Why your significant other should probably join you on your next gym visit

As the UK’s lockdown continues to loosen, gyms have been given the green light to reopen. You could see this as very positive news if you are a fitness buff; however, should you go alone?

You could be surprised to learn that, in a recent survey of over 7,600 UK adults, 43% of respondents reported having exercised with their romantic partner, reports Metro. Of that proportion, 66% said that the experience had improved their relationship. So, why should you follow their example? 

You can spend more time with your partner

If you have the kind of relationship where your partner groans and rolls their eyes every time you tell them you are off to the gym, chances are that they just don’t realise what they are missing. Perhaps you could convert them by inviting them along with you?

In the above-mentioned survey, 53% of respondents who said they had exercised with their partner also said they had enjoyed the experience. Gym time can make valuable bonding time.

You could feel more attracted to your partner

No, not necessarily just when you catch sight of their new six-pack. In the survey, 21% of exercising couples said that working out together had led them to perceive their partner as more attractive. It turns out that there’s a surprisingly scientific reason for that…

In one study cited by Psychology Today, it was found that symptoms of physiological arousal – like a racing pulse and sweaty hands – can so closely resemble symptoms of romantic attraction that the two are easy to confuse with each other.

You get some accountability for your fitness regime

When your alarm goes off at an early hour, it can be tempting to just hit the snooze button and forgo your exercise for that day. However, that temptation might not be so strong if your partner has awoken at the same time and is eager to get going with you in tow.

Yes, you might be initially reluctant about joining them – but that reticence could soon fade as they drag you out of your bed.

Exercise can, quite simply, make you both happier

Of course, even if you exercise alone, you still get a nice psychological boost, thanks to those endorphins acknowledged by Heathline. However, if you and your partner exercise together, it naturally follows that you can feel happier together, too.

This, in turn, means that the two of you are less likely to erupt into arguments as you both get underway with your other responsibilities later that day.

You can strengthen your emotional bond

This is another consequence which has been attested by academic research. When you work out with someone else, the two of you can end up coordinating your actions, such as by lifting weights in rhythm with each other and matching each other’s walking or running pace.

Such “nonverbal matching”, as it is technically known, could even start when the two of you shop the His & Hers collection of gym clothing at an online store. Here’s to happier workouts.

The editorial unit