Breakdancing, also known as breaking, is surging in popularity, becoming a recognized sport and attracting a wave of new enthusiasts. If you’re looking to get into this dynamic dance form, understanding the foundational Break Dance Moves is crucial for long-term progress and enjoyment. Just like any discipline, mastering the basics first is key before attempting the complex and awe-inspiring moves seen in professional performances.
Originating in the 1970s as a vibrant expression within hip-hop culture in New York City, breakdancing has since exploded onto the global stage. Today, you’ll find thriving breaking scenes in cities like London, Paris, and Tokyo. If you’re wondering where to begin your own breaking adventure, this guide will walk you through the essential break dance moves to build a solid foundation.
This guide introduces the top 10 break dance moves every beginner should learn to master their foundation and start their breaking journey effectively.
Top 10 Break Dance Moves You Should Know
Watching professional breakers execute incredible spins and flips can be initially overwhelming for newcomers. However, learning how to break dance is best approached systematically, starting with fundamental categories of movement. These core categories form the building blocks of all break dance moves:
- Top Rock: Upright dancing, setting the rhythm and style.
- Down Rock: Floorwork, encompassing footwork variations and backrocks, crucial for agility and flow.
- Freezes: Stylized poses, showcasing balance and control.
- Power Moves: Dynamic spins and tricks, the visually striking elements of breaking that come later in your development.
Patience and consistent practice are essential. Building confidence with basic break dance moves will pave the way for steady progress. While the spectacular moves anticipated at events like the Paris 2024 Olympic Games are inspiring, remember to prioritize proper technique and avoid rushing into advanced techniques prematurely to prevent injuries.
So, What Are the Top Moves to Get Started With?
1. Top Rock
Before you can dream of joining the ranks of the elite breakers, mastering the top rock is essential. Top rock serves as the opening statement in breakdancing, the initial rhythmic movement before transitioning into more complex routines.
Essentially, top rock involves comfortably shifting your weight between your feet while standing. It’s about finding your groove and rhythm. Begin by stepping from one foot to the other, adding arm movements to enhance the flow. As you become more comfortable, incorporate variations like shuffles, side steps, and even subtle kicks. Maintaining a relaxed and flexible upper body is key to fluid and stylish top rock break dance moves.
2. 6-Step
The 6-step is a foundational down rock move, critical for developing footwork coordination and rhythm on the floor. It’s a cyclical pattern that introduces you to the flow of break dance moves on the ground.
Start in a squat position. Initiate the move by extending your right foot forward while simultaneously moving your left foot to the side. Next, bring your right foot back to its original position as your left foot moves behind and to the right, completing a circular motion. This sequence forms the basic 6-step.
Practicing the 6-step at home is highly recommended to build body control and familiarize yourself with the rhythm and flow of breaking. Focus on smooth transitions between steps and maintaining a consistent tempo.
Choosing the right footwear is also important for executing break dance moves like the 6-step effectively. Shoes designed for breaking provide the necessary grip and flexibility for floorwork.
To truly master the 6-step, consider using video tutorials to visually guide you through the movements and refine your technique.
3. Baby Freeze
The baby freeze is a fundamental freeze move, perfect for beginners to learn balance and stability. It’s an accessible way to incorporate static poses into your repertoire of break dance moves.
Begin on your hands and knees. Lift one leg and carefully place the knee of that leg against the back of your elbow on the same side of your body. Use your opposite hand to provide balance and support as you adjust your weight.
The key to achieving perfect form in the baby freeze is to focus on core engagement and maintaining a stable center of gravity. Practice holding the position and gradually increase your hold time as you get stronger.
4. Back Spin
Before attempting advanced spinning moves like headspins, the back spin is the ideal starting point. It teaches you the fundamentals of rotational momentum without requiring excessive strength or complex techniques. The back spin is a classic and impactful beginner break dance move.
Start by sitting on the floor. Quickly transition to lying on your back, tucking your knees towards your chest. Then, powerfully kick your legs outwards while simultaneously pushing off the floor with your arms. This coordinated action generates the momentum needed to initiate the spin. The rotation primarily occurs on your upper back. Initially, focus on controlling the spin rather than aiming for numerous rotations. The goal is to gradually increase the duration and control of your back spin.
5. Crab Freeze
Adding another freeze to your growing collection of break dance moves, the crab freeze builds on balance and body control. It’s a unique and visually interesting pose that’s relatively accessible to beginners.
Begin by sitting on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Place your hands behind you, ensuring your fingers are pointing away from your body. Now, lift your hips off the ground while slightly leaning forward. Distribute your weight evenly between your hands and feet to create a table-like position with your body. This is the crab freeze.
6. Coffee Grinder
The coffee grinder, sometimes called the helicopter, is a basic yet dynamic break dance move that serves as a crucial stepping stone to more advanced techniques. Mastering this move is essential before attempting windmills, flares, or handstand variations.
Start in a squat position with one hand placed firmly on the ground to support your weight. Initiate the move by swinging your legs in a circular motion around your supporting hand. The key is to shift your weight primarily onto the hand that remains on the floor, allowing your legs to rotate freely. Practice maintaining a smooth and continuous circular motion with your legs.
7. Turtle Freeze
Another fundamental freeze, the turtle freeze, is a great addition to your warmup routine or as a transition within your break dance moves sequence. It emphasizes balance and core strength.
Starting from a squat position, place both hands on the floor in front of you. Lean forward, transferring your weight onto your forearms. Your body weight should be primarily supported by your forearms and hands. Simultaneously, lift your legs off the ground and tuck them towards your chest. In the turtle freeze, your legs are typically tucked and compact.
8. Headstand
Feeling more confident in your balance and strength? It’s time to introduce a slightly more advanced move: the headstand. The headstand is a staple in breakdancing and a visually impressive break dance move to master.
However, it’s crucial to practice headstands safely, especially as neck injuries can occur if not performed correctly. It’s recommended to practice with a spotter and on a soft surface, avoiding hard surfaces like concrete initially.
Begin in a kneeling position with your hands placed on the ground shoulder-width apart. Position your head on the floor in front of your hands, forming a triangle shape with your head and hands for optimal balance. Engage your core muscles and slowly lift your legs off the ground, extending them upwards. Maintain core engagement to control your balance and hold the headstand for as long as you can comfortably manage.
9. Comboing
Comboing isn’t a single move, but rather the art of linking multiple break dance moves together smoothly. This is where you begin to develop flow and create your own unique sequences. Comboing is the essence of dynamic breakdancing and essential for leveling up your skills.
Practice transitioning seamlessly between the moves you’ve learned – top rocks, 6-steps, freezes, and spins. Focus on maintaining rhythm, momentum, and fluidity as you move from one move to the next. Experiment with different combinations to discover your personal style and flow.
10. Windmill
The windmill is an iconic and visually striking break dance move that every breaker aspires to learn. While it may seem complex initially, breaking it down into steps makes it achievable.
Start from the same position as the backspin – sitting on the floor. While advanced breakers may initiate windmills from a standing position, beginners should start from a seated position to minimize the risk of injury. Roll onto your shoulders while simultaneously swinging your legs in a circular motion overhead. Use your arms to push off the ground and maintain momentum as you rotate. Continue rotating, aiming to move from your shoulders to your upper back in a continuous, controlled manner. The key to a successful windmill is maintaining a consistent leg swing and controlled rotation without stopping.
Conclusion
These top 10 break dance moves provide a solid starting point for your breakdancing journey. Remember to be patient with yourself, practice consistently, and prioritize proper form over speed or complexity, especially in the beginning. Building a strong foundation in these fundamental moves is the key to becoming a proficient and confident breaker.
For further guidance and expert instruction, consider exploring resources like the B-Boy & B-Girl Dojo for structured learning and coaching to accelerate your progress.
