Couple Goals: Getting Fit Together
Authored by Kyle Golden (May 6, 2024)
Staying fit is a common goal for many people on a personal level, but did you know it could also be a fantastic couple goal? Exercising together not only helps you both stay healthy but can also strengthen your relationship bond. It provides an opportunity to spend quality time together, support each other's fitness goals, and even add a bit of friendly competition to keep things exciting.
Mutual Goals
Having mutual fitness goals and working towards them together can be extremely beneficial for a relationship. It encourages communication and cooperation, as both partners need to discuss their goals, plan workouts, and motivate each other. This shared journey towards a common goal can also increase feelings of unity and partnership. Overcoming challenges and celebrating victories together can be fulfilling experiences that enhance the relationship bond. The shared commitment to health and fitness can also lead to the discovery of other shared interests and activities, enriching the relationship further.
Opting for shared exercise goals can provide a healthier alternative to activities like frequent happy hours or excessive sedentary behavior (like scrolling on social media). By choosing to engage in workouts together, couples can replace potentially harmful habits with beneficial and health-promoting ones, all while strengthening their bond and enjoying each other's company.
Boost Intimacy
Exercising with your partner can also boost intimacy. When you engage in physical activity, your body releases endorphins, known as "feel-good" hormones, which can lead to feelings of happiness, relaxation, and yes… intimacy. Working out together can also increase your confidence and your attraction to each other, both physical and emotional.
A Fit Future
Speaking of increased attractions, if a couple is planning on starting a family, getting into healthy habits before having children can have huge benefits. Developing a regular exercise routine and healthy eating habits can make a big difference in your own health and well-being. But beyond that, it sets a positive example for future children. By embodying a healthy lifestyle, parents can instill the same values in their children, setting them up for a lifetime of good health. Maintaining a fitness routine can also help manage the stresses and challenges that come with parenthood. So, getting fit together can be a great way for couples to prepare for a healthy, happy family life.
How to Start
Open communication is vital when it comes to setting and achieving fitness goals as a couple. Discussing your individual and shared goals can clarify what you both want to achieve and how you can support each other. This conversation should be a continuous process, adjusting your goals as necessary and celebrating your achievements together.
It's important to understand each other's fitness levels and interests. One partner might enjoy high-intensity workouts, while the other prefers a gentler approach like yoga or pilates. By understanding each other's preferences, you can design a workout routine that you both enjoy.
Setting clear and achievable goals is crucial. Whether it's to lose weight, tone up, or just stay active, having a shared vision can motivate you both and keep you on track. Remember, the aim is to enhance your health and your relationship, not to create a stressful environment.
Regular check-ins can be beneficial. Discussing your progress, challenges, and victories can not only keep you both motivated but also strengthen your communication skills and your bond. Remember, the journey towards fitness is just as important as the destination.
Five exercise activities you can try together
Jogging or Running: This is a simple and accessible activity that can be done almost anywhere. It's a great way to spend time together while also getting a good cardiovascular workout.
Yoga: Yoga can be a calming and enriching experience to share with your partner. It can help improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote mindfulness.
Dance Classes: Dancing is a fun and exciting way to get moving. Whether it's salsa, tango, or hip-hop, dance classes can be a great way to learn something new together and get a full-body workout.
Hiking: If you both love the outdoors, hiking can be an excellent way to combine physical activity with appreciation of nature. It's also a great opportunity to strengthen your teamwork as you navigate the trails together.
Cycling: Cycling together, either in a gym class or outdoors, can be a thrilling experience. It's a fantastic way to improve cardiovascular health and can be a fun way to explore your surroundings.
Just starting out?
Go for a walk. Don't underestimate the power of a simple daily walk. Walking is an accessible and low-impact way to stay active. It is a perfect exercise for couples to start with, especially those who are new to fitness or have different fitness levels. Walking together provides an opportunity to connect, converse, and enjoy each other's company without the distraction of technology or the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's a chance to appreciate your surroundings, discuss your day and your thoughts, and strengthen your bond. Regular walks can also help boost cardiovascular health, improve mood, and even aid in digestion and weight management.
Keep in Mind
Key factors to consider when starting a shared fitness journey as a couple include:
Avoid creating an atmosphere of unhealthy competition or judgment. Remember, each individual has their own pace and fitness level.
Set realistic expectations. It's important to understand that progress might be slow at times, and that's okay.
Be patient and supportive of each other. Celebrate each other's achievements no matter how small they seem.
Respect each other's boundaries and comfort levels. Make sure that both partners feel comfortable with the exercises and routines you choose to do together.
Seek Some Guidance
Considering a couples fitness coach can be an effective option in meeting your shared fitness goals. A coach can craft a workout program that respects both partners' fitness level and preferences, ensuring each individual is engaged and challenged. They can introduce enjoyable, diverse exercises that keep the fitness journey dynamic and motivating. A coach can also serve as an impartial mediator in case of any disagreements during the journey, ensuring that both individual and shared goals are prioritized.
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(Consider this article as general information on health, fitness, and lifestyle. Always consult your physician or health care provider before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.)
Hi, I’m Kyle Golden,
Founder and Coach at Vireo Fitness. For over 16 years I have helped hundreds of clients and couples just like you find their path to better health. Get in touch today and find out how I can help you embrace a better lifestyle and realize your full potential!