Style Spotlight: Hip Hop

Have you ever seen the amazing and hype moves of a break dancer, also known as a b-boy or b-girl, and were so impressed? We’ve all seen the dance movies with the epic battle sections, the swift footwork and the pumped up crowd. Guess what? Whether it be impressing your dance teacher and maybe snagging that solo or just having fun at the school dance, you could learn to do it too! Now, don’t get too ahead of yourself, the world of break dancing is not easy (even though they are really great at making it seem so) and could take years to feel confident and rock those advanced moves. Be prepared to learn a lot about the history of hip hop and how you could start to condition and practice some breaking foundations to get you going.

Learn About the History:

Breakdancing originated around the early 70s in the streets of the Bronx, New York. The street style has rapidly grown into a worldwide known and celebrated style of dance. Check out articles similar to this one https://www.danceclass.com/breakdancing-music.html. Look up facts about Rock Steady Crew and other original battle crews. You can even look up some documentaries like this one—The Freshest Kids: A History of the B-Boy

Listen to the Music:

Being familiar with hip hop music of all kinds is a great start too! Finding rhythm and groove can’t be taught just in class. Knowing what sounds are out there for you to move to is incredibly necessary. Make playlists and share them with your friends! Search for songs that make you want to get up and dance. Some of the best break dancers out there will tell you, past technique, it’s about feeling the music and knowing how to rock to any beat that comes your way! Click Here for a cool, classic playlist to get you started!

Condition Your Body:

Strength in your muscles and control of your core is crucial for moving fast and having your body be able attempt certain skills and execute what your soul and brain wants it to do. B-boys/b-girls use almost every part of their body to help illustrate the sound and bring more attention to different muscles and ranges of motion than you’ll work on in ballet. If you are a beginner, be sure to check with your dance teachers and ask them how you can improve. Don’t push your body too fast too soon. Take your time and make sure you are growing strength supervised and safely!

Practice, Practice, Practice:

If you want to learn how to own certain moves, grooves and tricks, you must practice them consistently. You won’t become any expert overnight. So start practicing beginner movement like top rocks and baby freezes, plus incorporating some necessary footwork! The amount of tutorials available online are growing. Make sure you are learning from reputable, experienced and credible dancers/teachers. Check out this tutorial from one of our Spotlight judges Bonita Saldaña!