In Other Words with Dave

“I’m not friends with you anymore.” 

That’s what Alison told Mike, our trainer, after our very first workout session. Things were going fine until we hit lunges— the exercise everyone loves to hate. They target those lower body muscles like glutes and quads, and apparently, they also target Alison’s patience. 

Luckily, she got over it, and we’ve been working out with Mike twice a week at the Mitch Y for months now. Originally, we planned to use a trainer to get started and then go off on our own. But it turns out his guidance, encouragement, and, most importantly, accountability, have been a game-changer. 

Having scheduled sessions means we show up, no excuses. Mike keeps us on track with proper form, varied routines, and the occasional laugh—like when he suggested we get matching tattoos that say, “Body by Mike.” We told him that kind of branding might take years to earn, but we appreciated his optimism. 

Working out together is something new to us. Sure, we’re building muscle, but we’re also strengthening our relationship. We’ve learned new things about each other, too. 

For instance, I’ve learned that Alison claims she was born without certain leg muscles—at least, that’s her excuse every time she pedals an exercise bike. Meanwhile, she’s discovered that I sweat more than an average human. 

So, would I recommend strength training with your spouse? Absolutely. It’s challenging, it’s fun, and it gives you both a shared goal to work toward. Plus, if you can survive lunges together, you can survive anything.