Joint physical activity linked to healthier marriages

A study published in the journal Family Relations, part of the Couple Relationships and Transition Experiences (CREATE) project, suggests that engaging in physical activity together can lead to healthier marriages. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 1,700 married couples in the United States over a decade.

While general physical activity is associated with better relationships, the connection is stronger when partners exercise together. This shared activity is linked to improved communication, better conflict resolution, and reduced marital stress. Jeremy Yorgason, a professor at the BYU School of Family Life, noted that joint exercise helps couples manage conflicts more peacefully.

Walking was identified as the most beneficial activity for communication. Unlike high-intensity workouts that require intense focus, walking allows partners to converse easily while moving. Researcher Ashlyn Hiatt Mildenhall stated that physical exercise had the greatest impact on communication levels within the studied couples.