Fitter together

Pair up with your partner to get stronger and better as a duo.

- RACHEL DEBLING

Look no further than the other side of your bed for your latest source of exercise motivation. We’ve got five tips for the best ways to create a mutual love of fitness in your home— no matter where you or your S.O. are starting from.

Sign up for a fun run

Having a mutual goal, like a 5K or obstacle-course run, is a great way to stay on track (pardon the pun), even if you and your partner are of different fitness levels. “Keep up with the communication to ensure you are both on the same page through the planning process,” advises Jeff McGuffin, who as past chair of the Niagara Wing Fest helps oversee the planning team for the event’s Wing Fest 5km Fun Run. For example, if one of you needs to take a break or slow to a walk during your runs leading up to the race, do it together. “Whether you finish running or walking, the main goal is to finish it together,” he says. “Goal number two is to have fun while doing it!”

Find a trainer who speaks both your languages

Hiring a coach to push you and your significant other through workouts can be a great way to keep you both motivated while saving money—for example, Poul Nielsen, president and owner of Nielsen Fitness Premium In-Home Training, notes his company offers a 50 percent add-on for every client above the 1:1 ratio ($100 per session for one, $150 per session for two, etc.). That said, it can sometimes be difficult to find someone who meshes with both of your training styles.