Date Ideas For Active Couples On Valentine's Day

If the idea of a dinner date followed by a movie makes you yawn, it's time to spice things up this Valentine's Day and do something completely different. But with cold weather across nearly the entire country, it's not so easy to just head outside, go on a hike, or even take a bike ride together. That said, it is still possible to have a more active and romantic date than dinner and a movie. In fact, you can make your date a gift to each other by planning something fun that you know he or she will enjoy.

Go for a romantic run

While the weather outside might be somewhat frightful, conjure up the idea of warmer weather by giving a gift you know your honey has been wanting, such as membership to a running club. Additionally, as a fun date idea, many cities across the country, even if they're located in the colder climate, will have a race or two on the weekend to partake in. Get your blood pumping with a race together, and the two of you can encourage each other to cross the finish line.

Glide along an ice rink

For a colder weather activity, bundle up and lace up those skates. For warmer locations find an indoor rink with free skating times. Going ice skating can also be a bonding activity, especially if you're holding hands. If one of you is a better skater than the other, it can also be a chance to teach a new skill -- or show off some of your moves. This active date has the added benefit of working both your glutes and your legs.

Try indoor rock climbing

Alternatively, trim down those clothes and break a sweat by rock climbing together. Rock climbing, by its very nature, can help you build self-confidence, but there's a reason why it's also a great team-building activity. To get to the top, you'll need the help of your partner, and in turn this date can help you build trust and confidence in your relationship -- while you're also building muscle.

Take a Class Together

What do you and your significant other want to learn? Or what hobbies do you share? That can give you a good start when picking out a class to take together. If you want to learn more recipes to make at home, check out a cooking class. Wine aficionados? Take part in a wine tasting.  Or if you really want to get moving, enroll in a dancing class and learn how to waltz, salsa, and more. Another great option is to take a partner yoga class, in which you'll learn how to move together in new ways.

Enjoy a couple's massage

After an active day out, a great way to relax is to organize a couple's massage. Like your day out and about, a massage will release endorphins, but it can also be therapeutic. It will relax your muscles and help take away any pain or stress you may be feeling. Pair this massage with a glass of wine and some chocolate, and you have the makings of the perfect end to your Valentine's Day date.

No matter what active Valentine's Day you plan, remember what matters most: who you're spending the date with.

Elizabeth SanFilippo is a freelance writer, who enjoys trying new foods from all over the world. But her favorite city for culinary treats will always be Chicago. When not writing about food, she's writing about a variety of topics for numerous websites and blogs, and working part-time at a culinary vacation company based in the Windy City. Some of her work can be found at Examiner.com.