"What in the world is a 'run date', Elyse?".

"Only my favorite kind," I replied.

I was chatting with a friend during an easy jog, and as what frequently happens in the world of a twenty-something single female, the topic of dating came up. For me, running is my life. I work in run, I run for fun, and I train competitively. So, by default, I meet a lot of runners. Hence, the run date is no stress, a lot of fun, and keeps me right in my element.

No matter how running fits into your life, I find the run date to be a perfect and practical first date. What could be better than a few miles to chat and get to know one another? I guarantee that during the run there will be far less awkward pauses than meeting up for drinks or dinner. Additionally, you will both be in running clothes, so there will never be a question of "how dressed up should I be?" And, if anything, you will have gotten your workout in.

Neither person has to be a hardcore runner, but even for a casual jogger nothing can beat a run date. The most important thing is to keep it simple. At the end of the run, grab protein shakes, coffee, or brunch. Save your excruciating post-run ab routine for the second date!

Here are some guidelines for the run date:

1. Route: Plan out a route in advance. Decide before how many miles you are going to cover. I like to let the guy to pick a route, but I will always have a back-up in mind, in case we need it.

2. Pace: This isn’t a race. It is a casual run and conversation. Run a pace that is comfortable for both of you. You should run next to each other. One person should not be a few steps ahead of the other. If this is happening, not a good run date! Save the racing and speed work for serious training sessions. Resist the temptation to compare times and race stats.

3. Attire: Yes, it is a date, but you still need to be able to run comfortably. Avoid a lot of jewelry, unless you normally run with it (some of us can’t run without our pearls), and wear functional running clothes that you are comfortable being active in. And don’t wear perfume or cologne…sweat, running, and designer scents don’t mix.

4. Have fun: You are doing what you love, running, and you are sharing that with someone else, who probably loves running too. Keep the pressure off and enjoy being outside and each other’s company.

See if there is a running group in your community to meet fellow runners and let us know about the roadside romance!