New research shows one in four would prefer a healthy pursuit with their love interest
Fitness-focused Brits are more likely to share a first date on a run than to a bar, according to new figures. One in four of those quizzed in a survey of 2,000 Amazon workers would prefer to exercise on a first date – twice the number who would go for a drink.
One in 10 said they would rather get their hearts racing on a run or visit the gym, while 9% said they would choose an activity such as bowling. And the figures are even higher amongst Gen Z, with 22% saying they would prefer to get to know a love interest while exercising. One in 10 18-24 year olds said a run would be their perfect date after meeting someone, compared to 7% who would go to a pub or bar.
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Amongst 25-34 year olds, 19% would prefer to hit it off on an active date, while 8% would opt for a boozy night out. And 17% of 35-44 year olds said they would choose bonding while exercising over the 9% who favoured the pub.
The survey is part of Amazon’s Chatterbox series that shines a light on the personalities and opinions of its employees.
Stephen Hathaway, 26, from Bristol, runs four times a week, and said he would love to take a date for a run. He said: “The hardest thing about dating is the anxiety about how you’re going to break the ice – and on a run you don’t need to worry about that.
“You might be sweaty and fighting for breath at times, but that is going to break down the tension a lot quicker than if you were in a bar on your best behaviour, trying to make small talk – which can feel robotic and tense.
“Plus, you get a high after about half an hour of running which makes you feel naturally more confident.
“So if you go for a drink afterwards, conversation is going to flow.
“I think it’s important to show your real self on a date, and not take yourself too seriously. If you go in knowing full well you’re not going to look your best, then you’ll break down those walls between you much more quickly.”
But Farida Rizk, 21, from Nottingham, is not convinced.
She said: “If I went on a jogging date, I’d be sweating, panting and fully focussed on not tripping over. Not exactly the first impression I’m aiming for.
“A first date should be a nice meal or a couple of drinks somewhere where you can actually talk and get to know the person. You want to come across as charming – not gasping for air.
“Sure, gym couples are having their moment – it’s definitely a trend. But if we’re being real, most people would secretly rather be on the sofa with a takeaway. That’s the kind of love language I can get behind.
“One of my friends actually met her boyfriend through a running club, and I was genuinely baffled. How do you even flirt mid-run? I’d be too focused on not dying to make conversation.
“Honestly, if I’m lacing up my runners for a first date, I must really like you.”
Dating expert Millie Shields said: “People are moving away from the swipe-and-chat culture when it comes to dating, and gravitating toward more meaningful, in-person connections.
“That’s why running dates are on the rise – they allow for real conversations, shared interests, and actual chemistry.”
With a workforce of around 75,000 across the UK, Amazon is perfectly placed to explore the topics that matter most.
The survey ties into Amazon’s latest video which sees workers tackle the ultimate question: would anyone still go for a run if they couldn’t show off about it? Watch here.