Scientists say this simple habit could strengthen your marriage
A BYU study suggests that couples who exercise together report better communication, more effective conflict resolution, and lower marital stress. While individual exercise is beneficial, shared physical activity shows a stronger correlation with positive relationship outcomes.
Why it matters
These findings provide actionable, low-cost advice for couples looking to improve their relationship health through shared lifestyle habits.
Exercise is well known for supporting physical fitness and mental well being. New research from BYU suggests it may also offer benefits for marriage, particularly when spouses are active together.
The study, recently published in Family Relations , found that couples who exercised together reported better communication, more effective conflict resolution and less marital stress than couples who did not share physical activity.
The research was led by BYU School of Family Life professor Jeremy Yorgason with co-author Ashlyn Hiatt Mildenhall, who first became involved in the project as an undergraduate researcher at BYU.
"Our findings suggest that conjoint exercise facilitates, in a small but significant way, the ability to resolve conflict peacefully," Yorgason said. "People reported more positive outcomes in communication and conflict resolution when they exercised together."
Exercising Together Shows Stronger Relationship Benefits
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