Relationships can help support you through your fitness journey. Having an awesome partner to push you forward, keep you accountable, or even to motivate can make-or-break your success. In this article, ConFITdent chats with three fitness experts that have trained all types of clients and their wisdom on how a great relationship can help you.

What’s Your Take On Couples Who Work Out Together?

Sean Hyson

It’s the perfect situation. At this point in my life, I wouldn’t be in a relationship with a woman who wasn’t at least nearly as passionate about fitness as I am. I don’t think two people have to do the same routine and be with each other in the gym at all times, but they need to share that dedication. Eating right and training consistently takes an enormous amount of time and effort, and if you don’t share that with your partner, you simply won’t last as a couple.

Marc Perry

I think it’s awesome!

Adam Copeland

I think it all depends on the couple. I had a girlfriend that would love going to the gym with me and we got along really well while working out together. It really helped our relationship and definitely our sex life as well. I’ve also dated a girl that I would constantly fight with at the gym, so we decided to just have our alone time when we worked out. J I prefer working out with the girl I’m dating, but sometimes personalities and egos can clash and my best advice once you realize this has happened, is just don’t force it. A relationship isn’t doomed just because you don’t work well while working out.

Do You Think A Guy Approaching A Girl At The Gym Is Acceptable?

Sean Hyson

A guy approaching a girl at a funeral can be acceptable if the timing is right. You have to use common sense. Is she sweaty and gross and concentrating on what she’s doing? Are you going to interrupt her? Or did she ask you for help or make eye contact? Personally, I don’t look for social interaction at the gym because I’m there to work, but if you want to meet someone who shares this lifestyle, it makes sense to consider your options at the gym.

Marc Perry

I think so, as long as it’s in a way that’s not completely creepy.

Adam Copeland

I think it’s very appropriate, but it has to be tastefully done. I can’t tell you how many guys are brave enough to walk up to a girl that is jogging on the treadmill and ask them to take out their headphones so they can hit on them. Stuff like that happens to a girl almost every workout and it’s completely inappropriate. But if you make eye contact with a girl a few times and you feel she might possibly want to talk to you and you feel the urge to say hello, I think it is totally appropriate and usually well received to walk up and introduce yourself. My mentality though is that if a woman wants something she’s going to go get it, especially the type of girl that’s busting her ass in the gym! So I personally wait for extreme signs of interest, or I make myself available to give her the opportunity (“sign”) to strike up a conversation. But what do I know… I’m shy.

True Or False: Support From A Significant Other In Your Relationship Is A Must If You’re Looking To Get In Better Shape.

Sean Hyson

True.

Marc Perry

True in most cases.

Adam Copeland

False! The best gains I’ve gotten in the gym were the results of a woman breaking my heart.

How Would You Recommend Making Friends With Somebody At The Gym?

Sean Hyson

Compliment the person on his/her form or physique. Offer to spot. Offer to help out the trainers or the manager.

Marc Perry

If you frequent a gym and see someone doing an exercise you haven’t seen before, ask them about it. Or even ask them about how they train. I’ve found most people are cool with sharing their insights and workout routines and it’s a way to make a new friend.

Adam Copeland

Twist up a towel and covertly snap somebody in the ass with it in the locker room. I’m sure you’ll be friends in no time.

How Would You Recommend Encouraging Family To Be More Health Conscious Without Being Condescending?

Sean Hyson

Show them what you’re doing and try to explain it simply. If they ask for advice, give them one or two easy steps to follow and let them get comfortable in their new habits. Lead by example, not edict.

Marc Perry

I think encourage small changes over time and lead by example. Making food substitutions, or slowly cutting out soda can add up to big changes over time.

Adam Copeland

I would say the best way to encourage a healthy lifestyle on others is to invite them to share what you are doing. Also, you can find an activity that the person likes and try to pick up that sport or activity and enjoy time together while being active.