“For better or for worse, in sickness and in health.” The old vow may be more accurate than we realise. Research suggests your choice of romantic partner could have a significant impact on your wellbeing. Couples often mirror each other’s habits, whether that’s hitting the gym, enjoying nutritious meals, or reaching for late-night snacks Studies confirm that your partner’s health behaviours can directly influence your own.
At Executive Health Solutions (EHS), we see this reflected in our own data. Lifestyle choices, from sleep and nutrition to activity levels, are among the most common risk factors identified during an executive health assessment. And because these risks are often shared within households, addressing them can improve not just individual wellbeing but also family health.
1. Weight: Healthy Habits Can Be Contagious
The phrase “fitspo couple goals” may sound like an Instagram cliché, but science backs it up. A study from Johns Hopkins University found that when a wife increased her exercise routine, her husband was 70% more likely to get moving too. Similarly, when a husband met recommended fitness goals, his wife was 40% more likely to join in.
The University of London also found that an overweight person whose partner lost weight was three times more likely to lose weight themselves. Shared habits can make the difference between long-term success and stagnation, something our health coaching programs are designed to support.
2. Sleep: Rest (or Lack of It) Spreads
Sleep is vital for health, and it turns out couples share more than a bed. A study of over 1,000 couples found that if one partner suffered from sleep apnea or snoring, the other was also more likely to experience poor sleep.
Poor rest doesn’t just leave you tired. Research shows it increases stress and irritability, which can lead to relationship strain. As neurologist W. Christopher Winter, author of The Sleep Solution, explains, “All of the things it takes to make a relationship work are probably completely decimated by lack of sleep.”
That’s why our executive health programs place such strong emphasis on identifying and addressing sleep issues early. Poor sleep is one of the biggest drivers of reduced productivity we see in organisations.
3. Type 2 Diabetes: Shared Lifestyle Risks
Health risks extend beyond sleep and fitness. A study of more than 75,000 couples found that the spouses of people with type 2 diabetes had a 26% higher risk of developing the disease, and were more likely to develop prediabetes.
The reason? Shared routines. Unhealthy diets and inactivity can raise risks for both partners — but making positive changes together has the opposite effect, lowering the likelihood of chronic disease.
Our assessments look closely at biomarkers for diabetes and other chronic conditions, giving executives the chance to make changes before health issues escalate.
Healthy Habits to Try with Your Partner
Want to improve your health and your relationship? Try these couple-friendly tips:
Swap dinner and drinks for a walk or scenic hike.
Set joint fitness goals and reward yourselves when you achieve them.
Cook a healthy meal together while catching up.
Make evenings a no-phone zone for better connection and better sleep.
Try a new fitness activity to spark motivation and release dopamine.
Sync your sleep schedules, as couples who sleep and wake at the same time often report better rest and stronger intimacy.
