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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v09n03)
Gettin' Ripped in Ripple - Take a Wise Approach and Stay Out of the Doghouse! - by Laura Minor
posted: Feb. 03, 2012

Gettin' Ripped in Ripple header

Take a Wise Approach and Stay Out of the Doghouse!

Trying to motivate your spouse to lose weight/exercise more may put you on thin ice in your relationship. No woman or man wants to hear their spouse has noticed that they've put on a few pounds. Chances are, they are likely fully aware of this fact and it is embarrassing and/or frustrating. In fact, the mere mention of their weight gain could backfire, and cause it to be less likely for them to become active due to resentment. . . and this could lead to bigger problems. So, does the idea of motivating your spouse (or any loved one for that matter) seem like an impossible and lost cause? Not if approached in a smart and sensitive manner. Use gentle tactics to nudge him/her in the right direction, and then give all of the support and understanding that they need in order to reach her fitness and weight-loss goals. By working together and with positive support, not only are you both more likely to reach your goals, your relationship will improve as well! Here are some tips to encourage without judgment.
• Focus on health over weight. Don't ask them to lose weight because you'd find them more attractive (yeah, guys. . . a big no-no here!!). Put emphasis on longevity and quality of life instead. Showing concern for their health helps them to feel loved, as opposed to feeling hurt or sad that you just want them to be thinner.
• Attempt weight-loss goals together. Chances are, you aren't "perfect" either. We can all benefit from realistic goals. Families.com recommends that you take walks together, join a gym together or embark on other fitness goals as a couple. You may find that it becomes a common bond between you, and adds that extra level of "buddy" system and accountability.
• Enjoy cooking healthy meals together or even take over if your spouse is busy. If you teach yourself how to cook healthy they don't have to worry about counting calories or deciding what to put on the table. It's a generous offer and (if you are a good cook!) gives you the opportunity to change what is in the cupboards of your kitchen in a subtle way.
• Reward them and yourself as a way to congratulate each other on achieved goals. A massage, a smoothie maker, a new iPod player for the gym or some new workout clothes are great incentives to hit the gym harder or eat more healthy food. It's an easy way to be supportive without being pushy.
• Refrain from making comments about their weight in the past tense. For instance, never talk about the way that he/she used to look. This will only depress them and cause them to resent you for being judged. Instead, give positive feedback about their body now, mention all of the things that you love about their body and appearance, weight loss or not. Make the weight loss a healthy journey for you both instead of an "expectation" and it will be a more successful and positive experience for you both!
In summary, try to make this process as positive as possible. It will prolong your life, and your happiness!!



Laura Minor owner and operator of So.Be.Fit. Personal Training and Fitness studio located at 54th and the Monon. She is passionate about teaching others how to "FIT" exercise and physical activity into their daily lives, and have fun while doing so! Visit her website at www.sobefitindy.com or e-mail laura@BroadRippleGazette.com




laura@broadripplegazette.com
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