Sure, you’ve always wondered if it’s actually possible to be *that* fit couple – Dwyane and Gabrielle. Chris and Elsa. Kim Possible and Ron Stoppable. – but maybe she’s not a “cardio girl”, or he “doesn’t get yoga”. Fear not, dear reader: we’ve consulted the pros for couples’ workout tips, and this fitness meet-cute contained all the ingredients for a top training journey. Read on for more about PTs Kelly Smith and Jonathan Jones’ couple’s workout tips.
Working out with your partner is a golden ticket if your goal is to stick to the plan. An August 2026 study published in Family Relations found that young married couples who exercise together report better communication, stronger conflict resolution, and lower marital stress compared to those who do not. In a separate study, a multi-decade Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study tracked 3,261 spouse pairs across six-year medical visit intervals. The results: health habits are very contagious. If one spouse is dedicated to fitness, the other becomes more likely to also meet those exercise targets over time. The rates are promising for wives influencing husbands – when she was highly active, her husband was 70% more likely to meet his fitness goals over time.
But it doesn’t always work seamlessly. A 2024 study found that when your fitness depends on another person, the disparity in physical fitness ability can inadvertently throttle the faster partner’s workout. That’s not to say it won’t work, but flexibility and accommodation can do wonders. Here’s how PTs Kelly Smith & Jonathan Jones made their couple’s workout routine stick.
READ MORE: How To Smash Your Fitness Goals, According To Caitlin Hood & Mapule Ndhlovu
It Started In The Gym
From their first date in 2020 (a leg day session at the gym post-lockdown), it became clear PTs Kelly Smith & Jonathan Jones shared a serious love for fitness. “I lived in that world daily through coaching and bodybuilding, while Kelly had her own rhythm and approach to training,” recalls Jonathan. “There was mutual support, but not necessarily alignment.”
Naturally, the couple began structuring their gym time together, each making clear their personal goals. For Kelly, the plan was to compete in a bodybuilding competition, while Jonathan wanted to build discipline and consistency. Eventually, he decided to compete as a bodybuilder as well.
How Kelly Smith & Jonathan Jones Built A Shared Workout Routine
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The goal: Build a sustainable lifestyle
Secret sauce: Routine
In order to share their fitness journey, the couple turned to tried-and-true methods, approaching the journey the way they’d lay out a plan for their clients. “We relied on structure and tracking,” says Jonathan. “Having a clear plan removes the guesswork.” They printed their meal plans and stuck them to the fridge; they used a printed calendar to track and schedule training sessions.
And, they behaved as though each workout was a work meeting: it couldn’t be skipped. But, since they’re humans, the couple also made sure to define their roles as partners. By treating things professionally, they were able to give each other constructive feedback without it feeling like personal judgment, they say.
READ MORE: “I Hear So Many Excuses From Women Who Want To Get Fit – Here’s What I Say”
Happy Endings All Around
By sticking to the plan, Kelly and Jonathan found success on stage and in love. “Once we built the habits of training together,” explains Kelly, “making our meals together and ticking all the daily boxes (such as steps and daily calorie intake), it all started feeling natural and like it was part of our lifestyle and less like a chore.”
The trophies became beacons of proof of their consistency: in 2023, they competed together, each earning a gold and silver award, with plans to take things professional. And the relationship? Dear reader, they’re betrothed.
“Align your goals – if you are not moving in the same direction, it won’t last.”
– Kelly Smith
READ MORE: How One Personal Trainer Lost 30kg – And Kept It Off
Steal Their Playbook
Get Firm
A scientific approach works for the wavering. “Set clear expectations – make a clear plan and put it up somewhere where you can physically see it every day,” advises Kelly. “Align your goals – if you are not moving in the same direction, it won’t last.”
Start Small
“Start with small daily habits such as a daily walk together with the dog, for example,” Kelly suggests. Or, cook healthy meals together, remind each other to sip water or do simple stretches.
Don’t Be Hard On Yourself
“Most importantly, enjoy the process,” says Jonathan. “If it feels like punishment, it won’t stick. With Kelly being both my partner in the gym and my partner in life, it makes it fun, training with my best friend.”
This article first appeared in the Jul + Aug 2026 Issue of Women’s Health South Africa. Words by Michelle October.