Do It Together
“We’ve discovered,” explains Cynthia, “that the more variety there is in your program, the better off you are. That’s why it’s so important for men and women to share their different approaches and benefit from each other’s style. Strange as it might sound, a lot of the fun of exercising together is spot-checking each other. Once your turn is over, you get to watch him suffer through it! It gives the routine a kind of twist.”
There are many different routines to try together, including weight machines of all types and cardiovascular activities such as aerobics, stairmasters, treadmills, jogging, even boxing.
Strength ... Plus Flexibility & Rhythm
“Men may typically know more about the control and techniques of weight training,” says Eric, “but women know about form, flexibility, and rhythm. As partners, you can encourage a better, more extensive routine. Also, whenever you modify your workout it helps protect you against injury. You never want your body to become too conditioned to any one thing.”
Cynthia and Eric remind us that the morning is the best time of the day to build an exercise routine. “There just aren’t as many distractions as in the evening. People who work out in the mornings stick with their routines longer.”
Contrary to popular notions, “you should not wake up and begin stretching right away!” Nor should you start by first pumping iron or doing aerobics. You should begin by doing big open movements, to bring your body temperature up. You don’t want to stretch if you’re cold, because your muscles are more prone to being pulled.
“Then, begin with an easy routine to get the circulation going. Do some bends and some larger, ballet-style movements. From there, move into light aerobics. “Mirroring each other can help with form and will keep you from pushing yourself too hard.”
Morning exercises can include stretches followed by sit-ups and leg lifts. You can work your upper bodies with pushups, weights, thera-resistance bands and bench presses. Cynthia wants everyone to remember that routines shouldn’t be ‘routine.’ “Sometimes people just need to turn on the radio and dance around the room, or pick up a jump rope, a pair of rollerblades or a bike — and go outside!
“That’s why working out with a partner is so great. It’s fun! It’s not an appointment with your trainer. It’s your buddy and you’re enjoying time together, while varying your exercise routine.”
Studies confirm that people who integrate exercise with a mate enjoy their routines for life. It’s more like play. “This is what our bodies were made for!”