Working out as a couple is about balance. The trick is to find something that you both enjoy so that this becomes a positive and shared experience.
Danielle Tinnirello
Love is in the air, but does that apply in the gym?
The saying goes, “Couples who train together stay together.” Training together can not only benefit you but your partner as well. Providing encouragement and support, witnessing the other’s successes, building trust during those vulnerable moments, suffering together and then laughing about it afterward are just a handful of ways that working out together can be a great way to strengthen a relationship. It also improves the efficiency of your workouts by having the mere presence of someone else supporting you as you achieve your goals.
Working out as a couple is about balance. The trick is to find something that you both enjoy so that this becomes a positive and shared experience. Working out with your spouse or partner can be a great way to become closer and get in a little friendly competition. Keep each other motivated and have fun. Here’s how:
Try something totally new
Don’t be afraid to teach your significant other something new. Teaching each other new things keeps both partners open-minded and willing to learn from each other.
Have a common goal.
Set a goal together, something that’s specific, attainable and relevant to your situation. For example, Erik signed up to run a Spartan Sprint, which gave us something in common to train for, and on race day we conquered it together.
Recognize that your goals may be different.
It’s very important to remember that you and your significant other are at completely different fitness levels, and there will be certain workouts that will be extremely hard for one person and may be easier for the other. Always respect each other’s limits and abilities. We train at different levels, but we learn how to push each other past our own limitations. We are each other’s motivation and support.
Keep it interesting.
Instead of staying strictly in the gym to train, we like to take it to the track or head out on the trail for a hike. You can get creative—use stumps for box jumps, or branches for pull-ups. If all else fails you can always do burpees!
Don’t be afraid to add some friendly competition!
We always throw in some friendly competition. Whether it’s seeing who the faster swimmer is or who can complete a workout quicker than the other – it can be anything. The goal is to push one another; but don’t forget, this competition is all about having fun. Don’t let it get too serious!
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About the Author
Danielle Tinnirello
Danielle Tinnirello is an ISSA-certified Personal Trainer and AFAA-certified Group Instructor. She specializes in fat loss, functional fitness, strength, conditioning, weight training, and H.I.I.T training.