Dating's great for the heart

The butterflies in your stomach you experience when preparing for a hot date could actually improve your physical health and your pay packet, it is claimed today.

A new study of single people reveals that dating not only inspires them to exercise more but makes them adopt a more positive approach to life:

One in five said that dating meant they felt better equipped to deal with day-to-day problems.

Half believed their self-confidence had improved.

Almost a quarter said they felt healthier - and another quarter began a fitness regime in their enthusiasm to impress dates.

The poll shows dating also has an impact on careers.

One in five of the 500 singles interviewed said dating had prompted them to reconsider their career path or current job. And 16 per cent decided to redecorate their homes so that their living space more accurately reflected their personality, according to the research carried out by online dating service Udate.co.uk

Relationship coach Salma Shah said: "Getting ready for a date means focusing on ourselves, and having some 'me' time is a great confidence boost.

"The anticipation of a date will also produce a 'cocktail' of 'happy hormones', endorphins."