HOW MEN CAN SUPPORT WOMEN IN THEIR FITNESS JOURNEY

Whether it's your wife, girlfriend, sister, mom, or best friend, the women in your life might be on their own fitness journeys, and your role in supporting them can be bigger than you think. Encouragement, understanding, and respect go a long way in helping them stay motivated and feel confident.

So, how can men step up and be real allies in their fitness journey? As a son to a mother, brother to sisters, a husband to a wife, a father to a daughter, a male friend to female friends and a male coach to female clients, I'd like to share with you 10 simple but powerful ways to show up for the women in your life when it comes to their health and fitness.

Encourage, don't criticize

No one likes unsolicited advice, especially when it comes to fitness. Instead of pointing out what they “should” be doing or critiquing their form, focus on encouragement. If she's trying a new workout, support her efforts instead of nitpicking the details. Do let them know that you're always willing to help or give advice should they ask for it. Be welcoming instead of imposing!

Be a workout buddy (if she wants one)

If she's into the idea, working out together can be a great bonding experience. But make sure it's something she actually wants to do, not something you push onto her. Try joining her for a class she enjoys, spotting her at the gym, or even just going on a walk together. For example, I frequently invite my sisters to fitness events that they can join. Fitness should feel fun and supportive, not forced.

Respect her fitness goals

Her fitness journey is hers alone, and her goals might not look like yours. Maybe she's working on strength, endurance, flexibility, or simply moving more for mental health. Whatever it is, respect it. Don't assume she wants to train the same way you do or that her goals should match yours.

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Educate yourself on women's fitness

Men and women experience fitness differently--hormonal cycles, recovery, and even metabolism play a role. A little research can go a long way in understanding why some days she might feel stronger and others more fatigued. Being aware of these factors makes you a better, more empathetic supporter. Also, as a male coach, I need to know more about how fitness differs for women so that I can serve my female clients better.

Compliment more than just looks

This one is not talked about enough. Yes, telling her she looks great is nice, but try going deeper. Compliment her dedication, strength, progress, and effort. “You're getting stronger” or “I love how committed you are” goes a long way in reinforcing that fitness is about more than just aesthetics. By only receiving positive reinforcement in the form of aesthetic compliments, fitness can eventually be less enjoyable.

Help create a supportive environment

Little things matter. If she's making an effort to eat healthier, don't sabotage it by constantly bringing home junk food. If she's setting aside time for workouts, respect that time. Support can be as simple as not tempting her away from her goals.

Aside from this, I try to include the women in my life in bigger communities where they can feel welcome and meet other people whom they can relate with. I may not be someone who can inspire them but I can always be someone who connects them with others who can.

Celebrate her wins

Did she hit a new personal record at the gym? Run her longest distance? Stay consistent for a full month? Celebrate it! Even small wins deserve recognition, and knowing you see and appreciate her hard work will keep her motivated. Also, do remember that there are a lot more ways to celebrate wins that do not involve taking steps back in fitness.

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Understand that fitness isn't always easy

Some days are tough. Maybe she's frustrated with progress, feeling discouraged, or just having an off day. Instead of downplaying it or telling her to “just push through,” listen and offer support. A simple “I see how hard you're working, and I know you'll get through this” can mean the world. Fitness also does not have to always be at 100%. Small wins can also keep the momentum going on the off days.

Join her in healthy habits

Fitness isn't just about the gym. Join her in cooking healthy meals, getting better sleep, or finding ways to reduce stress. It's easier to stay on track when you have a partner in the journey rather than feeling like you're doing it alone.

For me and my wife, we generally go to the gym together. We agree on a healthier grocery shopping list. We also agree on our bed time so that we can get enough sleep together.

Let her have her own space in fitness

Not everything needs to be a couple's activity. If she enjoys training solo, respect that. Giving her the space to have her own fitness identity--her own routine, classes, and personal goals--shows that you respect her journey as her own.

For instance, my wife is a competitive footballer and that is an activity that is mostly hers. I do not have to force myself to play the sport but I do enjoy watching her games (and driving her to the games and back home).

Men, remember that being a supportive partner in someone's fitness journey isn't about pushing your own beliefs or routines onto them. It's about encouragement, respect, and understanding. Fitness is a personal thing, but having someone in your corner makes the road a whole lot easier. So be that person--supportive, uplifting, and always cheering her on.

And women, in case you are reading this, share this in the hopes that more men read this!

Happy Women's Month to all!

This article How men can support women in their fitness journey was originally published in GMA Entertainment.

2025-03-15T18:37:25Z