Fit & Loving It: Couples that exercise together …

Q: My husband and I recently decided to begin to exercise together. We have different strengths and personal goals and don’t want to hold the other back, but we really want to do this as a team. Is it possible for both of us to work out together and still reach our individual fitness goals?

A: Having a workout partner to help keep you accountable, motivated and committed to your workout routine can make reaching your fitness goals easier and possibly more fun.

Although you may have different fitness goals from your husband’s, a few modifications can be made to your individual workouts to produce a successful partnership.

When planning your workouts, decide what goals you and your husband have in common. For example, if you both want to complete 40 minutes of cardiovascular exercise each workout, you both can complete the activity, although you might not work at the same intensity.

Also, if you and your husband enjoy exercising outside, but cannot run, ride or walk at the same pace, consider having one of you ride a bike while the other runs or uses inline skates. You both will be completing the cardiovascular exercise at the same time and at an intensity you personally can handle.

Almost every exercise can be modified for anyone from beginners to advanced. You and your husband can use the same resistance machines, but the weight your husband uses does not have to be the weight you use. Also, the progression of the exercise does not have to be the same.

For example, if you both wanted to do push-ups, there are many progressions to completing this exercise. Whether done with your knees on the ground, against a wall or in a standard push-up position, the benefits of the exercise still can be achieved.

Another option could be to complete part of your workout together, then separate to complete other exercises before meeting up again. For example, you can do your cardiovascular workout together, then your strength training separately and later meet up to complete your flexibility and cool-down routine together.

Having a workout partner can be a great tool for fitness success. Be creative.

Always consult a physician before beginning an exercise program.