Why You Should Be Exercising as a Couple
Every single day millions of people across America head to their local gym, yoga studio, are hitting the pavement, or are committing to new fitness challenges, but maybe they should not be going alone. Taking care of your mind and body through exercise does not just benefit you, it could benefit your romantic relationship too.
Here are five reasons to start working out with your romantic partner.
Built-in quality time
Between life, jobs, kids, school, alone time with a significant other can be limited. Date nights are nice, but they can be hard to stick to when life gets in the way. However, if exercising is a priority, you likely have every sweat session already penciled into your calendar. So, if you are forging out time in your day to work out, why not do it together? More quality time helps keep your relationship healthy.
Have a happier relationship
A 2000 study found that after jointly participating in an exciting physical challenge or activity, couples reported feeling more satisfied with their relationships and more in love with their partner. It is not the challenge of the activity, but the physiological arousal that drives romantic attraction. This study suggests that sharing a fitness goal, like completing a tough mudder, running together, or crushing a Team Training class together can boost the quality of your relationship.
Improve the quality of your workouts
In 1965 it was proven that just the presence of someone else affects your ability to do an activity. Having your partner present for your typical workout routine will boost your energy output, often without you even realizing it. However, if you are just learning how to do a new exercise having a partner present may interfere with your ability to complete a task.
Look more attractive in their eyes
Exercise causes the same symptoms as physiological arousal – sweaty hands, shortness of breath, and a racing pulse. The symptoms mirror romantic attraction and according to a 1974 study, many people can mistake the two and think they are feeling romantic attraction when they are really feeling physical arousal. Use this to your advantage and invite your romantic interest to a workout, you will likely become more attractive in their eyes.
Increase your emotional bond
Working out is a context in which you can coordinate your actions, whether it be lifting weights in sync, matching each other’s running pace, or tossing a medicine ball back and forth. This behavior creates nonverbal mimicry, which is beneficial for both of you. Nonverbal mimicry promotes the feeling of being emotionally attuned with one another. Those who have experienced or engaged in this typically report greater feelings of having bonded with their partner.
In sum, if you are already working out alone, try inviting a romantic interest or partner and watch your relationship grow and deepen.