If you and your significant other have been partners in putting on some extra pounds, you can take them off the same way. It's naturally easier to make significant lifestyle changes when you're both on board with the same plan, but there are also ways to adopt healthier eating habits and more exercise even if you feel like you're being sabotaged at times.

First, take into account the gender differences when it comes to gaining and losing weight. As you've probably noticed, women gain weight more easily and men lose weight more easily. After all, men tend to be larger so they can eat more and usually have more muscle mass, which boosts their metabolism and helps them burn more calories. Still, there is some good news for women too. Women are more likely to gain weight in their hips and buttocks. Men tend to gain weight around their abdomen, which is much more dangerous because it increases the risk for diabetes, heart attack, strokes and other problems. Studies also show that men are less likely than women to see doctors regularly so wives and girlfriends can play an important role in encouraging their partners to make their health a higher priority and follow their doctor's advice if they need to lose weight for medical reasons.

If you're both ready and willing to get in shape, that kind of mutual support goes a long way to getting better results and helping you stick to your resolutions for the long term. Despite all the fad diets and strange gadgets on TV infomercials, losing weight is still fundamentally about eating fewer calories than you burn. On the eating side of the equation, split up the responsibility for shopping and preparing healthier meals according to what works best in your household. Hitting the local farmers market on weekend mornings and preparing gourmet meals may become even more pleasurable than eating take-out pizza. When it comes to exercise, you may want to get a family membership at the local gym so you can spend more time together while you’re slimming down. If you prefer Pilates while your mate plays basketball, you can enjoy the solo time but find some weekend and vacation outings that you'll both enjoy like hiking or bicycling.

If one or both of you are feeling a bit reluctant, put your communication and negotiation skills to work to make the most of your health and your relationship. Talk about the benefits of becoming healthier and having more energy. Reassure your partner that you're not abandoning them and there's no reason to feel jealous. If your leisure time has been all about watching TV and eating chips, gradual changes may be easier to swallow. Go out for a walk before crashing on the couch and snack on cut vegetables dipped in salsa. The good news is that weight loss rarely endangers a sound relationship. On the other hand, if your partner insists on trying to undermine your efforts, it could be a sign of deeper issues that you need to address.