Running Together, Not Apart: Couples exercise means physical ...

Aline Potvin

It?s not just the candy companies that seek to target couples this Valentine?s day. One of the hottest new topics in medicine and primary care is the impact social interactions can have on our overall health and health behaviors. It can?t be denied that our most intimate romantic relationships can greatly impact our overall activity, self-esteem, and motivation. What they are learning now is that we affect our significant others in a measurable way and can influence overall success in physical health and weight loss. So how exactly does exercising with your partner make the process that much easier?

• You actually stick to your exercise regimen: A 2007 study proposed that couple and family oriented approaches to physical health and weight loss in primary care had the potential to be much more successful in reaching objectives. Anyone that has a gym buddy knows sticking to a routine is much easier when you have someone keeping you accountable.

• Your intimate life can be improved: It?s no secret that physical activity has many health benefits, and that couple intimacy can be greatly improved when both partners are feeling healthy and vital. When individuals are stressed out or are experiencing low self-esteem, typically sex drive is the first thing to fall off the wagon.

• You?ll increase your odds of losing/maintaining your weight: Marriage or cohabiting with a partner has the potential to increase one?s waistline, several studies have observed. In fact, as of 2006 approximately 70 percent of married men and 54 percent of married women were overweight. Luckily, exercising together and implementing healthy dietary habits can just as easily allow us to lose weight.

• You?ll get all the other benefits of exercise: Stronger than any pill or supplement, exercise is, in most cases, the real ticket to increasing overall energy, regulating sleep, enhancing cognitive ability, and managing stress. It?s measurable too. A 2007 study showed significant decrease in female heart rate and cortisol (stress hormone) levels when couples were physically active and in contact with each other.

But let?s take a trip back to reality. Everyone knows people have busy lives, kids to take care of, and schedules to align. What are some quick tips for couples trying to integrate more exercise into their mutual activity list?

• Start small: Sometimes it?s impossible to integrate earth-shattering schedule changes to a bustling family. If you and your partner can only afford a 20 minute walk when you?re talking about the latest fuel bill, it?s better than nothing. Over time, you?ll still notice a difference in your overall wellbeing. Start with small goals, like walking/running a local 5K together that benefits your kids school or a favorite charity.

• Find a mutual activity: Sometimes its difficult to find activities you both will enjoy, and you may have to try multiple things. It?s important to remember, however, that you will be more successful if you can support each other in your efforts.

• Don?t compete: When couples work out together, sometimes it?s tempting to start having a ?weight loss race.? However, it?s important to remember that love and support will provide much more long-term benefit than bragging to your spouse about your superior athletic abilities. The effort should be mutual and have a foundation of respect.

• Value your rest time: If you?re both working so hard, remember your weight and physical health is greatly influenced by how well you are both sleeping. Research has shown a strong correlation between sleep duration, quality, and weight gain. Make sure your nest provides all the right conditions for restorative rest. Create a room with total darkness, minimal background noises, and have at least a half hour of wind-down time free of tv and internet surfing before you try to hit the hay.

So as many celebrate Valentine?s Day this week, consider what impact you and your partner can have on each others? health. What better way to honor a relationship than to ensure you both are happy, healthy, and supported.

Any other thoughts or questions on couples health? Leave a comment below or email Dr. Potvin at arp.naturod@gmail.com. Cheers!

Source: http://www.dailybulldog.com/db/health/running-together-not-apart-couples-exercise-means-physical-fitness-success/

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