To Get The Most Out Of Speed Dating Follow These Tips Introduced in the 1990s, speed dating has become increasingly popular both through the United States and in other countries. Although it was first invented to help young Jewish singles meet other singles, this ritual still serves that purpose today. Clubs in major cities regularly host speed dating nights. An equal number of men and women are invited to a given location, and while women stay at their two person tables, the men have five to ten minutes to speak to each woman.