Have you ever been on a first date with someone who has no passions or interests at all? It can be a nightmare trying to strike up a conversation when that person’s life is all about working and sitting on the couch like a potato. Needless to say, people who have lots of interests and experiences are much more interesting to potential partners and can relate to a wider array of people. So, if you are not already a Renaissance man (or woman) it may be time to try your hand at new pastimes to whip out some sex appeal.
Here are five activities to make yourself unbelievably sexy for your perfect match in online dating:

1. Cooking

Couple cooking
Both men and women love to eat, and few things can be as alluring as being able to tantalize the taste buds. Seeing (and smelling) a talented chef in action can be like watching an artist painting a masterpiece. If you are a guy, throwing off the traditional gender role stereotypes associated with cooking can show you are worldly, open-minded and secure. Also, given the amount of preparation and planning involved for many dishes, preparing a special meal for your lady can show her how much she means to you.
Ladies, there’s a reason they say that “a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Plus, why not make dessert an interlude to what’s to come later on in the night? Bring out the romance with chocolate covered strawberries or even a fondue.

2. Ballroom Dancing

Dancing is one of the most primal forms of attracting a potential mate. Animals do it and you should do it. Of course, while being able to twerk in a club can be a huge turn on for some, doing something a little more refined, like ballroom dancing, can be a real advantage. It shows talent, dedication, confidence, and best of all it is an excuse to touch each other.
Just picture it: you tell your date about your experience with cutting a rug over dinner. As you walk to your cars you suggest sharing a few dance steps. Next things you know, you have your arms around each other in the parking lot, laughing and having fun, and the rest is easy. To get started, all you have to do is learn a few steps to a simple dance like the Waltz or East Coast Swing. Ladies love having a confident man to take the lead, and he will enjoy getting to wrap his arms around a beautiful and graceful dance partner. Plus, offering to teach strangers on the dance floor is a great way to break the ice!

3. Sports

Singles playing football
Playing a sport is one of the sexiest hobbies you can have. It is good for your health, form and puts you into social settings where you are more likely to meet potential matches, and it gives you something invigorating to talk about while on a date. Participating in a fantasy football league is easy; tossing around the ball or joining a team will exhibit your determination and physical prowess. Women can demonstrate that they’re “down for anything” and adventurous and, for lack of better words, guys can ensure that they look chiseled with their shirts off.
Best of all, the sport you play does not matter that much. Like golf? She will probably equate you with affluence and celebrities like Tiger Woods. Volleyball? Images of male and female beach bodies dance in his or her head. Martial arts? She can feel safe around your macho manliness, and he will probably be turned on by a girl who can crack skulls and still look hot in heels.

4. Music

Singles listening to music
Learning to play an instrument can be a great way to win over a potential date. It shows culture and refinement, dedication, talent, and an ability to connect with the deeper emotional language of music. Of course, choosing the right instrument is key. A guy who can whip out a guitar or tickle the ivories while singing a tune can melt a girl’s heart (and potentially the hearts of anyone else in earshot). And, what could be sexier than writing a song for her? On the other hand, playing a 10 minute long tuba solo is not likely to have quite the same effect. Still, any musical talent can lead to a great conversation, and playing in a group is also a great way to meet people. An appreciation of music also gives you plenty of things to do on a date, like see a concert, visit a music store, or even swap tunes while curled up together on the couch. While many say that there is no such thing as an “easy instrument,” Hilo ukuleles like this are not only affordable and lightweight, but even the most simple tune sounds pleasantly upbeat. Add your singing voice, play a couple of relevant chords, and your partner will be so charmed, no one has to know you’ve just started out.

5. Being a Nerd

Couple playing video games
Okay, I know this one is a little less of a hobby than a lifestyle choice, but you’d be surprised how sexy nerds can be these days. Above all else, it shows that you don’t take yourself too seriously and are willing to buck against conventional ideas of “cool” to pursue what truly interests you.
Comic book and science fiction conventions are more popular than ever, millions are getting into Cosplay, watching anime, and video games often have sales that eclipse blockbuster movies. If you have any doubt, just look at the top 10 grossing movies of all time and you will discover that 8 are the usual nerd favorites: sci-fi, fantasy, or comic book movies. If you have spent any time at a convention (or “con”), you’d know that the days of stinky nerds dressed up like wizards in bathrobes are gone (although you will still see a few). You’ll now see sexy women in tiny costumes and well-built, bare-chested guys in body paint. Yes, it has become cool to be a nerd. Having a Star Wars costume or two, or even a couple of some self-proclaimed geek gadgets like these can create a connection that could lead to an epic relationship.
Of course, this list is far from comprehensive. Any hobby or interest is likely to be useful in spicing up your conversation or thinking of activities to do with your partner. So get out there, pick up a hobby, and you may just find the love of your life in the process.