Dating is tricky enough without having to spend hours deciding what you’re actually going to do.

Not to mention, the classic date night ideas tend to lean towards the more indulgent: takeaways, a blow out meal or a film and snack night - not that there’s anything wrong with that, of course! But, if you’re looking to ditch the more traditional date night ideas for something a little more active to help you keep on top of your fitness goals, we’ve got you covered.

Better yet, our healthy date night ideas are budget friendly too! Research by dating app Bumble found that 42% of single people now prefer modest date locations to avoid stress about the bill, while 34% would suggest a free date activity. 

So, whether you’re in a long-term relationship, going on a first date, celebrating an anniversary or simply want to find something new to do together, we’ve rounded up a list of healthy date night ideas to spark the romance.

GET OUTSIDE

Nothing says romance like autumn. Who doesn’t love crunchy leaves, amber landscapes and big woolly scarves to keep you cosy?

Nature truly is a magical thing and it can even help boost your mood, which is why spending time outdoors together is a great way to bring you closer together. 

And the best part is, the options are endless! You could set yourself the challenge of going for a hike, opt for a bike ride through the park or even go for a leisurely stroll - all help to burn calories and can be very romantic.

COOK A NUTRITIOUS MEAL

Okay, so how many ‘date nights’ have you spent ordering a takeaway, sitting on the sofa, watching Netflix etc etc? It’s time to switch it up a bit. Well, what if the date was the dinner-making process? That way you can actually control what goes into the meal and worry a little less about the overwhelming number of calories. 

You could take it in turns to cook for one another or both get involved to create a dinner to remember! No one’s saying you have to attempt a beef bourguignon situation, but why not start with this healthy, yet delicious recipe?

CRISPY SESAME PORK

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tbsp reduced-salt soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 45g panko bread crumbs
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 egg
• 4 thin boneless pork chops
• 3 tbsp rapeseed oil
• 150g salad greens
• 130g baby tomatoes, halved
• 130g shredded carrot

METHOD:

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce and brown sugar. Heat to a simmer on medium. Simmer for two minutes, then cool.
2. On a plate, combine the panko crumbs and sesame seeds. In a shallow bowl, beat the egg. Individually, dip the pork chops in the egg, then coat in the panko mixture.
3. In a large frying pan, heat the oil over a medium-high heat until hot. Fry the chops for three minutes either side or until cooked. Drain on paper towels and cut into cubes.
4. In a large bowl, toss salad greens with the tomatoes, carrots and pork, along with the sauce reduction.

TRY A YOGA OR DANCE CLASS

We appreciate this won’t be for everyone, but learning a new style of dance together is not only a fun way to get a workout in, but it can also help you become more synchronised as a couple - both physically and mentally.

Meanwhile, although yoga is traditionally an individual practice, practising with another person can have its own unique benefits.

Known as couples yoga or partner yoga, this practice allows two people to relate to one another through assisted poses. From stretching your levels of trust to strengthening your communication, couples yoga can have a positive effect on your relationship that extends far beyond the physical.

If you don’t fancy attending a class, you can always try some yoga from the comfort of your own home. Discover more here.

GET OUT OF TOWN

A couple’s retreat could be the perfect weekend of health and luxury. Numerous retreats across the country promote a healthy lifestyle while providing a weekend of relation. Activities range from plant-based cookery workshops, guided nature walks and yoga and meditation classes. 

If your budget won’t quite stretch to a weekend away, no problem! Catch a train to a different town or city for the day and spend time exploring its beautiful architecture, parks or healthy eateries! It’s certainly a good way to get your steps in without feeling like you’re exercising. 

GET PAMPERED

Your wellbeing is as much mental as it is physical, which is why it’s so important that you take time to look after your mind, as well as your body.

Not every day has to be about going to the gym and not all date nights have to include splashing out at a sophisticated restaurant. In fact, some of the best date night ideas are something as simple as getting pampered.

If you’re asking us, there’s no better way to unwind than a spa evening and many spas have plenty of special offers that couples can take full advantage of. That being said, for a more affordable healthy date night idea, you can create your own spa evening at home. We’re talking face masks, aromatherapy candles, relaxing music - the LOT!

With these active date ideas, date night no longer has to interfere with your fitness goals (or your budget for that matter!) Not to mention, these excellent suggestions are guaranteed to impress your date - we’ll let you take the credit…