Routine can be comforting, but it can also get boring! If you find that your relationship has moved way out of the honeymoon phase and well into the comfort zone, it might be time to shake things up a bit by replacing routine with recreation. 

While the occasional date night plays an important role in the life of every couple, it’s not always enough. This is because long-term couples tend to do the same ole things and have the same ole conversations. Novelty—introducing something new—is the key to reinvention! Through new experiences, you will see your significant other as a source of excitement and partner in personal growth, just as you did at the beginning of your romance.

It’s All About Connection

The mind-body-soul connection a couple shares is incomparable to any other type of relationship. Choose activities that will enhance that unique bond.

Emily Grimes, instructor at Fredericksburg’s Strictly Ballroom Dance Studio, says that dancing with your partner is a form of communication. 

“Through each other’s bodies, and through the responsibilities of the partnership, ballroom dancing helps couples learn to communicate better with each other through increased physical sensitivity, mind-body connection and self-awareness,” Grimes explains.

Strictly Ballroom class offerings are wide-ranging. From the Waltz to Fox Trot, Rumba to West Coast Swing, there’s a dance style for all tastes, whether you’re a beginner or a pro. Saturday nights are for social dancing—a fun opportunity to show off the skills you’ve learned in class and enjoy some light refreshments while mingling.

Grimes says that partner dance is a great way to rekindle romance in part due to the release of “feel-good endorphins” and an increase in feelings of trust and confidence in your partner. 

“This new-found connection, confidence and trust is sure to help couples relearn how to communicate in the bedroom!” she says.

Not convinced dancing is the right path for you and your SO? Not to worry! Fredericksburg has a multitude of options to explore.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

You already know you’re a great team together. Why not show the rest of the world what the two of you are made of?

Joining a sports league is a fun way to connect with your partner, and it gives you something different to do/talk about. You might even meet other likeminded couples and make some new friends.

Fredericksburg Field House hosts a variety of adult leagues, including soccer, volleyball and flag football.

Does a league sound like a little bit too much work? Then join a bowling league! You can still shine as teammates but in a more relaxed atmosphere. Check out AMF Bowling Alley for available leagues and social clubs. If you don’t see one that fits you and your SO’s schedule, start your own couple’s-only league. 

Get Physical

Like the idea of getting physical with your partner but not feeling particularly sporty? There are plenty of ways to be active together outside of a league or sport. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Outdoorsy types should check out Virginia Outdoor Center paddleboarding lessons, kayaking and tubing.

Group fitness classes can help couples simultaneously work on their #fitnessgoals and their #couplegoals.

• Zumba or TRX: Downtown Bodyworks

• Yoga or Row: Sweat FXBG

• CrossFit: CrossFit Fredericksburg

• Mixed Martial Arts: DCB MMA & Athletic Training

Feel the Rush

One of the most famous studies on the psychology of attraction unveiled the link between the body’s reaction to scary situations and sexual attraction. In other words, thrill seeking might make you and your partner irresistible to each other!

Pack some heat at FFM INC. You and your SO can explore various firearm training courses, using whatever type of firearm strikes your fancy. Many couples find target shooting and firearm training to be an exciting and sexy hobby to pursue together.

Not into guns? Be each other’s “ride or die” with motorcycle riding lessons through Coleman Powersports. 

Whatever you choose, you’re sure to emerge a winner by brining out your fun, but loving, competitive sides.