Six ways to get active this Valentine’s Day
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The times, they are a changing.
As more and more of us make a concerted effort towards living a fit and healthy lifestyle, the idea of romance is shifting. While I certainly think that a healthy lifestyle shouldn’t exclude chocolate (particularly on special occasions), a day filled with chocolates and a three course dinner complete with a lush dessert can put be a challenge if you’re trying to lose or maintain weight. Not to mention, pretty taxing on the old wallet.
Romance and fitness needn’t be mutually exclusive. In fact, it’s pretty widely acknowledged that shared experiences – particularly new experiences – help create closeness within a relationship. Whether you share a love for fitness or not, moving your bodies and having fun together can be oh so romantic and give you lasting memories.
It also happens that Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday this year. Weekdays can be a bit crazy for the vast majority of us, and squeezing in a workout can sometimes be a struggle – let alone setting aside time for a romantic date! Double up with these easy ways to get active with your squeeze this Valentine’s Day.
Walk it out
Walking is so underrated as a fitness activity! I personally set a goal of 10,000 steps a day and I usually get around half of that in with my significant other. If we’re not going for a stroll in the early morning to grab coffee, we’re walking down to the supermarket to get that missing ingredient for dinner. This is also a great one because if you have kids you can take them along too and make it a family affair!
It’s also an excellent option because (usually) it isn’t too high intensity, so you can carry out a conversation without too much difficulty. Quality conversation plus getting some exercise equals one superb way to spend your time together.
Put on your dancing shoes
You needn’t wait to get engaged to enrol yourselves in dancing lessons. What could be more romantic than dancing cheek to cheek? You’re sure to have a laugh, have fun, burn some calories and of course have a little bodily contact (hello, oxytocin!). Whether you’re after something sexy like Samba at Subsdance or something a little crazy like No Lights, No Lycra, this one will definitely send hearts a flutter.
Ain’t no mountain high
I’m constantly singing the praise of our gorgeous landscape. With mountains all over town, there’s plenty to tackle together. My favourite is Mount Ainslie. It’s certainly a challenge, but the view from the top is absolutely gorgeous! Head up early in the morning to watch the sunset together, or climb at dusk for a breathtaking sunset (just watch your step on the way down).
Gym junkies
Couples that train together, stay together… or something like that. I actually don’t usually work out with my partner, but I know couples that do and they say it works quite well. I also know others that can’t stand it. On the rare occasion that I do workout with my boyfriend, I love it. It gives me a sense that we’re working towards our goals together.
Even if you do workout separately, why not join forces for Valentine’s Day and complete a workout together? Something like a circuit works well – just make sure you have options that are challenging for both of you.
Acro yoga
I’m not sure how so many couples on Instagram make this look so graceful, because when my partner and I attempt it, there’s often limbs flying everywhere and plenty of stacks. We keep coming back to it, because it’s so much fun. It’s also a bonding experience because there’s lots of trust involved as well as plenty of communication. Watch a tutorial on YouTube together and head down to your local park to practice on the soft grass.
Between the sheets
Yep, I’m going there. Sex is an important part of a romantic relationship and if ever there was a day for it, it’s Valentine’s Day. Slip on some lingerie that makes you feel sexy (or take it all off), and get busy!
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