
Marriage can be a beautiful partnership, but it shouldn’t be a free pass to let your health slip. That’s why in Fit for Life: How Marriage and Fitness Go Hand in Hand, I’m sharing how fitness and a healthy lifestyle are crucial for both personal well-being and a thriving marriage.
Marriage and Health: The Stronger You, the Stronger Your Relationship
Let’s be real: your health and marriage go hand in hand. I’ve noticed that many couples, once they’re married, think they no longer have to make an effort to look after themselves. But marriage is not a free pass to let go of self-care! In fact, I believe that neglecting your health is neglecting your marriage. Think about it—if you’re not healthy, you’re not your best self for your spouse. The love and respect that brought you together should continue to flourish through mutual care for both your bodies and your relationship.
When Don and I married, I appreciated his commitment to staying healthy, and that hasn’t changed. I don’t believe that just because we’re married, we should stop caring for ourselves and each other. Keeping active, eating well, and nurturing our physical health enhances our emotional connection and keeps the attraction alive. Letting go of fitness sends the wrong message to both yourself and your partner. Instead of falling into unhealthy habits, commit to growing stronger—together.
The Power of Physical Activity: Couples Who Play Together Stay Together
Let’s face it: physical activity isn’t just good for your body—it’s also great for your relationship. Whether it’s taking a walk, a bike ride, playing tennis, or even a fun game of catch, exercising together helps you bond in a way that’s deeper than just spending time in front of the TV. I believe that couples who engage in regular physical activity together are more likely to stay connected and maintain a healthy, strong marriage.
And let’s not forget the importance of intimacy. Healthy, active marriages embrace all aspects of connection—including sexual health. Active couples report better intimacy and more fulfilling relationships. Studies show that a passionate, active session can burn up to 200 calories, making it an enjoyable and beneficial part of staying fit and connected.
Fitness for Self-Love and Marriage
Being fit isn’t just about impressing your spouse—it’s about respecting yourself. You should want to take care of your body because you value your health and want to be around for your loved ones for as long as possible. Letting yourself go can lead to serious health issues, including obesity, heart disease, and a host of other problems. I want to be with my husband for as long as we can enjoy life together, and staying fit is one of the best ways to ensure that.
Staying healthy also keeps your confidence high. Feeling good about yourself allows you to feel more attractive, more engaged, and more satisfied in your relationship. And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love hearing, “Babe, you look great today!”? I don’t work on my fitness solely for my husband, but let’s face it—feeling good about myself benefits both of us. A healthy body leads to a healthy mind and a healthy marriage.
Marriage Is a Choice, Just Like Fitness
Let me say it plainly: marriage and health are both choices. Every day, you choose how to treat your body and your relationship. If you choose to neglect your health, it will affect your marriage—and vice versa. But when you invest in both, you build a foundation that fosters longevity, happiness, and well-being for years to come.
Remember, just because you’re married doesn’t mean you should stop working on your fitness or your relationship. Treat both with love, respect, and dedication, and you’ll be rewarded with a stronger marriage and a healthier, happier you.
As a personal trainer and coach with over 30 years of experience, I’m passionate about helping people age gracefully through proper fitness and nutrition. Be sure to follow me on Instagram for tips and inspiration to keep your body and relationship thriving.
Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more fitness and marriage inspiration!