Why are couples that workout together more likely to stay together?
Like so many things in life, exercise is just more fun when you do it together, plus studies show that working out as a couple increases your happiness in your relationship. (Don’t get us wrong, there is something magical about taking a run by yourself or having a workout in which you can just put on some music and just completely zen out). Research shows that there are a lot of benefits both to your relationship and your own fitness journey when you don’t always go it alone. So why do couples that workout together not only report increased happiness, but tend to have longer-lasting relationships?
First, couples that participate in new and exciting experiences together tend to be happier in general. In the beginning of a relationship, everything you do together seems exciting, but naturally over time that feeling wanes. Working out together can renew this sense of excitement. Plus, couples who tackle challenges together become more bonded to one another, especially if the challenge is exhilarating. Overcoming those challenges together (and trust us, a lot of workouts are challenging AND exhilarating) increases your trust in one another and can create a sense of admiration as you watch your partner succeed!
Shared exercise experience can also create a stronger physical attraction to each other, and it’s not for the reason you might be thinking- the attraction doesn’t necessarily come from muscle gain or weight loss, it’s about the adrenaline! Studies show a positive correlation with adrenaline and attraction. Although it’s not 100% clear why that is, researchers think that it is likely because exercise induces physiological symptoms similar to that of romantic arousal such as sweaty palms, a racing heart beat, and increased dopamine. Experiencing what can mimic how you feel when you’re extremely attracted to someone WITH someone that you are already attracted to- so this is likely what increases your physical attraction to each other! Not only that, but exercise increases self-confidence, and self-confidence is pretty dang attractive!
Another reason why sharing your fitness journey can improve your relationship is it creates a shared goal, and therefore generally helps create a shared lifestyle, which are two major factors contributing to a long-lasting relationship. For example, if you are passionate about fitness and LOVE to go on long hikes, play sports, and just generally be pretty active, you would want your partner to share that with you. Not that you have to share your entire life (because you don’t, and alone time is important too), but if your partner was unwilling to do anything with you that you were passionate about, it would eventually wear on your relationship. However, if you enjoy doing those things together, your relationship strengthens overtime.
In addition to strengthening your relationship, working out together benefits your own fitness journey. It’s well known that having a workout buddy helps hold you accountable, makes you push yourself a little harder, and boosts your morale.This isn’t exclusive to a romantic partner, but when you don’t have a personal trainer or group classes to attend, it certainly helps to have your partner on board! A supportive partner, even one that does not physically workout with you, has been shown to increase your success as you navigate your fitness journey!
If your partner isn’t into going to the gym with you, that doesn’t mean that your relationship is doomed or that you aren’t in a relationship that is healthy, happy, mutually beneficial. You may be passionate about other things that you can share together, and you can still participate in physical activities that provide challenges that mimic the challenges of working out at the gym! As long as you are provided space within your relationship to share your experiences, goals, and personal challenges in a supportive and loving manner, you are more likely to stick with it, even when it seems too difficult.
If you are single, don’t worry- just because you don’t have a significant other doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from having a workout buddy! Going with a friend can strengthen your friendship, plus you’ll both benefit from being held accountable and the support you can give each other to continue improving! If you don’t have a friend to workout with, taking group classes is a great way to be a part of a fitness community, and it’s often a place where friendships between fitness-minded people are born! We’ve seen friendships form and flourish within the walls of Fit St. Charles, just like we’ve seen couples benefit from sharing their fitness journeys! Stop in, or call or email us, and find out how our community of members and trainers can help you and your partner (or your buddy) reach your full potential!