How to Decide Your Mate is the Best Weight Loss Partner

Working out alone can be a real drag. Especially for those who have just begun a fitness regiment. You can start off with the best of intentions, but may soon find you are discouraged and ready to quit altogether. You need some support, but who can you turn to? The obvious answer is partnering up with your significant other. After all, they are the one you are likely spend the bulk of your free time with. But, before you grab your spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend and drag them kicking and screaming into the gym with you, take some time to consider whether or not they will truly be the best fitness partner to team up with. Asking yourself these questions before you bring up working out with your partner may help you decide if they are the best person who will help you achieve your fitness goals.

1 - Do they even like exercising?

This one is pretty obvious. But, just because you have SO much in common with your "better half" doesn't mean that exercising is one of those things. The immediate answer to this question will vary depending on how long you've been in a relationship with that person. If it's been a relatively short relationship thus far, you may have to ask them what they think about fitness, and gauge their response accordingly. However, if you've been partners in crime with a "couch potato" for some time now, and suddenly want to get in shape, don't count on them having the same enthusiasm you do.

2- Will they like the same workout routine you do?

So let's say you've both now agreed to start a workout routine together. Now what? This one can be tricky. After all, there have been many books and articles written on the Mars/Venus dichotomy. Why would finding a fitness plan that will fit both of you be any different? This question also assumes that you have already decided on what you personally like to do when working out, and want to stick with it. For instance, if you are a man, you may like a heavier emphasis on weight training. Or, if you are a woman, you may want to just stretch and tone with a firm dose of yoga. Workout routines can be as unique as the individuals that follow them. Of course, this isn't to say that people can't or shouldn't change their workout, or explore new options. Rather, it's a question to raise with the understanding that some exercises are just off limits for some people. Trial and error in this area is key. Perhaps starting with a specific regiment, or program, can help you both find some common ground. Then you can adjust things for your individual tastes as you learn more about each others personal likes and dislikes.

3- Are both your personalities going to mesh with your fitness goals?

Now you've both taken the plunge. You've decided you both want to start an exercise program, and maybe have a general idea of where and how to begin. Not so fast. Consider this last question. Just because you both have never thought twice when agreeing to which restaurant to eat at, or which movie to see doesn't mean that your fitness goals are going to automatically be in sync. Guys may be looking for someone to shout "one more" as they struggle to lift that final bench press. While ladies may need more subtle encouragement that their rear end is indeed looking a lot more firm. Once again, the more you know your partner in general, the more you're going to know their personality and responses in this area. Just remember, you both want to work together as a team in this endeavor, and not let selfish desires get in the way of you both reaching your fitness goals.