Six Ways to Get Your Love Life in Shape with Exercise

What does exercise with your partner have to do to improve your love life? It turns out that there is a lot…

John Gottman, Ph.D., offers seven principles couples can follow to make their relationship happy. These principles will help you stick with your exercise program (94% of couples do so together) and allow you to enjoy your relationship.

Make your love map more complete. Couples with a great relationship are intimately acquainted with their partner’s world. Gottman describes “lovemap” as a collection of all the information about your partner and a desire to continue to learn more about them. A gym visit can provide quality time and help you to take an interest in each other’s health and goals.

Nurture affection and admiration.

Remind yourself of the positive qualities of your partner and show your admiration. Couples exercise together naturally by high-fiving each other, encouraging and motivating each other, celebrating their successes, and exchanging high-fiving. It is a sign of affection and admiration to touch while stretching or give the other a towel after a hard workout.

Look at each other.

When your partner has offered you affection, it signifies a romantic connection. It creates passion, harmony, and a great sex life. This is an excellent way of strengthening your relationship.

Let your partner influence you.

It’s about sharing power, decision-making, and letting your partner influence you. Refrain from judging your partner on the intensity or type of workout they do. Only give criticisms if you are asked. Discuss your weaknesses, set mutual goals, and then ask your partner for their advice.

Solve your solvable problems.

Couples who are open to criticism and don’t get defensive can deescalate tension and soothe each other, and knowing how to compromise will keep their love strong. Exercise has both physical and emotional benefits. This helps couples to be more in harmony. Exercise can help improve mental clarity and happiness. Serving as the spotter for each other can help you build trust. Communication and trust-building can be made more accessible by knowing your partner is available to help.

Shared meaning.

Couples who create shared meaning through rituals, culture, and purpose are less likely to have conflicts. What is your mutual value in fitness, exercise, and health?