healthy eating choices, and being fit together means you experience adventures that you perhaps would not have been able to experience otherwise. If you have children, get them involved too. Activities such as skipping, tag, bike rides and ski trips are all things that the children can get involved in. Being able to keep up with your children and be great role models is invaluable to your children's health as to your relationship.
Getting fit can really benefit your relationship. If you are both happier, you'll be more satisfied with yourself and with each other. Happiness is contagious.
Originally published on Feb 13, 2012
