Wondering how working out as a couple might work in the real world, especially when you’re both at different fitness levels? 

Sign up for a class together.

While a class like salsa dancing is perfect for couples, other classes will work just as well. Consider trying something new that interests you both: martial arts, an indoor climbing clinic, yoga, adult swim lessons, attend the gym together or other sports of your choosing.

Take part in cardio activities.

Do cardio that allows you both to work at your own intensity level. Group classes like Spinning allow each participant to cater the workout to their fitness level, meaning that you both get the workout you want easy, challenging, or somewhere in the middle.

Gym together.

Do cardio side-by-side. At the gym, simply pick two cardio machines next to each other and work towards your individual goals. You’ll be together but can each work at your own speed, intensity, incline and resistance level.

Bonding outdoors.

When walking or jogging outside, try intervals. If you are a slow jogger and your significant other is faster, intervals will be perfect for both of you. Work at one partner’s faster pace for a few minutes, and then recover at the other person’s slower pace. Intervals are also a great way to improve your fitness level and speed over time.

Strength Training.

When strength training at the gym, “work in” with one another between sets. About 60 seconds of rest between sets is beneficial anyway. So while you rest, your partner can complete one set of the exercise. Switching the weights to your own level is quick and easy to do on most machines.

The great outdoors.

Create a more active lifestyle together by picking up new hobbies. Consider hiking, canoeing, tossing a football, recreational cycling, rafting, camping, and just enjoying a nice, leisurely walk at the end of the day, all of these beat an evening in front of the TV.

A couple that sweats together, stays together.

Ideally you would be more tempted to eat an entire box of chocolates, splurge on a romantic dinner or skip the gym in favor of a bit of Netflix and popcorn, but you don’t have to let your love life derail your plans to get fit. With these workout ideas for couples, you and your partner can spend quality time together while you stay on track to reaching your goals preparing for the summer and beyond.

The Benefits of Exercising with Your Partner
The two of you may be at different fitness levels and have different goals, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t exercise together.

Safety: With someone else watching your form and being there to spot you when you need it, you’ll exercise more safely than if you were alone.

Quality time: Couples spend most of their time apart due to careers and other responsibilities. Instead of hitting the gym alone, plan a workout time that fits both of your schedules. You’ll reach your fitness goals, without sacrificing that one-on-one time that every partnership needs.

A common interest: Add exercise to your list of shared interests and hobbies. The possibility for new, unique activities is endless and keeps things exciting.

Motivation and support: Getting encouragement and praise from your partner is one of the best motivators. It’ll help both of you remain consistent and take care of one another.

A deeper bond: Exercise produces chemicals in the brain that evoke feelings of happiness, reduce stress, and also increase arousal and libido.

Balance: In many couples, one partner tends to favor cardio (typically women) while the other tends to favor strength training (typically men). By working out together you can balance your workout program to include more of both. Let your partner teach you about the areas of fitness you’re unsure of and be open to new fitness experiences.