The Joy of Flex

by Rajul Punjabi

When people think of romantic venues, global hotspots like Paris, Bermuda or Fiji often top the list. But it turns out an even quicker trip, to the gym, may be your portal to improved physical and emotional intimacy. In fact, working out together side-by-side builds not only bigger muscles, but a stronger emotional bond.

“In any type of physical activity, endorphins and adrenaline are released, so you’ll feel happier,” says Stacy Kaiser, an LA-based psychotherapist and the resident advisor on VH1’s Celebrity Fit Club, Tyra Banks and Greg Behrendt shows. The added benefit? Do it together, and you’ll associate this insta-mood boost (think: runner’s high) with your significant other. That, in turn, creates positive associations in the relationship.

Bringing your partner along also increases the odds you’ll stick with the routine. “Everyone who joins the gym has great motivation in the beginning, then they lose it, explains Ralph Anastasio, general manager of The Printing House, a full-service health club in downtown New York City, “but working out with somebody boosts your attendance and your ability to reach your goals.” The gym actually instituted a two-for-one policy to encourage the trend.

And fitness a deux doesn’t have to mean a high-impact sport or monumental goal, like training for a marathon (though it might!). “Bowling, yoga or even horseback riding are great…anything that allows time for interaction,” says Kaiser. The key is making the commitment together, and sticking with it. Below, three couples who are fit and happy share their workout secrets:

Couple #1: The Knockouts
Glynis and Adam
Age: early 30s
Location: New York, NY