Arts >> Dance >> Break Dancing

How to Perform Basic Breakdance Moves

Ever thought it might be cool to impress your friends with your hip breakdancing moves? Here's some good news: you can learn how to breakdance simply by learning a few basic moves and following a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Music
  • A large, smooth floor
  • Breakdancing videos
  • Protective gear
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Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • 1

      Play some hip-hop music you can breakdance to.

    • 2

      Make sure you have a large, smooth floor to practice on. If you want to go old school, lay down some flattened cardboard boxes.

    • 3

      Wear comfortable clothes as well as protection, such as sneakers, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist bands, a head band and gloves.

    • 4

      Do a few stretches before you start to warm up your muscles and prevent injury.

    Learn the Top-Rock (or Up-Rock)

    • 5

      Master this basic breakdancing move first.

    • 6

      Start on your left foot, with your right foot back and your arms held backward.

    • 7

      Jump forward on your right foot while at the same time sending your left foot back. Don't drag your feet; only let them touch the ground for steps.

    • 8

      Bring your left foot forward halfway while you swing your right foot back halfway in an arc-this is the "transition."

    • 9

      Swing your right foot in to replace the left as the left goes back; pump backward with your arms.

    • 10

      Kick forward with your left and kick back with your right, swinging your arms back for balance, and landing your weight on your left.

    • 11

      Step forward with your right halfway, swinging your left back in an arc.

    • 12

      Move from left to right, and you're ready to go again!

    Learn Other Moves and Steps

    • 13

      Watch other "breakers" (people who breakdance) and see how they move.

    • 14

      Rent or buy breakdancing videos.

    • 15

      Practice with friends or while watching breakdancing movies.

    • 16

      Take a breakdance class or workshop if such a thing exists in your community.

Break Dancing

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