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Photo: Courtesy of Kirk Myers
Working out as a couple is a great idea and has many benefits. First and foremost, a “couple” workout doesn’t necessarily have to be with your significant other; it can be a friend, a mentor, or anyone that you are comfortable with. For starters, couples often don’t get enough ‘alone time’ or are always preoccupied and stressed. Going to the gym is an activity that is ideal to share with a significant other. With fitness, motivation is always important, and what better motivation to have than a loved one.
The benefits of working out will aid the body and mind of both individuals, and communication is bound to improve between the two. The exercise itself has potential to have both a physical and emotional positive impact. Working out also promotes less stress, better sleep and a sharp brain. This is a win-win for everyone. Couples feel better about themselves and each other, while the energy between them flows smoothly. Add endorphins to all this goodness and no couple can refuse this idea. Endorphins spice up the relationship and keep both individuals at a positive level.
Sometimes, the two individuals can be into completely different kinds of workouts. If your guy only likes to lift and you want to do some cardio or yoga, there’s a clear solution. The key is to pick a full body workout that both of parties would enjoy, like boxing or cross-fit. If it is new to both, then it’s all the better. Going on a new journey together adds to the harmony as a couple.
There are several celebrities who like to work out together and it helps both of them. For instance, Reese Witherspoon and Jim Toth often jog together. Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel bike and jog together. Gisele Bundchen and Tom Brady hike together. These are fun activities that can easily fit into busy schedules and help couples bond deeper.
Photo: Courtesy of Kirk Myers
That said, here are some a few partner exercises to try out:
Partner Pushups
You start by facing each other in pushup position. After you do each pushup, you high five each other using the same hand. This makes you hold the position longer and ultimately challenges you. You also support each other by being there for each other. When you high five, you keep each other going— what’s one more pushup?
Partner Situps
You start by having your legs face each other— intertwine your legs so that you can support each other’s body weight. After each sit up, have your hands meet your partner’s hands. You know you have a pair of hands waiting at the end of each sit up, so you’re less likely to keep your partner hanging!
Partner Leg Exercise- Step Ups
This exercise is done by each person standing on opposite sides of an elevated surface, like a bench. You shouldn’t be facing each other directly; rather you should be positioned diagonally. Then step up on the elevated surface with the inner leg that is between the both of you, while holding each other’s hands for support. When you’re done, switch sides and do the other leg.
These couple workouts are bound to make you and the other person more fit; both physically and emotionally. So grab your partner or friend, and try working out together for a change!
-by Kirk Myers, Personal Trainer and Founder of the DogPound