How Married Couples Can Lose Weight Together

Losing weight on your own can be difficult. However, if you work with your spouse, getting fit should be easier.

There are many benefits to dieting with your spouse. Studies show that when one partner succeeds at weight loss, his or her spouse is more likely to also slim down. Couples who eat healthfully and exercise together may also be happier in their relationships.

Once you and your spouse decide to lose weight together, you should Google, "What is Thrive" and see if that program is right for you. Here are some other tips that should help you both succeed in your weight-loss journeys.

1. Set Realistic Goals

Communication is a key part of any marriage and is particularly important before the start of a diet. You and your spouse should discuss your individual and couple goals. This way, you can each support each other throughout the process.

Make sure that your goals are realistic. You should not expect to lose a large amount of weight in a short period of time. Instead, aim to shed one to two pounds each week. If you have a lot of weight to lose, set several smaller goals for yourself. For instance, you could initially aim to drop 10 pounds in eight weeks and then eight pounds in the next six weeks.

2. Hold Each Other Accountable, But Keep Things Friendly

The best part about losing weight with your spouse is that you can hold your partner accountable, and vice versa. However, being accountable does not mean acting overly strict. Your partner may quickly get discouraged if you yell at him or boss him around.

There are ways you can keep track of each other's progress without going too far. For instance, you could both step on the scale at the same time each week. You may also want to pick out a pair of pants that your husband should be able to wear once he reaches his goal. You can put the pants in his closet as a motivating tool. Your spouse can do the same for you.

Friendly competition is another accountability tool. Just make sure any teasing remains fun and light-hearted. Otherwise, your partner may feel embarrassed and could overeat as a result. Remember that everyone loses weight at different rates. If your spouse is shedding the pounds more quickly than you are, that does not mean you are failing at your weight-loss journey.

3. Find Fun Couples' Activities That Don't Involve Food

In the past, a romantic date night for you probably involved eating at a fattening restaurant or snacking at a movie theater. Look for fun, healthy activities you and your spouse can do together instead. You could take dance classes or go on a hike. Dancing, in particular, can burn 100 calories per session. It can also add more passion to your relationship.

Cooking is another great way you and your spouse can bond. Come up with healthy recipes that you can prepare together.

4. Follow Healthy Diets

To cook those healthy meals, you need proper preparation. Plan all of your meals in advance, and make your grocery list as a couple.  Ideally, the meals should include ingredients you both enjoy. That way, you and your spouse will only have to cook one dish at a time.

Your kitchen should include plenty of lean proteins, such as legumes, eggs and poultry. These ingredients support your body's metabolism. Fruits and vegetables are important, as well. They should make up half of your daily diet. Many of them are bulky and should thus keep you feeling full for a while.

Instead of completely eliminating bread and pasta from your diets, opt for whole-grain versions of these foods. Finally, you and your partner should measure out each other's portions before each meal. This should prevent both of you from eating too much.

If you and your spouse need to lose weight, then you should start a diet and exercise plan together. This should make the process more fun and improve your odds of success.