Most people know that playing tennis is a great way to stay in shape, but did you know that it can be a great relationship booster as well? For many couples, the word “love” is not only a part of the tennis scoring system, but it’s also a by-product of playing this fun sport together! Spending time on the tennis court as a couple is an engaging and invigorating way to connect with your significant other, and as numerous studies have shown, there are several relationship benefits that can be experienced as well. Below are five ways that playing tennis together can improve your relationship.
1. It encourages communication and friendly banter.
It’s hard not to engage in a little playful “trash talk” when you’re on the court with your significant other, especially if you have a competitive streak in your personality. This fun and lighthearted banter is very much a type of flirting, which is always a welcome form of communication in a vibrant relationship.
2. It will make both of you healthier.
Health problems are an often overlooked yet very vital issue that can put significant strain on a relationship. In some extreme (and very sad) cases, some couples have even ended their relationship due to the excessive and prolonged stress associated with substantial health problems. By playing tennis together, you are both taking an important step towards improving your physical health, and since you’re doing it together, you will form a stronger bond based on a common goal.
3. It improves romantic attraction.
Anytime you exercise, your body releases hormones known as endorphins, which are often called “feel good hormones” due to the euphoric effect they produce in your body. Psychologists say that this “natural high” imitates the physical signs and symptoms of romantic attraction, causing the sparks to fly when you’re out there on the court. In light of these facts, it’s safe to say that tennis can be quite the natural aphrodisiac!
4. It creates a platform for mutual encouragement.
If your partner hits a nice burner up the sideline, you can commend him/her on nailing a good shot. If you pull off a nice volley, your partner can give you “props” for your efforts. Playing tennis together gives both of you the opportunity to encourage one another with affirming words, which is an important part of maintaining healthy interaction in a relationship.
5. It’s a cheap date!
With all of the other obligations that the average couple juggles any given week – e.g., work, child care, doing the laundry, etc. – it can be difficult to find time to do things together as a couple. Playing tennis is a great way to “kill two birds with one stone” by spending quality time enjoying an inexpensive activity together, and it gives you an opportunity to burn some extra calories to boot!
There’s a lot of truth to the statement that “The couple that plays together, stays together.” Whether you’re looking to rekindle a relationship that’s been on the rocks or you’re simply looking for a fun activity to do as a couple, you should definitely give playing tennis together a try. As the above points clearly suggest, it will be a move that you won’t regret.
