With romance in the air, and the ever so awkward Valentine’s Day gift looming, why not get two for the price of NONE this lovers’ season with a gift to treat both yourself and your partner!
Whichever way you look at it, working out with your partner has its benefits! So this Valentine’s Day, why not change things up from the regular, boring, standard flowers and dinner combo and do something physically active and fun with a partner or friend… Just remember, it’ll make you look better in your underwear!
Read on for a few hints to help you on your way.
(1) Sex:
Come on, I know you were all thinking it! Why not on Valentines Day? Or any other day for that matter… Sex is fantastic for your health, and I’ll give you a few quick reasons why. (1) Cardiovascular Health- research has shown an INVERSE relationship between the frequency of sex and the likelihood of suffering a life-ending heart attack. (2) Calorie Burning- could there be a better way to increase heart rate, get a bit sweaty and fire up our metabolism? I doubt it! Sex burns around five calories a minute. That means breakfast can be dealt with in around twenty minutes... Get busy! (3) Immune Function- science has shown us that having sex a few times a week increases the body’s production of health-protecting antibodies. (4) Improves physical and mental health- regular sex is associated with lower diastolic blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and helps us manage our overall stress levels. (5) As if I need to give you anymore reasons!
(2) See above.
(3) Take a hike (with your partner!):
A romantic hike to or through a spectacular location is a great way to spend time with someone. Hiking is a great way to build strength in your lower body and improve your overall fitness. The more varied the terrain, the better the workout. For all you smooth operators, a nice touch is to pack a healthy picnic hamper to eat when you arrive at your destination. Extra points if you decide to read your partner poetry when you get there… bit mushy for me though!
(4) Dancing:
Quick fact- on average, half an hour of dancing will burn around 150 calories; it’s also fantastic for your cardiovascular and muscular systems. Have a think- have you ever seen a dancer who looks out of shape? Dancing is a great way to get active with a partner or friend. You could take a lesson, go to a club, or simply turn up your favourite tunes and jump around the living room (with the curtains shut). It doesn’t matter what you look like, as long as you’re moving and having fun.
(5) Get Beachside:
There is nothing better than Aussie beaches, especially during summer. The beach is a great place to spend time with a friend or your significant other. Catch some sun, build a sandcastle, walk in the soft sand (its better for you), or even better take a walk at sunset, take a dip, have a surf (ladies in bikini’s beware of wardrobe malfunctions), throw a ball, play beach soccer, the list is endless so get creative!
(6) Go Climbing:
Rock climbing is perfect for couples on Valentines Day. After all, what other two-person activity puts your date’s life in your hands…literally! Rock climbing is a fantastic total body workout that builds strength, flexibility, balance and concentration. If you have never climbed before, don’t stress! Most climbing centres have intro classes that give you all the basic skills to get you started. Tip: Be sure to ask your date whether they’re afraid of heights BEFORE you arrive!