Sometimes sitting down over a drink or a meal for a date, although a lovely thing to do, doesn’t really feel inspiring and a more active or energetic date is what is needed. We get to see each other’s competitive sides, our energy levels, our sense of fun, and it’s a great way of breaking the ice. Those nerves we get from dates need to be put to good use! Here are some energetic, active date ideas to keep you on your toes, but most of all to have a great time together.

Choosing active date ideas can make your meet up more of an occasion. Perhaps you live some distance from each other and dating means finding something midway – making a day of it with some sort of activity helps the awkward meandering around somewhere unknown. This way you can try something new, have a bit of fun and enjoy getting to know someone naturally, with a focus on a task or activity to break those awkward silences.

1. Axe throwing

 This energetic activity is a great way of letting off some steam – in a controlled environment! Axe throwing cafes have grown in popularity for good reason. Competitive natures can come out, and it can be very cathartic! Obviously you must abide by all the health and safety rules, but it is definitely an unusual active date idea that will keep you on your toes – and work your arm muscles.

2. Driving

Hitting the road for go-karting offers the opportunity for a competitive and exciting date. An adrenaline rush and a race can be a great talking point afterwards.

If you’re feeling brave, an off roading experience could be just the challenge you need. Together in the same car, working out the trials of bumps and lack of a road – one especially set aside for the purpose. If you can survive that and still get along, you’ll have a great insight into how to manage the bickering of map reading and bad car journeys in the future!

3. Escape Room

Escape rooms have grown in popularity as themed immersive puzzles that require you to work together to figure out how to exit a locked room. This requires you to work as a team and uses both your mind and your body. You have to problem solve together, and do different tasks to hopefully escape in time limit set by the venue!

There’s a great sense of achievement when completing. You’ll be able to use different skill sets – maybe one of you is practical and the other thinks outside of the box – and get to know each other more deeply.

4. Theme Parks

If you love an adrenaline rush, high energy experiences and variety, this active date idea is one for you. There are lots of rides and activities to choose from, and you can spend a day trying everything. Going on big rollercoasters will literally bring you closer – and you can talk about it, laugh about it, scream through it and maybe cling to each other during it!

5. Trampolining

Who says they’re just for kids?! Plenty of fun can be had jumping about – and maybe showing off your somersaults, if you’re feeling daring. it’s a great way to get endorphins, have a laugh together, and not take yourself too seriously.

6. Take to the water

If you like the water, there are a wide range of active date ideas you can do together – punting, paddle boarding, kayaking, rowing, or even wild swimming, to name just a few.

You don’t need to be an expert or come equipped. It’s often possible to hire the equipment and get some helpful advice before you start. If you’re tempted by kayaking or canoeing, you could explore new waterways or local beaches. If you’re feeling less adventurous, maybe hire a pedalo or rowing boat on a local lake.

7. Bowling

Heading to a bowling alley is a classic date – fun, competitive and great for some lighthearted competition. How seriously you take it is up to you. Bowling can be quite a laidback date, with the activity taking second place to conversation, or a more intense battle of skills. Whichever way to go, drinks and nibbles can accompany some good conversation and friendly banter.

8. Ping Pong / table tennis

My very first date with my husband was at a Ping Pong bar. I’m rubbish at any sports, but it was great because it took away any awkwardness and meant we could have a laugh together (especially when the balls went flying everywhere!)

It’s also worth looking out for ping pong tables in local parks as well, rather than in purpose-built bars, where you can also find other activities like chess and gym equipment free to use.

9. Treasure hunt

You can pick a town or a city and find a treasure hunt to walk around and learn about the chosen place. Look out for art, history or culture trails, or make your own as you go. A little bit of history can spark conversation whilst having a walk with purpose.

Of course, you could do gym dates or go for a run together, but if you’re like me, then holding a conversation whilst running is a little tricky! What a better way to start a relationship than with high energy and impact active date ideas – start as you mean to go on and enjoy the ride!

What’s your favourite active date idea?

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