7 Couple Workouts to Strengthen Your Body and Bond

Studies have shown that people work out longer and harder when they have company, according to a 2011 study published in the Journal of Sport and Exercises Psychology. Also, the University of Oxford found that the endorphin release during group workouts or a couple workout in this case can be quite significant in satisfaction when comparing to solo training. Here are some workout you can try with a significant other or a your BFF!

1. Running

Cardio is always fun with some company, so why wait and just head out on a run together! It is helpful to set a time limit or place/destination and just go. A local park or running/bike path can both be great options for nice scenery. It’s always nice if you can find a scenic route, one that ends with a delicious breakfast protein shake is even better. If the great outdoors isn't possible, you can head to the gym and hop on to two treadmills side-by-side. Try to keep the pace easy to maintain a conversation comfortably. 

2. Hiking

If running isn't your thing, hiking is a great way for couples to spend time together at a more manageable pace. You'll also have more time to take in all the beauty around you and enjoy each other's company. The best part is that hiking is great for couples who may be in different fitness levels. If it's happens to be a recovery day for either of you you can pick a trail with a little to no incline. Or choose a path with more hills for an intense workout. 

3. Weightlifting

You don’t always have to go your separate once you get to the gym. It can be quite motivating to lift weights together and you’ll always have a spotter. You can also work on improving your form while having your partner watching your sets and also ensuring that you aren’t lifting past a good form.  At last, it’s always nice to hear encouraging words when you’re feeling tired.

4. AcroYoga

Partner yoga, also known as AcroYoga is known to help strengthen both your yoga practice and your relationship. Since poses that are meant to be practiced and performed together, you can open up and work together to make a beautiful pose. Some poses for beginners like downward-facing dog can allow you to stretch more deeper with your partner than on your own. Another key factor is that AcroYoga will involve trusting, communicating working together.  

5. Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is all about supporting each other in a literal and figurative sense. Whether you're scaling a rugged outcropping or an indoor rock wall, your partner belaying you holds your life in his or her hands. As you climb, your loved one will act as another pair of eyes on the ground. They will help you find that next handhold and encourage you on your way up. This activity is also good for helping to improve communication skills. 

6. Circuit Workouts

Another great couples workout is using your own body weight. Try a round of couple's calisthenics. Set a timer for 10 minutes, then rotate between sets of squats, push-ups and planks until it goes off. When you set a timer you can each go at your own pace instead of trying to match each rep together. That way, you're still working out together but you're trying to beat your time, not each other.

7. Salsa Dancing

A traditional workout isn't the only way to get your heart rate up. Try salsa dance lessons or any other dance class your gym or local rec center might offer. The nice thing about Salsa is that it combines a physical activity with a romantic and saucy vibe. It will stimulate your dopamine, the brain’s pleasure-seeking neurotransmitter all while learning a new skill and having fun! 

Important! Relax and Recover Together 

Resting is a key factor to any fitness training and what’s best that doing it together. You can recover and set aside time to take it easy. Schedule a massage, do some stretching or soak together in a salt bath, make some treats or enjoy a nice chocolate peanut butter superfood protein shake. It'll give the two of you some much-needed time to yourselves without outside distractions (turn those cellphones off) and the opportunity to relive your active adventures together.