Couples that diet and exercise together get better results than trying to go at it alone. I recently entered a "Biggest Loser" competition at work. When my wife found out she decided that dieting and exercise was a good idea and since I was starting than it was a good time for her to start as well. Neither of us are obese, but most of us can stand to lose a few pounds and treat our bodies to a more balanced and healthier diet. I know, New Years and weight loss/exercising resolutions abound. Every year we mean to change things and every year we all join a gym and pay twelve months dues only to show up for two months. The great American way. This year try doing it together, not as separate entities but truly together. Since both of us are trying to eat better, than our meals are always healthier and portion control is now carefully watched by the eyes across from the dinner table and your will power now has an assistant. That makes it much easier since you no longer have to just answer to yourself when you ask for thirds.
Somewhere I read that if both lovers are in agreement on dieting and exercise, than it has more of a chance of sticking. If only one person is dieting, it can lead to jealousy and contempt by the other person. It may not be an overt smack down fight but sooner or later the signs will start to show. The one not dieting will tend to try and sabotage the others healthier mindset and workout routine. Meanwhile, the dieter will come across as having a "holier than thou" attitude and will seem to cast a shadow of guilt over the other person on how they eat and their lack of exercise. Although these accusations are probably not well grounded and is not meant to be mean spirited, the human intellect will plant the seed of discontent in your brain.
Get together and talk about living a healthier 2012. Focus on eating better together; focus on exercising together. If weights isn't your thing, who cares. Join a place where you can swim together. Much of these clubs are now family friendly, so if need be you can bring the kids. Bike together, jog together, play tennis together, do something, just do it together. As we all have experienced, our lack of motivation will snowball into the end of your resolution. Motivate and encourage each other and work through the rough days. On the plus side, when we feel better about ourselves physically it shows and translates to body confidence and, more than likely, more intimacy with our partners. Happy New Year!
