Do Couples That Workout Together Stay Together? Here’s What Science Says

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Couples that sweat together, stay together,” at least once. While it might sound like just another catchy slogan for #fitcouples on Instagram, there might actually be some truth behind it! Studies and experts suggest that when couples engage in physical activities together, it can significantly benefit their relationship—and not just in the gym.

Whether it’s tackling a partner workout, jogging through the park, or simply doing yoga at home, exercising as a duo creates opportunities for bonding, understanding, and supporting one another. Curious how? Here are six surprising ways working out together can strengthen your relationship, backed by research and real-life benefits.

Lee and I trying out hand at pickleball for the first time.

1. Shared Goals Build Stronger Bonds

When you and your partner hit the gym or start training for a race, you're working toward a shared goal. This teamwork fosters a sense of unity and accomplishment.

Research shows that working together on challenging tasks builds not only trust but emotional intimacy. For example, setting fitness goals—whether that’s running a 5K, mastering pull-ups, or just hitting three workouts a week—gives you both something to strive for together. Each challenge you overcome as a team strengthens your bond.

How this benefits your relationship:

Creates teamwork and collaboration.
Boosts motivation to succeed together.
Reinforces commitment, showing you're truly "in it" together.

2. Stronger Physical Connection = Stronger Emotional Connection

Exercise isn't just great for your body; it’s great for your brain and your heart, too. When you work out, your body releases hormones like endorphins, the “feel-good” chemicals, and oxytocin, also known as the “bonding hormone.” These natural mood boosters can make you feel closer to your partner.

A 2017 study in the journal Psychological Bulletin found that couples who engage in physical activity together report greater feelings of satisfaction and emotional closeness. Plus, activities like partner yoga or even synchronized movements during workouts can strengthen nonverbal communication between partners.

How this benefits your relationship:

Enhances feel-good emotions tied to your partner.
Encourages shared happiness and reduces stress.
Creates more opportunities for physical touch, like high-fives or hugs.

3. Healthy Competition Keeps Things Fun

Workouts don't need to be all serious business—injecting a bit of healthy competition can spice things up between you and your partner. Who can do more burpees? Run faster? Hold that plank the longest?

Not only does this add a playful edge to your routine, but it can break up the monotony and keep things exciting. According to research published in the Journal of Sports and Exercise Psychology, competition can increase effort levels during exercise, meaning you're both likely to work harder when you’re pushing each other.

How this benefits your relationship:

Adds a playful, lighthearted spark.
Motivates you both to challenge each other and improve.
Keeps your workouts interesting and exciting.

4. You’re Each Other’s Biggest Cheerleader

We all have days when we don’t feel like working out. Maybe you’re stressed, tired, or just not feeling it. That’s where having a partner becomes a game-changer.

Couples who workout together are more likely to hold each other accountable and provide support when motivation dips. Encouraging your partner to get up and move, and vice versa, is a powerful way to show you care about their physical and mental well-being. A study by Indiana University revealed that couples who work on their fitness together have higher rates of adherence to workout routines compared to those who exercise separately.

How this benefits your relationship:

Boosts accountability—no more skipped workouts!
Builds trust as you rely on each other for support.
Shows care for each other’s health and happiness.

5. It Improves Communication Skills

Working out together often requires some level of communication. Whether it’s syncing your movements during a partner exercise, planning a hiking route, or spotting each other during a heavy lift, you’re constantly exchanging information.

Over time, these small moments of collaboration create better communication patterns in your day-to-day life. You’ll learn how to offer constructive feedback, encourage one another, and even resolve small hiccups when things don’t go as planned.

How this benefits your relationship:

Fosters better listening and teamwork.
Helps you give and receive constructive advice positively.
Strengthens everyday problem-solving skills.

6. Spending Quality Time Together

Between work, family, and social obligations, finding time to connect with your partner can sometimes feel impossible. Exercising together ensures you prioritize time for each other, away from distractions.

Even just going for a run or hitting the gym for 30 minutes creates moments of connection that are solely yours. You’ll laugh, sweat, and (maybe) curse that last set of push-ups—together.

How this benefits your relationship:

Gives you uninterrupted "us time."
Balances physical health with emotional connection.
Helps create a shared hobby that strengthens your partnership.

Research supports this idea as well. A study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that engaging in shared physical activities helps improve coordination and trust between partners, leading to greater relationship satisfaction. Similarly, a study in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine highlights that couples who participate in fitness activities together are more likely to stick to their exercise routines, demonstrating the motivational aspect of having a loved one by your side.

The Bottom Line

While working out together doesn’t guarantee a perfect relationship, studies and real-life examples show it has substantial benefits for your bond. From improving communication to creating shared goals, sweating it out as a team strengthens more than just your body—it strengthens your love.

If you’re looking for inspiration to get started, try picking workouts you both enjoy or test out partner-based fitness classes like yoga or cycling. And remember—fitness is as much about the joy of movement as it is about the gains!

Couples who workout together, what’s your favorite fitness activity to do with your partner?