It’s the season of love and what better way to start your wellness journey then with your significant other or BFF!! Since we’ve been locked up in quarantine for the past year, we have had to be more creative with the ways that we exercise and move our bodies throughout the day to day… Going on long walks can be great but sometimes, it can just get downright boring. Sometimes we need to channel our inner kid and have some FUN!
I am here to give you a little inspiration for things that you can do with your partners, children, or friends (if you’re in each other’s bubble) that can make exercise seem more appealing. Because let’s be honest, if it’s not fun, I don’t really like working out. Just me? Okay!
In some ways, our bodies crave regularity and routine, especially with what foods we eat. (Steer clear of too much Valentine’s Day candy and sweet treats!) But in other instances, our bodies and muscles need us to mix it up a bit.
It actually is beneficial to introduce new movement and strengthening exercises into your routine to help improve your muscles ability to do their job without any issues. Our muscles get used to moving in the same ways and stop responding unless we change things- like changing the routine, altering the resistance and more!
What other benefits are there to exercising with others?
Competition- a little bit of healthy competition pushes you to work harder and get stronger
Accountability- its great to have someone hold you to your exercise program that you create and commit to for your body to be healthy and active
Motivation- studies have proven that we do better and put in more effort when someone is cheering for us!
> Try a bit of cheerleading for your partner and watch the changes it makes in the effort factor for your workout
Variety and Creativity- we all have great, new ideas on how to spice up workouts and add some variety to it
Catch up time - life is busy and getting your workout done with a friend or partner is a great opportunity to catch up on what’s going on in your life
The time will fly by - when you workout with a friend, the time that you commit to your workout will be so much faster than if you did the workout by yourself
Falling in love with each other - if you are working out with your partner, you should know that exercise causes the symptoms of psychological arousal (sweating, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath)
>These symptoms can boost your attractiveness to your partner >Try it out and see how it goes?!
Top Partner Exercises:
Here are a few NEW partner exercises that will surely ignite that childlike fire inside, but also may inspire you to be more creative when putting together your at-home workouts. Let’s try them together… and remember don’t be shy, no one can see you.
1. Let’s start with simple hamstring stretch!
Both you and your partner lay on your backs with your feet propped in the air. Both of your bums should be touching and as well as your legs. One partner will then press their legs into the other person’s legs to facilitate a nice deep hamstring stretch.
The goal of this exercise is to keep both of your knees as straight as possible to ensure the hamstring is able to stretch across both the hip and knee joints. After holding for about 30 seconds, the opposite partner will then press into the other person’s legs. Repeat this 3 times on each side.
If it’s too much to straighten both of your knees at the same time, try to straighten one leg, hold for 30 seconds. Then switch to the other leg and let your partner have a turn before you repeat it!
2. Full spine stretch
This one might be my favorite! Stand facing your partner with your feet a little wider than your hips. You and your partner are going to both lean into each other and fold both your arms to rest on your shoulders. If you need a visualization here is what it should look like.
Take a few deep breaths into your stomach (diaphragmatic breathing) and try to sink lower and lower until you feel a nice stretch through your whole spine. Try synchronizing your breath with your partner. Not only does it change your nervous system as an individual, but it strongly helps improve your connection emotionally in partnership.
3. Who’s ready for some ABS?! This is an exercise that works your upper abdominals and obliques and is surely going to make you break a sweat!
Sit on the ground back to back with your partner. Both of your knees will be bent up towards you. One partner takes a weighted ball or anything you have lying around the house (you could even use a full, unopened jar of pasta sauce if it’s all you have in your pantry) and keep it close to your body. You are going to engage your core and twist towards your partner to hand them the item. Alternate directions so you are targeting both sides of your abdominals. Once you get to 10, give yourself a break. Try 3 sets of this exercise for a maximum burn!!
Make sure that the ball (or jar of sauce😊) works for you and your partner being challenging, without causing pain or being too heavy to use for one of you.
Remember, Teamwork Makes the Dream Work!
4. Wheelbarrow push-ups & squats
This one is very fun and really challenges both you and your partner’s upper body strength. One partner is going to be lying face down on the ground, in preparation for performing a push-up and the other partner is going to be standing behind them.
The partner standing will then grab the ankles of the person lying on the ground. The person on the ground will then perform a deep push-up while the standing partner holds their legs and performs a squat.
Make sure that your core is engaged and that your back is straight no matter which position you are in. After 10 reps, switch positions with your partner and repeat!
This is also fun for you to do with your kids if you are lifting them and then an adult is helping you!
5. Squats with an overhead press
Have you and your partner face each other. You hold a weighted ball (or your jar of pasta sauce) in front of your body.
Both of you squat down at the same time, slow and controlled making sure that your knees stay behind your toes. You should be sticking out your bottom as if you are going to sit in an imaginary chair.
When you stand up, bring your weighted ball overhead and then pass it to your partner. Your partner will then bring the weighted ball in front of their chest and you will squat back down together.
Repeat this process 10 times each making sure to squat down as much as you are able to make your legs work!
6. Lastly, let’s do a full body burn AKA a partner plank!
Now this photo may seem intimidating and if you’re not wanting to be that adventurous, simply face your partner in a plank position and challenge each other to a plank off! Whoever breaks their plank first, pays for the Valentine’s dinner
Try side planks facing each other and see who can hold it the longest. Then every other day, challenge each other again to see if you can hold longer. Keep a record in a journal so that you can track your progress and try 2 on each side to get stronger.
But if you are feeling adventurous, climb on top of your partner once they are in a plank position. The top person will hold onto the bottom person’s ankles for stability and gently lay their feet over the bottom persons upper back. See how long you can hold this position together. Really try to keep your bottoms tucked under so that your core can be properly engaged!
Build up to this position as it is very challenging and requires a lot of strength! Send us a picture when you are able to do it at getbetter@breakawaypt.com.
YOU DID IT!! If you made it through that whole workout, give yourself and your partner a high five. I hope you enjoyed being creative and getting out of your comfort zone a bit. I know I did!
Challenging ourselves is one thing but being challenged as a team is another achievement in and of itself. The reward is great when we push one another to be better in all aspects of our lives!
If you enjoyed this workout and are looking for more ways to get active or have an old injury that is keeping you down, please email us at getbetter@breakawaypt.com or call us at 410-702-4053 to schedule your FREE consultation with a licensed physical therapist! We look forward to hearing from you and helping you along your fitness and wellness journey!
Caroline was born and raised in the Mississippi Delta and if you listen closely, you will hear her fun accent “yawl”. She loves to travel and spend time with her friends and family.
She attended Auburn University for her Bachelors in Exercise Science (WAR EAGLE!) and then went on to get her DPT from University of Mississippi Medical Center. She became interested in Women’s Health during PT school, where she saw the amazing changes to the body that can happen with this type of treatment.
Exploring the outdoors is her favorite and she is excited to see more of the Maryland area. She has taken many yoga and barre classes, which helps further her ideas for her patients. Reading books keeps her mind and energy going, as well as her competitive spirit of how many books can she read in a year?! How many can you read?
This is a fantastic office! I am so grateful for Jessica's kindness and understanding. She is very patient and sympathetic. Everyone in the office is very professional and kind.
Tim F
14:19 30 Nov 25
I have completed PT regimens for hip-muscle, shoulders and both hands over the past two-plus years. My injuries have curtailed much of my at-home fitness programs, and also affected my ability to walk, get in and out of my car, and even my sleep. I have been treated by all the staff, and they are excellent: professional, knowledgeable and encouraging. I am completely healed and better than ever! The entire organization is welcoming, friendly, and always made me feel comfortable and valued. I have completed three PT regimens with them, and Breakaway is hands down the best.
Elias Ruvalcaba
13:45 13 Nov 25
Laura Tarnosky
19:05 25 Oct 25
An unexplained and serious back injury led me to seek physical therapy this past summer. I started with a random PT clinic, in-network with my insurance company. After one visit, I realized that I didn’t trust that the therapist heard me or felt the severity of my pain. I contacted Breakaway the same day, as they had been recommended by two friends. Shaina met with me and I immediately felt that she understood my situation and would create a plan to get me back to my regular life. She and her team are wonderful. They listened to my concerns and created exercises and explanations that made sense and that I was able to do at home.As I progressed, I was able to tell them each week what I wanted to get back to doing, and right away, they gave me the exercises to regain my mobility, from being able to sit in a chair or a public toilet, to walking normally, to returning to my long-term exercise program, and next week, to being able to dance at my daughter’s wedding. I have worked mostly with Emma and I have appreciated her patience, her knowledge of PT and the body, and her responsiveness to what I was experiencing each week. I am so grateful and would recommend Breakaway to anyone in need of quality, caring PTs.
Thomas Michaels
12:51 24 Oct 25
Very courteous, professional, friendly, effective and on time! Had great results. Well run organization, absolutely the best!!Breakaway Physical Therapy sets the standard.
Vicky Hinkle-Lagasse
20:27 14 Oct 25
Everyone is so nice at this location! I would also like to share how impressed I am with how they listen and are so patient and genuinely seem like they want you to succeed and feel better.
Kathy Walton
13:27 11 Oct 25
Absolutely the best PT experience I have had. Every therapist is top notch. I recommend any person needing PT use Breakaway. They are the best. The girls at the front desk are amazing. Very friendly atmosphere.
M L
15:35 05 Oct 25
The entire team at Breakaway is phenomenal! I received the best care, courteous service and extraordinary PT. My body feels great and I am so very thankful for finding this wonderful facility.
steve grimaud
18:25 03 Oct 25
I continue to enjoy the very positive effects of the experienced physical therapists at Breakaway PT. I see regular and strong improvement over the course of treatment plan this far. I'm happy and I'll keep coming back as long as I need the therapy.
Didi Doyle
18:17 03 Oct 25
I love Breakaway Physical Therapy! They are an amazing group of people! From the owner, to each therapist! I have been going there for 2 problems! First it was a pelvic floor issue, which they solved and in the process I hurt my back and hip at the gym. I have seen most of them but my favorite is Kayla! She is wonderful! She has helped me be patient with myself and encourages me to not give up on the process. I have many physical and medical issues but Kayla never gave up on me! I owe everything to Breakaway and Kayla! Thank you for being wonderful therapists and for Shaina, the owner, for having a great place! Everyone is so sweet and caring! ❤️👏👏👍
Sarah Ward
18:07 03 Oct 25
I have extensive experience with physical therapy. I have been to four different PT clinics in the area for a variety of problems. Past experience shows that many physical therapy clinics offer a rote structure of exercise; the exercises are predetermined by condition (eg knee replacement), There is no variation in the treatment. Also, there is no personal connection between the therapist and the client.Breakaway physical therapy is hands down the best. PT is adjusted as progress is made. Great care is taken in movement and muscle development, and the exercises are adjusted accordingly.Another unusual thing about Breakaway is, although there is a common space with equipment, there are five individual therapy rooms. I’ve never felt like one of many in a train of physical therapy patients.I appreciate the level of professionalism and personal connection by the staff at Breakaway. I strongly recommend Breakaway for any physical therapy need.
Kathleen Johnson
18:01 03 Oct 25
I learned a lot about myself. Program very. Helpful. Had to stop due to other obligations!Highly recommend
Rita Moday
22:57 02 Oct 25
I have attended PT sessions at Breakaway for many months since I was injured in a car accident earlier this year. I was treated by everyone..Jessica, Emma, Shaina,and Kalah. Each one of them were so skilled, kind and friendly. The front desk staff , Tiffany and Brianna, were wonderful too, always so accommodating with scheduling . I’m feeling so much better now and would highly recommend Breakaway to anyone needing physical therapy. They are top notch!
M M
18:17 02 Oct 25
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! I hesitated for a long time before calling, because I felt vulnerable about my health issue. But I am beyond glad that I finally called and started going to Breakaway! The staff have been incredibly professional, kind, and attentive - they have made me so much more comfortable with this process. I am about halfway through my treatment plan, and am feeling a million times better already. And am also learning a lot more about how my body works, which is pretty cool. Would 100% recommend this place to others.
Mary McInnes
18:16 02 Oct 25
I can’t say enough about my experience at Breakaway Physical Therapy. The facility was well kept and inviting. The support staff was very supportive and friendly. And my therapist, Jessica, was one of the best I’ve ever worked with. Her compassion, knowledge base and ability to motivate were beyond a 5 star rating. I would highly recommend this agency to anyone looking for an exceptional PT experience.
John Gardner
16:54 01 Oct 25
Excellent therapy. The staff is very friendly and my therapist is outstanding
Elizabeth Desimone
01:36 30 Sep 25
Breakaway Physical Therapy is the best physical therapist a person can go to—for anything, but especially when it comes to the pelvic floor.Every person is so kind and generous with their time and knowledge. Tiffany, Brianna, and Shelley at the front desk are so warm and welcoming. I’ve worked with Shaina and Kayla for my pelvic floor and other problems as they’ve arisen, but Emma and Jessica are amazing and kind physical therapists too!If you’re still reading, one of the things that make working with Shaina and Kayla so special to me is their kindness and patience with me and my body—especially in moments when I’ve felt sad, scared, and depressed. Part of my pelvic floor problems spring from trauma I’ve experienced and Shaina and Kayla taught me that it’s important to have a positive experience for internal work especially.I’ll admit that internal work is never the easiest, but, several times, when I first started, Shaina and Kayla called a halt to internal work because I was in far too much pain, but used to forcing myself to grin and bear it. Them paying attention to my comfort and helping me realize that there would sometimes be pain, but that there was such a thing as pain so bad that it was okay to say stop, gave me confidence and the power to create more positive associations.Also, as someone with many different health problems, the Breakaway Team, but Shaina especially, are always coming up with ways to modify exercises or experiences to make them inclusive and available to me. I’m always so appreciate for their knowledge and cleverness. Never once have I felt as if I’m an inconvenience or just one of many patients.People at Breakaway care and they take the time to get to know you. If you’re on the fence about calling like I was before I started, my advice is to push through your anxiety and make the call. Tiffany, Brianna, or Shelley will be on the other end of the phone waiting to guide you through the process.I won’t lie and say that it won’t be scary. Change can be a bit scary. Healing and improving your health is worth being scared or nervous for a little bit of time. In one year from now, you can be better/greatly improved OR you can be scared and stuck where you are now.It took many years for me to make the call, so there’s no judgment here if you aren’t ready yet. As someone who waited far too long, but then found this amazing place with amazing people…take it from me and take a chance. It just might change your life like it’s changed mine.Thank you to everyone at Breakaway PT!!
Susan
12:11 27 Sep 25
While I’ve just had my first appointment, I have more scheduled. People are very welcoming. My therapist, Jessica, is empathetic and knowledgeable. I’m looking forward to my life without pain.
Brenda Blanchfield
13:39 22 Sep 25
My experience with Breakaway Therapy is wonderful! Their approach is uniquue. They focus on you, your whole wellbeing. I leave each session feeling stronger and hopeful.
Ar Whitmore
11:56 21 Sep 25
I’ve been seen at Breakaway for about 3 months now. I have a lot going on health wise so they are treating me for 4 different issues. I can’t sing enough praises for how quickly 10 years of horrific pain is gone. Every issue I have has been greatly improved in a short amount of time. All they therapists answer my questions and understand my needs. They consider the whole me. I’m soooooo grateful to them and wish I’d found them sooner.
Lucie R-B
21:48 18 Sep 25
When I first arrived I could barely walk. 4 months later I am doing much better! The staff gives 1 on 1 care like nowhere else! Great staff! Great care! Look how further.
Patti Tobaygo
20:55 18 Sep 25
matthew quagliato
19:40 18 Sep 25
Mary Bargteil
19:09 18 Sep 25
The sensitivity and understanding of the staff and the therapist is unparalleled. I am receiving such thoughtful care. Thank you.
David Moday
20:57 11 Sep 25
I was a patient at Breakaway for many months following a bad car accident. Over that time I was treated by all the therapists. Each one was so kind and skilled in their own way, but all coordinated together to provide me consistent care. They were all so good at explaining everything and encouraging me all along the way. I am grateful for their skill, their empathy and their kind, friendly manner. I highly recommend them! Rita Moday
Cherie Yelton
19:29 11 Sep 25
I was very happy at Breakaway. Kalah is a dream to work with. She listens and shares her knowledge. I learned so much about anatomy and how it all works together. She was a great teacher and the knowledge she passed on enables me to take care of myself so that I can live my best life (in the garden, on the trail, at the loom) without pain. I highly recommend Breakaway. Everyone is cheerful, kind and willing to help with scheduling, etc. Can't think of a negative thing to say about this company.
Matt L (SixShooter)
13:30 11 Sep 25
Everyone at Breakaway has been wonderful to work with. I increased my mobility and flexibility after a hip replacement due to a car accident. The team is patient, thorough, and a joy to work with. Highly recommended.
Angelo Hunt
11:38 28 Aug 25
I highly recommend Breakaway Physical Therapy! They are so caring to your needs, always a friendly professional atmosphere. Only disappointment because I can only leave 5 stars, this place is a 10 out out 10 for sure!
Gini Spicer
01:29 22 Aug 25
First visit was met with professionalism by all, friendly, informative, and I'm feeling confident I will receive the treatment I need to live a fuller, healthier lifestyle.
Jan Atwood
17:09 08 Jul 25
Steve Cone
11:54 07 Jul 25
I started with Breakaway because of recommendations from past and active participants. My time spent there has been very good for me and even at the age of 88, I intend to return. I have nothing but the highest praise.
Maris Walker
21:54 23 May 25
First of all, I truly look forward to coming to PT to have professionals help guide and train me to take better care of my degenerative disc disorder. Thank you for your patience and the quality of your kindness.With huge appreciation- Maris Walker
Sharon Michelson
12:48 17 May 25
I currently have the pleasure of receiving treatment at Breakaway. Physical Therapy, and I can't recommend them enough. From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming, professional, and genuinely invested in my recovery.All the therapists are highly trained (DPT) and knowledgeable and tailor their approach to my specific needs. They took the time to explain each exercise (and added it to their own App) ensuring I understood how to do it and how often. I particularly appreciated their encouragement and hands-on guidance, which made a huge difference in my progress.The facility is clean, well-equipped, and has a positive atmosphere that makes each session enjoyable. Scheduling was easy, and I never had trouble getting an appointment that fit my schedule.Thanks to the expert care I received, I've noticed significant improvement in my issues. If you're looking for a top-tier physical therapy practice that truly cares about its patients, Breakaway Physical Therapy is the place.
dave conrad
16:24 16 May 25
Love Emma for all of her support and for her help with all of my balance issues
Joan
22:07 10 May 25
Lawrence Mccormick
16:09 22 Apr 25
Emma is fantastic! Takes time to explain things clearly and has no problem answering questions.
Trent Adams
21:02 08 Apr 25
Haoua Diallo
02:38 06 Apr 25
Naomi B
14:14 03 Apr 25
If I could give this place more stars I would but unfortunately 5 is the max. The front desk and the rest of the staff is very friendly. I was blessed with having Jessica as my PT and she is honestly God sent. She is very kind and patient with her patients. I’ve had so many improvements with her help. Keep up the great work staff!
Praneet Mathur
21:17 20 Mar 25
This was my second time using Breakaway . I went there again because the therapists are caring, patient centric, great sense of humor, happy, cheerful, and supportive. It is a “boutique” and everyone treats you like family. This time I worked with physical therapist Emma who is super nice. I just cannot say enough good things about her. She knew that this was my second time. So she worked extra hard to find the root cause . After finding the cause, she found appropriate exercises . I did exercises with her as well as she gave me prints of these to do them at home. Wish Emma and the entire staff them best of luck and success.
Mack McKinney
15:13 02 Mar 25
A patient, caring staff designed a pelvic floor PT plan for me, and then a core-strengthening program. Both worked great!
L B
19:43 26 Jan 25
Great experience! Really knowledgeable PT and PTA. Highly recommend.
Julie Hancock
19:28 08 Jan 25
The year 2024 included several bad falls for me that affected both of my knees adversely. I came to Breakaway Physical Therapy for help and they delivered in a big way. From exercises, to stretches, to taping my knees for support, everything these kind folks did helped my knees strengthen and heal, so now I can walk, hike, bike and climb stairs comfortably, without fear of falling. I highly recommend this great physical therapy group!- Julie
Bennie McKinney
18:38 30 Dec 24
I love Breakaway Physical Therapy. The Physical Therapists I have seen, Shaina and Kahla are wonderful. They are confident in their field, they listen, tell me what they think I need to do and what is wonderful if I am having trouble with something else physical they will help me with that too. I even have my husband going now. If you are having incontinence this is the place to go. The front staff is wonderful too, friendly, professional and organized. I see patients from knee and hip replacements to back problems, bladder etc. They do it all. If you need a Physical Therapist Breakaway Physical Therapy is the one to go to. Sorry if I misspelled their names
Tiffany Williams
17:25 25 Oct 24
Hands down Breakaway offers the BEST physical therapy experience I’ve ever had! The one on one session is specific to your needs and private. The staff is very welcoming, compassionate , professional and easy to talk to. I have personally been treated by all the therapists and I would highly recommend Breakaway Physical Therapy to anyone looking to improve their quality of health or even to recover from an injury or surgery.
Paulette Stowers
15:36 25 Oct 24
It is a great pleasure to share my PT experiences about Breakaway Physical Therapy. I have been a patient for almost 2 years being treated for various things. The Staff have all been exceptional and patient. Physical Therapy Staff are very professional and extremely knowledgeable of their fields and provide the care and interest a patient needs. Support staff are also professional in their scheduling and responding to information. The environment is welcoming and tidy. I highly recommend Breakaway for your physical therapy needs. Just give them a call! You certainly won't be disappointed.
Eduarda Pinto
15:40 24 Oct 24
75$ fee for a no show no call, my pregnancy brain expected them to email me or text with a reminder like they did every other appointment. This fee would cover 2 co pay appointments. Definitely not coming back
Paul Simmons
15:09 17 Oct 24
Had a great experience at breakaway Crofton came Fromm out of town handle everything for me the service and staff is wonderful Miss Shelly and Miss Emma wonderful people and great conversation thank you very much my shoulder is doing good ❤️😊
Janeen Nelson
22:36 02 Oct 24
They are knowledgeable, professional and caring. I know I am in good hands and have seen an improvement in my condition. I’m so glad that I found Breakaway Physical Therapy.
