Dating has changed a lot over the years.

There was a time when people dated for love.

Then came dating apps.

Now Gen Z has introduced something called "practice dating," and honestly, it sounds a little like spring training for your love life.

The idea is surprisingly simple: Go on dates with people who aren't necessarily your type.

Wait... what?

Yep. Instead of spending weeks searching for "The One" based on six photos, three emojis, and a profile that says "I love adventures," some singles are intentionally going out with people they wouldn't normally choose.

Why?

Because the goal isn't necessarily finding a soulmate.

It's getting comfortable with dating itself.

According to dating expert Serena Kerrigan, photos and profiles don't tell the whole story. Someone who doesn't seem like a match online could completely surprise you in person.

And let's be honest, most of us have probably swiped left on someone who turned out to be pretty cool.

The theory behind practice dating is that when you stop treating every first date like a potential wedding proposal, the pressure disappears.

Instead of wondering, "Can I see myself growing old with this person?"

You're just asking, "Can we survive a 45-minute conversation without checking our phones?"

That's a much lower bar.

Supporters say practice dating can help people build confidence, improve social skills, become better conversationalists, and learn what they actually want in a relationship.

Think of it as the dating equivalent of taking batting practice before the big game.

Of course, there's one important rule:

Don't use people.

If you're going on dates just to sharpen your skills, the other person deserves honesty and respect too.

Still, there's something refreshing about the idea.

Not every dinner needs to turn into a Hallmark movie.

Not every coffee date needs to end with wedding bells.

Sometimes it's okay to simply meet somebody new, have a conversation, and learn something about yourself along the way.

Besides, if you've ever sat through an awkward first date, congratulations.

You've already been practice dating for years.