Back in January you made the resolution to exercise more regularly, and you’ve stuck to your word, but just like in any relationship, the sweetheart phase is dwindling and now you’re tasked with figuring out a way to keep things fresh and exciting.

If you made the resolution to exercise more but haven’t really stuck with it, try partnering up with someone. This will hold you accountable to showing up, which is the hardest part of any workout.

If Covid turned you into a home gym junkie but you’re sick of Peloton and Youtube workout videos, try live streaming online classes at local studios so you can connect with neighbors and friends. The JCC of Greater Columbus still offers live and archived virtual classes through the “Virtual J” on Facebook Live. This is a great way to try something new in a non-competitive environment while working out at home. Be Well Studio on Main Street offers virtual options for barre, yoga and sculpt classes, so even if a class is fully booked, you can still attend from home. Bluespot Yoga in North Bexley offers virtual classes that correspond with certain in-studio classes. A live link is emailed to you prior to class and a recording is sent following class.

If we get a pleasant winter day, going for a walk, jog, run, hike or bike ride is a great way to catch up with a friend or loved one while connecting with nature and much healthier than meeting over a drink or dinner. Alum Creek Trail is always a great local trail because there are hills on your way there from Bexley and you can go all the way to Easton if you want. If that doesn’t work for you, try signing up for one of Bexley Recreation’s adult classes with your spouse, friend or partner. Research shows that trying something new with another person deepens your connection to each other.

Pam Pollock Pilates offers individual, duet and small group Pilates classes custom-tailored to your needs, so if you are trying to perfect your golf swing, rehabilitating an injury, or trying to regain strength after having a baby, you can share your goals and take live Pilates classes in person or over Zoom or Facetime.

Any way you slice it, exercising releases endorphins which can help make you happy, healthy and confident, which can benefit your relationship with the one you love. Exercising together can be fun and exciting in itself because you’re connecting on a new and different level than the usual, “Honey, what’s for dinner? Did you take out the trash? What are we doing this weekend?”

In the end, you’ll feel invigorated, which can manifest in many positive ways in your relationship, and best of all, you’re making positive, healthy changes, which YOU deserve.