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.

Instructions:
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:

Music

A large, smooth floor

Breakdancing videos

Protective gear

Preparation

Step1

Play some hip-hop music you can breakdance to.

Step2

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

Step3

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

Step4

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

Learn the Top-Rock (or Up-Rock)

Step1

Master this basic breakdancing move first.

Step2

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

Step3

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.

Step4

Bring your left foot forward halfway while you swing your right foot back halfway in an arc—this is the “transition.”

Step5

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

Step6

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

Step7

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

Step8

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

Learn Other Moves and Steps

Step1

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

Step2

Rent or buy breakdancing videos.

Step3

Practice with friends or while watching breakdancing movies.

Step4

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

Tips & Warnings

• Record yourself or have someone record you as you breakdance so you can review it later to spot things moves you need to work on.

By eHow Arts & Entertainment Editor