Partner and family workouts that everyone can do

The holidays are about time together. So why not spend some of it moving? Working out with a partner, a friend or your family can turn exercise from a chore into something everyone looks forward to.

The workouts below are designed so people of different fitness levels can do them together. A new exerciser and a regular can train side by side, each at their own pace.

Why training together works

• It's more fun. Laughing through a workout makes the time go faster.
• You show up more. It's a lot harder to skip a workout when someone is waiting for you.
• You push a little harder. A little friendly encouragement goes a long way.
• It's quality time. In a busy season, a shared workout can be some of the best time you spend together.

Partner workout 1: You go, I go

One partner works while the other rests or holds a position. Then you switch. It's naturally scaled, because each person works at their own pace.

While your partner works, hold a plank or a wall sit. Hold it until they finish their set. Suddenly you really want them to hurry.

Partner workout 2: High-five circuit

Scaling: Either partner can do push-ups on their knees, squat to a chair, or hold a plank on their knees. The movements still sync up.

Family workout: The relay

This one works for kids, parents and grandparents. Set up four stations in the living room, backyard or garage. Everyone starts at a different station.

• Station 1: 10 jumping jacks or step jacks
• Station 2: 10 squats
• Station 3: 5 push-ups (wall push-ups count)
• Station 4: 20 seconds of plank or bear crawl

Spend about 45 seconds at each station, then rotate. Do 3 or 4 full rounds. Let kids pick the music. Let grandparents set the pace. Everyone does their own version.

Family workout: The game-day challenge

Watching football this holiday? Assign a move to each event in the game:

• Touchdown: 10 squats
• Field goal: 5 push-ups
• Commercial break: 30-second plank
• Penalty flag: 10 jumping jacks

It turns couch time into a game, and it gets competitive fast.

Tips for training together

• Let everyone scale. Make sure everyone knows they can choose an easier or harder version. The goal is to do it together, not to do it the same.
• Keep it short. Fifteen to twenty minutes is plenty, especially with kids.
• Make it a tradition. A workout on Thanksgiving morning or a walk after dinner can become something your family looks forward to every year.
• Celebrate. High-fives, cheering, and a group photo at the end. Make it feel like a win.
• Safety first. Clear the space and keep an eye on younger kids.

If anyone in your group has a health condition or an injury, have them check with their doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

Bring someone to Boom

If you've been wanting to get a partner, friend or family member into the gym with you, a group class is the easiest way to do it. Coaches handle the plan, everyone works at their own level, and at Boom you'll both be welcomed into a gym family that loves new faces.

Want more ways to stay active together this season? Check out how to stay active over Thanksgiving week.