It’s so easy to fall into a dating rut, especially in the winter.
All anyone really wants to do is snuggle up under a blanket and watch some Netflix, and if a special someone is there with you, all the better.
But with the weather warming up, it’s time to shake out the cobwebs and try out some active dates.
Active dates are perfect for everyone. Whether you’ve been with the same person for years or are just exploring some potential, doing something fun outside gives you both an excuse to laugh, talk and joke around without the awkwardness of wondering when you should take a bite of your food. Active dates are also perfect for group settings, and they can easily turn into fun events with just your platonic friends. So find the next sunshine-y day on the calendar and choose one of these activities to get your heart pumping in all the right ways.Paddleboarding
If you live near a state park with a lake or a large river, you can most likely rent paddleboards for an hour or two. Paddleboarding looks terrifying, but don’t knock it until you try it—standing up on a paddleboard is super easy. So easy, in fact, that you don’t even need to wear a bathing suit if you don’t want to. You won’t even realize how hard you’re working your arms and your core because you’ll be so busy enjoying the sun reflecting off the water and chatting with your date.
Four Square
Bring it back to the elementary school playground! Four square is the ultimate trash-talking game that requires little-to-no actual athletic skill.
The king of the court can make up whatever ridiculous rules he or she pleases, so if you have a creative and silly group of guys and girls looking to know each other better, look no further than a local playground.Tennis
If you played tennis growing up, this sport is a no-brainer for a single or double date. But even if you never actually learned the rules, it’s so fun just to keep a volley going. Try playing with more than two people per side if you have a bigger group, or throw in a few extra tennis balls to make things more exciting. You’re bound to leave the court feeling energized, pumping you up for wherever your date might lead you next.
Knockout
If you have two basketballs, a hoop and a fun group of guys and girls, knockout is the perfect group game because it’s fast paced and high energy. The goal is to score a basket before the person who shot in front of you does. The winner gets eternal glory; the losers get a few laughs and an excuse to playfully push and shove a cutie.
Scavenger Hunts
Want to up the creativity level even more? Plan a scavenger hunt. This could be perfect for a one-on-one date in a walkable city. You could each list five things you want to find (ranging from a person in a purple hat to a famous monument at sunset), and then spend the day racing around the city trying to take pictures of as many items on your list as possible. Looking to rope in a few more friends and make it a competition? Create two teams who have to meet back at a certain point with evidence of their findings. You’re sure to spend the day sprinting around the city, getting those endorphins raging for any evening activities.
So really, there’s no excuse for another dinner and a movie date. The sun is shining; take that crush or love of your life outside for a new adventure to keep things lively this spring.
Feature Photo via The Sweaty Betties