Hip hop is a form of dancing that takes bits and pieces from other dance styles and combines them in a whole new way. While there are specific terms for for the steps, there are no specific terms for the positions, unlike ballet. Perhaps the best way to understand what that means is to observe either a hip hop class or attend a hip hop event. Because hip hop allows for self-expression, hip hop is a dance form that is visually exciting and ever-changing.
The steps are constantly developing and changing, incorporating elements of funk, popping, locking, break dancing, classical jazz, ballet and any other dance form that appeals to the dancer and fits the choreography.
Hip hop has no classic definition, but there are some basic steps in hip hop that serve as a spring-board to which other steps are added. Some of these are the Kick Ball Change, the Crip Walk, the Salute and more. These basic steps help teach you how to move with the beat, where to put the emphasis of the dance move and body position.
Hip hop competitions are great ways to learn steps to hip hop dancing. By both participating and observing, you will be able to not only strut your stuff but learn new moves to add to your repertoire. Since hip hop dancing is all about self expression and new moves, always evolving as a hip hop dancer will help you to learn even more.
Competition is in some ways a misnomer as many groups evolve and collaborate their style based on steps observed at a competition. In fact, the intricate dance form of hip hop is a deeply collaborative art. The combination of evolving music, methods of playing music and alternate movements are often best displayed at hip hop competitions.