6 Outdoor Exercises for Couples
The saying ‘better together’ also applies to physical activity. Read this article to find out 6 outdoor workouts for couples. Exercising together as a couple is not only good for your health, but it can also be good for your relationship! This is not just a romantic theory. Studies show that couples who engage in physical activity together have better relationships.
Benefits of Exercise for Couples
A study conducted by the New York University Department of Psychology through surveys and personal interviews found that couples who exercise together have better relationships and perform better in other aspects of life.
Additionally, exercising with others has been shown to be an additional incentive to continue doing so. Not only that, but allowing one person to help another, can also improve the way people exercise.
Moreover, according to a study published in the Journal of Social Psychology, exercise for couples increases sexual and emotional attractiveness. Sweat, pulse, and accelerated breathing stimulate relationships. Physical activity also releases serotonin and endorphins that trigger happiness. In this case, happiness is shared happiness.
Theressa DiDonato, a professor of psychology at Loyola University in Maryland, USA, explains: “Today’s couples engage in non-gestural communication that forms emotional involvement while exercising.”
6 Outdoor Exercises for Couples
Below, we suggest outdoor workouts for couples that can benefit from all these benefits.
Acroyoga
Acroyoga is a training that can only be performed as a couple. It consists of highly coordinated movements.
Acroyoga poses are designed to be performed by couples. This physical activity requires coordination, strength, and balance, so it is only appropriate for those who have already experienced yoga or similar physical activity. If you have the ability to perform, this can be a very special experience.
Acroyoga requires both partners to work towards complementing each other as both partners need each other to complete the asana, thus resulting in more stretching. These exercises also strengthen relationships as they stimulate physical contact, teamwork, and mutual trust.
If you are a beginner in yoga, doing acro yoga with a partner can be a good way to start. The two will discover new experiences together.
Jogging
Simple activities like jogging are fun exercises you can do with your partner. You can go to the park or jog near the house, and jogging together helps to motivate each other and builds trust. And this way you avoid excuses to avoid exercising.
Keep a comfortable pace so that the two of you can have more fun. You’ll find that it’s a lot more fun than jogging alone. Another great thing is that you can take a break and talk about your experiences and give each other advice.
And setting goals make your workouts much more challenging. Struggling for a common goal, such as preparing for a marathon or triathlon, strengthens cooperation and mutual encouragement.
Hiking
It is very rewarding to discover new paths together.
Hiking along natural paths is a unique and enriching experience. This is the perfect aerobic workout to get some fresh air and get in touch with nature to rejuvenate.
Of course, there are also many hiking trails near the city. You can also set the difficulty level according to your own condition or desired level.
Bring proper clothes and sneakers, apply sunscreen, and let the adventure begin! If you plan to stay longer, bring water and fruit or a light meal.
Hiking different routes can help you escape the monotony and discover new places with your partner.
one-on-one basketball
If you want a fun competition, you can play one-on-one basketball. To enjoy this exercise, all you need to do is pack a basketball and go to the park.
Basketball is a great cardiovascular exercise and works all your muscles, especially your legs, back, and arms. For even more fun, you can play 2:2, 3:3, and even 5:5 basketball with other couples.
Kayaking
Activities such as canoeing and kayaking require a lot of coordination and are ideal for strengthening relationships.
Kayaking is definitely one of the best exercises for couples. If you live near a lake or beach, you may be able to find a place to rent a kayak. So rent a kayak for the two of you and paddle.
This sport requires coordination and teamwork. Also, kayaking is a great exercise for your arms, chest, back, and abs, and it gets your legs moving even when you’re seated.
Tennis
Tennis is a great sport if you two are on the same level, and it can even spark some competition. But it can be a bit disappointing if the two aren’t on the same level. In this case, you can find another couple and play doubles. Everyone is sure to have a great time while working out together!
