So you’ve found the one. They are perfect. In your eyes, they can do no wrong. You two have settled in together, and you couldn’t be more comfortable. You wake up in the morning a little later to stay in bed with them and you come home straight from work to see them.

As you make more time for your significant other, however, your focus on yourself and your fitness blurs. Suddenly, you’re happier than you’ve ever been emotionally, but physically, you’ve become complacent. That’s when you notice them—the extra, unwanted pounds. The pizza-and-movie nights have finally caught up to both of you.

There’s no doubt about it. You’re far more likely to live healthier if your partner is on the same page (or at least close to it). And certainly, your partner – and your overall life together – reaps huge benefits, too.

Here are some tips for helping each other launch or continue with a healthier, happier life as a couple.

1. Make It A Team Effort:

Take the “we’re on the same team” approach. Repeatedly, studies have found that couples working together make successful lifestyle change more likely. Let your partner know that you’re his biggest fan. When he wins, you win. When he makes the effort, even the smallest of steps, you’ll be cheering him on.

And remember that two people working toward the same goal enhances each other’s motivation and provides great support if the going gets tough.

2. Don’t Expect Perfection:

Despite your best efforts and teamwork, you or your partner may slip and have an ice-cream cone or not get out of bed on a rainy day to go to the gym. Fine Fine, you’re human! Just get back on your program, and praise yourself for all your success so far. If you beat yourself up for a temporary setback, you’ll feel badly and (no surprise!) reach for comfort food or be too demoralized to exercise. Let your partner know you’re having a tough time, and ask for support. Don’t let one mistake be an excuse for abandoning your healthy habits.

3. Replace Negative Comments With Positive Feedback:

Instead of trying to dictate a partner’s health – the restaurant entrees they order, the type of exercise they do – talk to them. Let them know how much they mean to you, and how much you look forward to spending many active healthy years together. Above all, notice when your partner is succeeding and compliment him! By doing so, you’re working together as a team rather than as a parent and child. Remember, too, you can be an example to your loved ones, and provide information to them, but they have to want to make lifestyle changes.

Whilst taking these tips and consistently applying it to exercising and healthy eating in your relationship, a regular visit to doctor to ensure your body system is in great shape and checked will also go a long way in achieving a hundred percent healthy lifestyle as a couple. To book a visit with the doctor or any health specialist, sign up on our digital referral platform – www.nmerexhealth.com – to get connected to the health specialist closest to you. Call 09087776660 for more information. Happy Valentine’s Day.