An interesting byproduct of this is that partner dancing appears to be a genuine meritocracy. It's not about race, religion, culture, profession, social standing, or even sexual persuasion. Just walk into any club, the Copa, the Continental, or a ballroom dance studio - and see who you'd want to dance with. Yes, being attractive doesn't hurt, but it's quickly discounted after a dance or two. Not surprisingly, men and women initially come to partner dancing with differing agendas.
Women often begin dancing because it's a skill they've been meaning to acquire.
After making some headway and gaining some dance skills, however, both find far more benefits than they anticipated. There is the sheer thrill of movement - being able to hear music and move rhythmically to it. Frequently, there is the discovery and appreciation of different types of music. Music that was heard before and ignored, now seems appealing, even exciting. Not to mention, there is the benefit of exercise, made especially valuable by being able to obtain it incidentally and without sweating.