In their 30s, Adiba and Mehedi, balancing careers and kids, realised that their health was taking a back seat. Over coffee, they committed to a fitness journey, aiming beyond weight loss, focusing on ‘us time’ amid busy lives and setting an example for their family.
My wife Nayma and I, as a couple and health coaches, draw insights from helping couples like Adiba and Mehedi, and I am thrilled to share our experiences with you in this month’s column.
BENEFITS OF WORKING OUT TOGETHER
There is a higher likelihood of couples maintaining workout routines when they exercise together. A significant other can be an effective workout companion, promoting schedule adherence and reducing the likelihood of skipping workouts. The presence of a partner minimises obstacles to leaving home, a major hurdle in the fitness journey.
Beyond that, a key aspect of pursuing good health together involves the emotional support from our partner, who often serves as our best cheerleader. In my case, my wife has been my main supporter in my fitness journey over the past two years of marriage. We’ve become each other’s go-to for discussing fitness goals, recognising that, as coaches, we’re not perfect. Working together on our well-being has become a privilege, and this personal understanding is how we assist our clients as a couple. Aligning your encouragement and goals as a team increases the likelihood of achieving them, compared to going solo.
TAKE UP A SPORT THAT YOU BOTH ENJOY, SUCH RACKET SPORTS, SWIMMING, CYCLING OR EVEN KICKBOXING. NOT ONLY WILL YOU BE GETTING A WORKOUT, BUT YOU’LL ALSO BE HAVING FUN AND BONDING OVER A SHARED INTEREST.
A COUPLE’S GUIDE TO FITNESS
Share love and affection with your significant other with these fun activities that will help you get fitter together.
Couple Yoga: Yoga is a great way to relax and connect with your partner. Try doing some yoga poses together, such as the Partner Tree Pose. Stand side by side or hip to hip with your partner so your sides are completely touching. Raise the arms that touch into a straight line and touch palms. Try to hold steady and raise your outer leg into tree pose. Not only will this strengthen your physical connection, but it will also help with balance and relaxation.
Dance Class: Dancing is a fun and romantic way to bond with your partner. Sign up for a dance class together, whether it’s Zumba, Salsa, or any form of Ballroom dancing. Not only will you learn new moves, but you’ll also get a great workout while having fun.
Double the Burn: Plan an exercise routine together, such as a weightlifting or c ardio session. You can encourage each other and push each other to reach your fitness goals. Make it fun with friendly competition, performing exercises to challenge each other.
Walk or Run: Go for a walk or run together. Not only will you be getting some fresh air and exercise, but you’ll also be able to enjoy each other’s company in a beautiful natural setting.
Couple Sports: Take up a sport that you both enjoy, such racket sports, swimming, cycling or even kickboxing. Not only will you be getting a workout, but you’ll also be having fun and bonding over a shared interest.
CELEBRATING PROGRESS
Starting a fitness journey together doesn’t necessitate identical goals or routines. It’s crucial to embrace your differences and actively support each other’s unique fitness aspirations. For instance, one partner may focus on strength training while the other leans towards yoga or cardio. The key is fostering mutual support, whether it’s taking turns caring for the kids during workouts or aiding each other in maintaining healthy meal preparations. Remember, as life partners, you extend your roles to become each other’s fitness cheerleaders. Celebrate every bit of progress, no matter how small, and incorporate joint activities you both enjoy. This shared journey not only enhances physical health but also fortifies your partnership.
A SIGNIFICANT OTHER CAN BE AN EFFECTIVE WORKOUT COMPANION, PROMOTING SCHEDULE ADHERENCE AND REDUCING THE LIKELIHOOD OF SKIPPING WORKOUTS. THE PRESENCE OF A PARTNER MINIMISES OBSTACLES TO LEAVING HOME, A MAJOR HURDLE IN THE FITNESS JOURNEY.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
Overcoming challenges starts with creating a judgement-free zone. Body shaming has no place in a supportive relationship; focus on encouragement and positive reinforcement. Effective time management is crucial. Treat workouts like fixed appointments. Choose home workouts on hectic days.
In a busy world where personal time is rare and duties seem endless, staying fit as a couple is not just about physical health; it is about nurturing support, love, and shared goals. Adiba and Mehedi’s story illustrates how fitness can strengthen bonds, uniting couples and providing a positive example for others.