February 12, 2012

Nothing brings a couple together like having some hobby, game or activity to enjoy together – and choosing a fitness-based activity to do together can help you rely on your partner as motivation and encouragement to get an amazing body.

If you want to get fit with your partner, you could certainly join a gym together, try out an indoor soccer or volleyball league, sign up for group class like yoga or spinning, register for the same 10K or triathlon, or just start going for regular walks together.

But let's get more specific.

What if you're stuck at home with relatively little exercise equipment, but you still want to get a great workout and you want to involve your partner?

Yes, I know what some of you are thinking. I admit that's a great workout too, but you can't exactly do it when the kids are around, or maybe you just need an alternative…

So here are five partner exercises that you and your Valentine can use to get an amazing body – whether you're at home, at the gym, or anywhere else!

Try doing these five exercises as a circuit, from beginning to end, with minimal rest.

Partner Exercise #1: See-Saws

You'll need an exercise tube or exercise band for this one. Stand facing your partner. As one of you squats down to the ground and pulls the tubing with straight arms between the legs, the other extends and raises the tubing overhead with straight arms and shoulders squeezed back. Do 10-15 repetitions per partner.

Partner Exercise #2: Sword Fights

Stand 3 feet away from your partner, facing them. With your dominant hand, point your index finger at your partner. Your partner reaches out with their dominant hand, grasps yours, and points their finger at you. You then try to “stab” each other as you resist your partner. Set the clock for 30-90 seconds and see who gets the most points during that period of time. Here's a fun video to help you learn this exercise:

Partner Exercise #3: Partner Rows

You don't need a ball for this one, as you could just use a chair, or get into a deep squat or lunging position. All you really need is exercise tubing or an exercise band. Your partner hold the elastic, providing the resistance, and you pull – squeezing your shoulder blades back and keeping your core tight and back straight. Do 20-25 reps and then switch.

Partner Exercise #4: Partner Pullups

This one can be tough. Grasp hands with your partner as they straddle your chest. Pull yourself up as high as possible, then lower slowly and under control. Do 10-15 reps per partner.

Partner Exercise #5: Partner Leg Throws

Be careful with this one if you have any low back issues – but if you're athletic enough to handle it, this is a great exercise for developing dynamic core strength. Do 5-10 repetitions in each direction for each partner.

Enjoy your workout, and Happy Valentine's Day from the Greenfields!

If you have your own partner-based exercises to add, or questions about the partner exercises described above, just leave your feedback in the comments section below.