What happens when you mix getting fit with looking for your forever fit? WH investigates the latest trend in dating: working out together
Once upon a time, working out involved walking into a gym, doing your thing, then leaving to go about the rest of your day. The only person you’d talk to might be the person at the front desk or the guy hogging the one rowing machine.
That storyline has long since ended. For many, fitness has evolved into an opportunity to meet cool and likeminded people – new friends, sure, but increasingly, romantic partners. According to a Foreo global survey, combined with other data, 70 percent of participants said that their main reason for heading to the gym was to find love and 18 percent even admitted to having sex at the gym. In 2017, one in four people who struck up a flirty convo at the gym ended up in a relationship with that sweaty stranger, another survey found. And did you know, in the past three years alone, at least half a dozen dating apps have sprung up that match users based on mutual workout pursuits? (Look out for: Sweatt, Datefit, and Weights n’ Dates.)
Of course, sheer convenience plays a role in the trend. It makes sense that as people amp up the time they spend being active (gotta get those five days of 30 minutes’ exercise done!), they may have less time for standard socialising, dating included. Combining the two worlds could be, to put it unromantically, a way to optimise your jam-packed schedule. But there’s also a much bigger current at work: the ability to hand-pick a partner who values healthy living – and enjoys the same sweat escape you do.
IT’S BIOLOGICAL, REALLY
This story is from the June 2019 edition of Women's Health South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2019 edition of Women's Health South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Should We All Be More GenZ
Those born between 1997 and 2012 now make up more than a fifth of the workforce - and while they might have strong opinions on your jeans, it's not the only thing they care about. From healthy boundaries to prioritising mental wellbeing, WH makes the case for growing down...
OPTIMISE YOUR ENERGY
Experts say we're suffering from a \"fatigue epidemic\" - but that it's fixable. Deep-dive into the research behind this phenomenon and learn to service your source for the long haul.
The Real Art Of Getting Closure
The days of waiting for someone else to give you answers are officially over. Understanding isn't handed to you. It's work you - yes, you! - put in.
May I Recommend Being A Serial Dater And Not Having Sex?
If you like snacks or bad TV, you're already on your way.
Force Of Habit
From over-worrying to over-shopping, your impulses might hold you back more than you think. Cycle-breaking insights, ahead.
Unleash Your Inner Child
Sometimes, finding happiness in the present means healing the past. Experts share simple ways to show kindness to your former self.
Water Works
Proper hydration is the key to healthier, more manageable hair - and it doesn't entail a dramatic overhaul. It starts with a little knowledge and ends with a few moisturising micro-adjustments to your routine.
The Active Girl's Sun & Sweat Guide
Exercising outdoors requires a little extra effort when it comes to protection. But it's worth it. You can level up your SPF game and still enjoy open-air workouts.
Tatjana Schoenmaker
Trailblazer Tatjana Schoenmaker reflects on her remarkable career, what drives her and how she hopes to make the most of her future needs.
Charted Waters
Take a deep dive into the sport that'll shape, tone and help you find mindfulness. Your guide to swimming, right here.