Stretches

• Stretching and warming up is important before any exercising or physical activity. Use each other to help stretch a bit further or include sensual stretches you both can enjoy.
  
  "Connection breathing: Face your partner. Start by putting your palms together. Press your arms to your side then motion them up over your head. The woman leaves her hands over her head and the man runs his hands down her arms back to start position. Next, the woman outlines the face of the man and returns back to the start position. Alternate and repeat the motions four times." This was recommended by Jen and Jim, found on NeverSayDiet.com.
  
  Sit on the floor facing each other with your legs spread as far apart as you are comfortable with. If possible, have your feet touch each other. Hold hands in front of you and take turns bending and stretching forward. The partner not actively stretching should pull gently to help stretch his partner. Hold for 10 seconds, then repeat four times. Switch roles in the stretch so each partner is equally stretched.
  
  One partner lays flat on her back, and lifts her legs straight in the air. Her partner will gently push her legs back toward her head -- gently -- to create a stretch, but not too far to avoid injury. Do both legs for 10 seconds, five times, then each leg by itself. Switch positions.
  
  

Partner Exercises

• Exercises that specifically involve both of you to help each other work out can strengthen your bond and relationship as well as your muscles.
  
  MensFitness.com suggests bride lunges for men. He holds the woman in the traditional "over the threshold" pose, then performs lunges while alternating legs. Stand straight up, holding your partner. Move one foot forward, then bend the back leg until your knee is almost on the ground. Raise back into a standing position and repeat using the other leg. Aim for 12 lunges with each leg per set, and work your way up to three sets.
  
  Another couples exercise recommended by MensFitness.com is manual-resistance bicep curls. Roll a towel up, and have one partner grip each end of the towel with her hands straight down, in front of her. As she brings her arms up, bending her elbows, he should hold the center of the towel, creating resistance. Do not try to prove how much stronger you are than your partner, the idea is make the bicep muscles work without straining them.
  
  Another exercise you can do together is crunches or sit-ups, as recommended by Jackie Warner. Lay on your backs with your knees bent, opposite each other, then interlock your legs. One partner spreads her legs apart, keeping them on the outside while his legs are in between hers. Use a 10-lb. weight that you pass back and forth to each other when you sit up for added resistance.
  
  

Get Moving

• Exercising generally leads to increased stamina, strength and self-image; performing physical activities together is a positive activity you can share in your relationship. However, not all exercise means lifting weights, going to the gym or doing endless crunches. Find a mutual interest and expand on it. Take salsa dancing, martial arts, yoga or spinning classes together. Hike, walk or ride a bicycle with each other. Thirty minutes of physical activity, three times per week, will have you both feeling more energetic while giving you quality time away from work, the TV or any of life's other numerous distractions.