If you've ever felt like you get more out of your workout while exercising with a partner, it's not just your imagination.
According to a study published in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine, working out with a partner can, in fact, increase your performance. The results of the study probably aren't too surprising. After all, not only can working out with a partner help when you need a spotter at the gym, exercising with someone else means you can keep each other motivated. Not to mention, it can make it more fun — especially with a significant other.
In fact, another study from researchers at Indiana University found that married adults were far more productive and motivated when they attended fitness classes with their partner than those who attended classes alone.
And while there's nothing wrong with the classic dinner-and-a-movie date — it can get a little old sometimes. Trying new and exciting things together can be great for your relationship. New experiences, according to research from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, trigger the same brain chemicals that are ignited during your relationship's early romantic honeymoon phase.
Active dates are a fun way to try new things together and stay healthy at the same time. Read on for some fun ideas for what to do.
Go Swimming
If you and your partner need a way to beat the heat this summer, a lap or two at the pool is a pretty good bet. You’ll get a workout and cool off. Plus, the pool isn’t just for swimming: Recruit some friends for a double date complete with some volleyball or Marco Polo.
Photographed by: Laura Perlstein.
Walking The Dog(s)
If you're going to be spending a lot of time around each other, it's probably a good idea to make sure your pooch is accustomed to your significant other. If you both have dogs, get them familiar with each other, too.
If neither of you have dogs but love 'em anyway, offer to walk a neighbor's dog or volunteer at a kennel.
Photographed by: Ashley Batz
Gardening
It may not seem like much of a workout per se, but if you're looking for a creative date that involves a little more activity than usual, without making you work up too much of a sweat, this is a good one.
Photographed by: Anna Alexia Basile.
Yoga
Go ahead and get into downward dog with your significant other — a little more flexibility can go a long way.
Photographed by Winnie Au.
Hiking
You and your partner can have a quiet moment to catch up and connect, whether it's on a nearby trail or something that requires a weekend getaway.
Photographed by Anna Alexia Basile.
Biking
The great thing about cycling with a partner is that it teaches you to be on the same page and to go at each other's paces — literally.
Photographed by Ashley Batz.
Bowling
Not only is bowling active, it also brings a healthy dose of competition to the mix.
Photo: Getty Images.
Kayaking
Kayaking for one is great, but kayaking for two keeps you both in sync.
Photo: Getty Images.
Dancing
Salsa, ballroom, or swing: Pick your poison. Either way, the dance floor is a great place to get fit and intimate.
Photo: Getty Images.
Laser Tag
Whether you play on the same team or face off against each other, you'll be having too much fun to even notice that it's a workout.
Photo: Getty Images.
Go-Karting
Get your blood pumping with a friendly race or two.
Photo: Getty Images.
Skating
Skating gets your heart rate up, but not so much that you can't make room for a little conversation.
Photo: Getty Images.
Indoor Rock Climbing
Rock climbing can be intense, but indoor climbing gyms are a great way to get started. And who better to be your spotter than your significant other?
Photographed by Rachelle Manning.
Miniature Golf
Mini golfing is a classic date night activity for a reason — it's a no-pressure, playful way to get to know each other in a relaxed environment.
Photographed by Ben Ritter.
Snorkeling
Chances are, if you're on vacation together, you're not going to want to spend the entire time lounging on the beach. Snorkeling is a fun way to stay active on a getaway for two.
Photo: Getty Images.
Take A Fitness Class Together
Sure, you can hit the gym and hop on the treadmills together, but trying something a little more interactive could be way more fun. Try a Zumba class or even a SoulCycle session.
Photographed by CJ Isaac
Surfing
If you're lucky enough to be near the beach at some point this summer, take full advantage of it by picking up a board and learning to surf with your S.O. Don't worry if you both end up paddling — the important thing is that you're together.
Photographed by: Maia Harms
The Water Park
If, however, you aren't near a beach, you can still enjoy a day in the water. Head to the nearest indoor water park with your S.O., channel your inner kid, and hop on those slides.
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