Supporting Intentional Exercise

Written by Branda Polk

The craziness of life throws many challenges toward couples and, usually, our physical fitness gets pushed to the side. But, when couples intentionally choose to include exercise in their regular lifestyle, they are healthier and stick with the exercise habits longer. A study from Indiana University in Bloomington, IN, and published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness showed that regular exercise was significantly higher among married couples who exercised together than married individuals exercising alone. And, married individuals were six times more likely to drop out of their exercise program than married couples. Fifty percent of lone exercisers that dropped out of their exercise plan gave family responsibility and lack of spousal support as the main reason for leaving. 

Couples need each other to stay healthy. When husbands and wives choose to stay active throughout their life together they reap all the benefits of exercise such as strength, endurance, decreased risk of lifestyle diseases (heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers), increased stamina, stress management, and improved intimacy. 

A commitment to better health and exercise is a gift that can be given for life. Consider these tips to get started or spice up your exercise relationship.

Choose an activity you can both do. 
Walking and/or running are easy couple options that don’t require extra equipment or memberships. But, think outside the box and try other fun fitness options. Play on a co-ed softball team. Go for hikes or bike rides outdoors. Take ballroom dancing classes. Hire a personal trainer and workout in the gym together. I enjoy training three couples each week and find they are more likely to stick with their plan and achieve great results. A creative, qualified trainer can build an exercise plan that will benefit both husband and wife to workout effectively together.

Choose a challenge. 
Just because you can’t do some physical task today doesn’t mean you can’t work toward it. Some challenge ideas couples can take on include rock climbing, working toward a martial arts black belt, training for a 5K, 10K, ½ or full marathon, water or snow skiing, canoeing or kayaking, and rollerblading. Use your imagination and discuss an activity you have both always wanted to try and go for it together.

Choose to set goals.
After determining your activity or challenge, establish a plan to reach your goals. Set days per week, time, or distance goals for workout sessions. Lovingly hold each partner accountable without nagging or threatening. Stay focused on the exercise with measurable, achievable steps. Avoid setting weight loss goals as these are not as uncontrollable as activity goals. Even if you can’t actually be “together” during the activity, support the other spouse with time and encouragement. 
 

Branda Polk, B.S. Exercise Science, is a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, conference speaker and health writer in Lebanon, Tennessee. Sign up for Branda's newsletter, Wellness Connection, to receive encouragement and coaching in the areas of nutrition, exercise, and stress relief. Follow Branda on Twitter.

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