How to Get Your Guy to Start Exercising

By Christian Bossert

You know what they need to do, but they just won’t do it. You encourage them, but it’s going nowhere. They say, “I need to eat healthier, I should exercise,” yet something isn’t clicking. They continue to gain weight, they’re down on themselves, and unhealthy habits go from bad to worse.

You you may begin to feel hopeless change will ever occur. You have good reason to think this. Your friend, family member, or partner has shown that they simply don’t care. What can you do?

Unfortunately, this is a situation I see often. It’s difficult. It’s emotional. It is painful. It hurts to watch someone you care about basically give up on themselves. You want to help, but they won’t listen to you. The solution to this debacle may be easier than you may think. By easy I mean simple.

I’ll explain in a few easy steps. Changes may not occur overnight, but that’s okay. When you apply these steps consistently you will make a difference. You can totally do this!

1. Stop telling them what to do - The most important step can be the most difficult step. When we care about someone, how do we not to express our emotions or opinions to them? It’s tough to hold your tongue when you know you’re right and they’re WRONG. Fortunately, with practice you will become better. Start with a deep breath and hold onto your two cents.

2. Provide strong encouragement when they do suggest something good - This is the golden opportunity. You can express your opinion here. Reinforce what you want for them. You want them to be healthy. You want them to take the absolute best care of themselves. When your loved one says that they ate a salad get excited! Let them know your joy and happiness when they hit the gym. Don’t make this an eye rolling moment. Cherish their small victories. The small wins are HUGE!!

3. Be the example - They should be eating healthier and exercising. Take control of what you can control. Go to the gym. Work out consistently. Stock up on fruits and vegetables. Kick butt at taking care of yourself and they will notice. Trust me. THEY. WILL. NOTICE.

4. Be Patient - This is a kicker. You will want to rip into your ‘unhealthy compadre’. I can’t blame you. Our emotions are things. Emotions control us. No one will fault you for expressing your disappointment in loved one completely letting themselves go. Hold back and be patient. Trust the process of holding your tongue, being encouraging, and showcasing your healthy habits. It works. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but changing your approach can.