Fitness Over 50

just like with any major behavior/addiction change, it will effect the entire family. i would hope that family counseling is provided to all the participants.

Interesting question, Calli, and a very valid one, I think.

It's impossible for it not be an issue when there is such a radical change as in The Biggest Loser contestants. So much has changed in their life, both physically and mentally, I think they almost become differant people.

I think changes in fitness levels can affect couples even on a more modest scale. My husband was in much better shape than I was when we met. Now the situations have reversed, partly due to my desire to stay healthy, fit and "younger next year", while his health and fitness are deteriorating somewhat due to health issues and a back injury. Some of the things we used to do together like biking, skiing and beach walking has been greatly affected.

It makes me feel a little guilty sometimes that I put such an importance on trying to stay fit, but on the other hand, I think it is somewhat disrespectful to yourself and your spouse if you don't reasonably try to be the best you can be. I think a happier, healthier me is a good thing, for everyone close to me !

Wow..a very good question. I do think though they have concealing for all of them. I think because of the long time away, and for the drastic changes they will experience. I have heard some of the spouses were inspired and lost weight too. Others I'm sure are not so lucky. I would guess you'd have to be mentally prepared.
I agree with soulsister though that being a happier and healthier you is best for all involved.
Steph

It can cause a lot of problems in a relationship, especially when one partner seems to want to sabatage the other's efforts. Yes, when someone who is used to being heavy looses a lot of weight, they start looking at themselves differently and maybe their partner as well. It's like every other part of a relationship, you either grow together or you grow apart (and I'm not just referring to weight either).

Yes, I definitely think the relationship suffers. In my case I am determined to do as much as I can to stay fit and I do. My spouse on the other hand suffers from type II diabetes and although on medication, does absolutely no exercise, eats the wrong food and I think he is under the false sense of security that I will be here to look after him. He thinks that he has an in-house nurse, so he has nothing to worry about. His mom died at 88 last year from the disease and I suspect he thinks he will last that long and by then, who cares. He tells me he will exercise when he retires in two years. I say promises are to himself, not to me. I have seen this over and over where one spouse has absolutely no desire to take care of him or herself. It is very sad because it would be nice if they both share the same goals in life, that is, to be able to do things together, care for each other.

My husband and I support each other fully on health and fitness issues. He is also a personal trainer and he has seen first hand how relationships can change when a client is excited about getting fit and the spouse tries to drag them down. He tells them, "Do what is right for you".

"Be happy or change."

This is a very big social issue that you raise. The same conflicts occur with friends and family! The one that gets fit is usually surrounded with old friends who are NOT fit and family members who don't get it! Even Thanksgiving dinner can become a conflict! Social networks can undermine your effort unless you change or unless you are mentally strong.

Personally, I could not be with someone who was self destructing whether it be with alcohol, cigarettes, or donuts. They will only drag us down with them. Couples who get together to support each other shouldn't have a problem with a new sense of fitness. The smart ones will learn from each other.

I'm a big fan of the Biggest Loser. It's open the eyes of many American and now around the world to our modern day health crisis.

Very good question ~ I can't get my spouse to go with me to the gym. I'm trying to keep fit and healthy and she doesn't do anything. She needs to work out and then she gets upset that I'm losing pounds and people notice. It has put a strain on our relationship that's for sure! I have to say I wish she was more fit and took care of herself. My eyes do wander more.

This hit home - hard. My ex NEVER exercised since high school (married at 18, me 20). So obviously, she was in good shape when we wed, she was in shape thanks to her P.E. teacher. Six months in, her clothes didn't fit. I was ridiculed fore my time spent working out when "there were more important things to do." She didn't even see a doctor for over 18 years (when the last child was born).

I can relate to this. It definitely puts a strain on a relationship. Image, intimacy, just daily life are affected by what kind of physical condition our bodies are in. In my own case it is a contributing factor to the end of my marriage which is happening as I write this.