The researchers asked young men to dance in a laboratory to a very basic drum rhythm. Their dances were played back to a group of women who rated them on a scale of one to seven.

The researchers had expected that the movement of arms, legs and hands would be important as they can often convey expressive gestures.

But instead they found that there was a greater focus on the torso, neck and the head. And higher ratings were given for variation and mixing up dance moves. What went down badly though were twitchy and repetitive movements – often called 'dad dancing'.

The researchers also found from blood tests on the dancers that those who had good moves were in better physical condition.

And so, as is the case with courtship rituals with wild animals, dancing ability may well be a way of assessing a suitable mate.

Pallab Ghosh, BBC science correspondent

Vocabulary

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Vocabulary

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rated

evaluated, graded

convey

demonstrate

torso

the main part of the body, not including the head, arms or legs

mixing up

changing

went down badly

was thought bad

twitchy

sudden and nervous

physical condition

bodily health

courtship rituals

actions and ceremonies that attract a male or female to have babies

assessing

judging

suitable mate

good partner to have babies