10 Easy BREAK DANCE FOOTWORKS for Beginners

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May 21, 2024 In Break Dance

Welcome to the world of break dance, where rhythm meets athleticism and every movement tells a story. If you’re new to this dynamic dance form, you’re in the right place. This blog will guide you through ten easy footwork techniques that are perfect for beginners. Whether you want to impress at a dance battle or just add some flair to your moves, mastering these footworks will set you on the right path.

00:00 Intro

Breaking, or b-boying as it’s also known, originated in the streets and has since evolved into a globally recognized art form. It’s not just about the moves; it’s about the attitude, the style, and the culture. Today, I’ll walk you through ten foundational footworks that every aspiring breaker should know.

0:39 Zulu Spin

The Zulu Spin is not just a dance move; it’s a statement in the breakdancing community. Often used as a transitional move or a flare addition to a set, the Zulu Spin combines agility, balance, and rhythm in a visually captivating way.

Execution of the Zulu Spin:

  • Starting Position: Begin in a squatting position with your hands placed on the ground for support. Your legs should be bent at the knees with feet flat on the floor.
  • Initiate the Spin: Push off gently from your feet to start a spinning motion. The key is to use your hands as pivots while the body rotates around them.
  • Leg Movement: As you begin to spin, extend one leg outward and keep the other bent slightly. The extended leg should sweep the ground lightly. This leg will create the momentum necessary for the spin. The beauty of the Zulu Spin lies in the sweeping motion, which should be smooth and controlled.
  • Maintain Balance: Keep your core tight and maintain balance by focusing your weight on your palms. Your hands are crucial for controlling the speed and duration of the spin.
  • Ending the Spin: Slow down the spin gradually by pulling in your extended leg and lowering your body back into the starting squat position. Gracefully exiting the spin is as important as entering it.

Tips for Perfecting the Zulu Spin:

  • Practice on Different Surfaces: Begin practicing on a smooth surface to reduce friction. As you get better, try different surfaces to adapt to various conditions.
  • Work on Flexibility and Core Strength: Improving your flexibility and core strength will significantly enhance your control and execution of the Zulu Spin.
  • Record and Review: Record your practice sessions to review your form and technique. Pay attention to the fluidity and smoothness of your leg movements and the stability of your spins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Over Rotation: Avoid spinning too quickly as it can cause loss of control. The beauty of the Zulu Spin lies in its controlled and aesthetic sweep, not just in speed.
  • Neglecting Hand Position: Keep your hands firmly planted and evenly balanced. Uneven hand placement can disrupt your spin and balance.
  • Ignoring Core Engagement: A strong core is essential for a smooth spin. Neglecting core engagement can result in a wobbly and unstable spin.

Incorporating Zulu Spin into Routines:

The Zulu Spin can be a showstopper when performed flawlessly. It’s versatile enough to be incorporated at the beginning, middle, or end of routines. When combined with other moves such as the Helicopter or Six Step, it adds a dynamic layer to your performance.

1:18 Monkey Swing

The Monkey Swing is a vibrant and energetic footwork move in break dance that mimics the playful, swinging motion of a monkey. It’s a fantastic way to inject some fun and dynamic expression into your dance routine, offering both visual appeal and a physical challenge.

Execution of the Monkey Swing:

  • Starting Position: Begin in a crouched position with your hands placed on the ground slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Your knees should be bent, ready to swing.
  • Swing Initiation: Use your arms to lift and support your body as you swing one leg under your body and across to the opposite side, allowing the other leg to follow in a smooth, continuous motion.
  • Leg Movement: As you swing your legs, keep them slightly bent and controlled. The movement should be fluid and rhythmic, resembling the way a monkey swings through tree branches. The key is to maintain a rhythm and ensure each swing is executed with consistent speed and distance.
  • Maintaining Momentum: Use your hands and arms not just for support but also to help propel your body. Push lightly off the ground each time you swing your legs to maintain momentum and add a slight hop to your movement, which makes the swing more dynamic.
  • Completing the Move: After several swings, you can transition into other moves, or you can swing your legs back to the center and rise smoothly to a standing or another engaging position to continue your routine.

Tips for Perfecting the Monkey Swing:

  • Flexibility and Strength: Enhancing your flexibility and upper body strength will greatly improve your ability to perform the Monkey Swing effectively. Flexibility helps with wider leg swings, while strength aids in maintaining control and support.
  • Coordination and Rhythm: This move requires good coordination as your hands and legs must work synchronously. Practice the timing to keep your swings smooth and rhythmic.
  • Practice with Variation: Once you’re comfortable with the basic swing, try varying the speed or adding twists and turns to make your Monkey Swing unique and more challenging.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Losing Rhythm: The Monkey Swing relies heavily on rhythm. Inconsistent pacing or timing can disrupt the flow of your performance. Focus on maintaining a steady tempo throughout the move.
  • Insufficient Arm Support: Failing to use your arms effectively can lead to a lack of lift and momentum, making the swings appear sluggish and low. Ensure your arms are strong and active throughout the move.
  • Too Much Tension: While control is necessary, too much tension in your legs and body can hinder the fluidity of the swings. Keep your movements relaxed yet controlled.

Incorporating Monkey Swing into Routines:

The Monkey Swing is not only a great standalone move but also serves as an excellent transition element in routines. It can seamlessly link more static moves with dynamic sequences, adding an element of playfulness and unpredictability to your performance.

1:39 Babylove

The Babylove is a charming and visually appealing footwork technique in breakdancing that demonstrates balance and control. It’s a move that combines aesthetics with skill, making it a favorite among dancers who want to showcase their fluidity and grace.

Execution of the Babylove:

  • Starting Position: Begin by sitting on the ground with your legs extended in front of you. Place your hands behind your body for support.
  • Lifting into Position: Use your hands to lift your hips off the ground, transferring your weight onto your palms and heels. This raised position is the starting point for the swinging motion.
  • Swinging Legs: With your body elevated, start swinging your legs from side to side. The movement should be smooth and controlled. As you swing your legs to one side, twist your hips slightly to enhance the visual effect and maintain momentum.
  • Footwork and Hand Coordination: As you become more comfortable with the leg swing, you can start lifting your hands alternately with each swing. This not only adds to the challenge but also increases the aesthetic appeal of the move. Each hand lift should be synchronized with the opposite leg’s swing to maintain balance and rhythm.
  • Ending the Move: To finish, slow down the swinging motion and gently lower your body back to the sitting position. You can transition into another move or use this moment to strike a pose that complements the flow of your routine.

Tips for Perfecting the Babylove:

  • Core Strength: Strong core muscles are crucial for this move as they help you maintain balance and control throughout the swing. Incorporate core strengthening exercises into your training routine.
  • Flexibility: Increased flexibility, especially in the hips and lower back, will allow for a wider range of motion and smoother swings. Stretch regularly to improve your flexibility.
  • Practice Slowly: Start practicing the Babylove at a slow pace to focus on form and technique. As you gain confidence and control, gradually increase your speed and fluidity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Rushed Movements: Rushing through the move can lead to a lack of control and an unsteady performance. Focus on executing each swing with precision and grace.
  • Neglecting Hand Lifts: Initially, it can be tempting to keep your hands on the ground for stability. However, practicing hand lifts is essential for advancing in this move. Start with brief lifts and gradually increase the duration as you improve.
  • Poor Posture: Maintaining a good posture is key to executing the Babylove effectively. Keep your back straight and your head up to enhance your balance and overall appearance.

Incorporating Babylove into Routines:

The Babylove is versatile and can be used as a transitional move or as a highlight within a routine. It pairs well with smooth, flowing moves, providing a contrast to more dynamic, explosive techniques. Its elegant nature makes it suitable for moments in a routine where you want to slow down the pace and draw the audience’s attention.

2:21 1 Step / Helicopter / Coffee Grinder

The 1 Step, also known as the Helicopter or Coffee Grinder, is a quintessential breakdancing move known for its circular floor sweeping motion. This move is a staple in the breakdancing community due to its visual appeal and the foundational skills it develops in new dancers.

Execution of the 1 Step / Helicopter / Coffee Grinder:

  • Starting Position: Begin in a squat position with one hand placed on the floor for balance. Your weight should be on your feet and the supporting hand.
  • Leg Movement: Extend one leg straight out in front of you. This will be your sweeping leg. The other leg should be bent slightly to provide support and stability.
  • Initiating the Sweep: Using the straight leg, start a sweeping motion in a wide circular path around your body. The movement should be smooth and controlled, keeping the sweeping leg as low to the ground as possible without touching it.
  • Rotation and Balance: As your leg sweeps around, rotate your body by shifting your weight between your supporting leg and hand. This rotation should be synchronized with the leg sweep to maintain a continuous, fluid motion.
  • Completing the Cycle: Bring the sweeping leg back to its starting position in front of you while preparing to initiate another sweep. The movement can be repeated several times to build momentum and rhythm.

Tips for Perfecting the 1 Step / Helicopter / Coffee Grinder:

  • Maintain a Low Profile: Keeping your sweeping leg low to the ground increases the challenge and visual appeal of the move. It also helps in maintaining balance and control throughout the rotation.
  • Build Core and Arm Strength: Strengthening your core and arms will significantly improve your ability to perform this move effectively. These muscles are essential for supporting your body weight and aiding in rotation.
  • Smooth Transitions: Practice transitioning into and out of the Helicopter smoothly to enhance the overall flow of your dance routine. Effective transitions can elevate the performance and showcase your mastery of the move.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • High Leg Lifts: Lifting the sweeping leg too high off the ground can disrupt the flow and aesthetic of the move. Aim to keep the leg parallel to the ground.
  • Inconsistent Speed: Varying the speed of the sweep can make the move look unsteady. Practice maintaining a consistent speed throughout the rotation.
  • Neglecting the Supporting Leg: The role of the supporting leg is just as important as the sweeping leg. Keep the supporting leg stable and slightly bent to aid in balance and weight distribution.

Incorporating 1 Step / Helicopter / Coffee Grinder into Routines:

The 1 Step / Helicopter / Coffee Grinder is not only a dynamic solo move but also an excellent way to transition between different floor moves in a routine. Its circular nature allows for creative combinations and sequences, making it a versatile addition to any performance.

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2:47 Back Shuffle / Criss Cross

The Back Shuffle, also known as the Criss Cross, is a dynamic and visually striking footwork technique in breakdancing that showcases agility and rhythm. This move involves a rapid interchange of foot positions, which creates a crisscrossing pattern, hence the name. It’s a popular move in battles and performances because of its energetic vibe and its ability to seamlessly integrate with other moves.

Execution of the Back Shuffle / Criss Cross:

  • Starting Position: Begin in a standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees slightly to stay agile and ready to move quickly.
  • Foot Movement: Quickly jump and cross one foot in front of the other, landing with your feet crossed. The back foot should move forward, and the front foot should move back.
  • Shuffling Sequence: After landing, immediately jump again to uncross your feet, returning to the starting position. This should be a quick and fluid motion.
  • Repetition and Rhythm: Repeat this criss-crossing action several times. The key to this move is the rapid interchange of the feet, which should be executed with precise timing and rhythm.
  • Adding Arm Movements: To enhance the visual appeal of the Back Shuffle, incorporate synchronized arm movements. Arms can swing in opposition to the legs or perform a more complex choreography to complement the footwork.

Tips for Perfecting the Back Shuffle / Criss Cross:

  • Focus on Foot Speed: The essence of the Back Shuffle lies in the speed and smoothness of the foot exchanges. Practice at a slower pace initially to build muscle memory, then gradually increase your speed as you become more confident.
  • Stay Light on Your Feet: Use the balls of your feet to bounce lightly and stay agile. This will help you maintain speed and make it easier to perform quick foot swaps.
  • Practice with a Metronome: Using a metronome can help you maintain a consistent rhythm and pace, which is crucial for executing this move cleanly and effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Heavy Footing: Landing too heavily can slow you down and make the move look less graceful. Aim to keep your landings light and your movements sharp.
  • Losing Rhythm: The Criss Cross requires consistent timing. Practicing without paying attention to the rhythm can lead to a disjointed performance. Always be mindful of the beat.
  • Ignoring Upper Body: While the focus is on the legs, neglecting the upper body can make your performance look unbalanced. Use your arms and torso to add flair and maintain balance.

Incorporating Back Shuffle / Criss Cross into Routines:

This move is versatile and can be used as both a transition and a standalone feature in routines. It works exceptionally well in sequences that involve rapid, rhythmic movements and can be a great way to ramp up the energy in a performance. Combining the Back Shuffle with spins, jumps, or drops can create a dynamic and engaging set that captivates the audience.

3:03 Jumpover Jumpback

The Jumpover Jumpback is a dynamic and impactful move in breakdancing that involves a sequence of quick, explosive jumps. This move not only tests your agility and coordination but also adds a high-energy burst to your performance, making it perfect for catching the audience’s attention during battles or showcases.

Execution of the Jumpover Jumpback:

  • Starting Position: Begin in a standing position with your legs slightly apart and knees bent, ready to spring into action.
  • The Jumpover: Perform a quick jump and simultaneously bring one foot over the other, almost as if you’re stepping over an imaginary object. Land on the foot that was raised, with the other foot now behind.
  • The Jumpback: Immediately follow the Jumpover with a Jumpback by reversing the motion. Leap again, this time bringing the back foot over the front foot to return to your original standing position.
  • Maintaining Momentum: The key to the Jumpover Jumpback is the fluidity and speed of the transitions. There should be no pauses between the jumps. Each motion flows into the next, creating a continuous rhythmic pattern.
  • Arm Movements: To help maintain balance and add style, use your arms effectively. Swing them in a natural, opposite motion to your legs. This not only helps with momentum but also enhances the visual appeal of the move.

Tips for Perfecting the Jumpover Jumpback:

  • Practice Timing and Rhythm: Like many breakdancing moves, timing is crucial. Practice with a metronome or to the beat of music to ensure your jumps are on point and rhythmically sound.
  • Build Leg Strength: This move requires strong legs for the explosive jumps. Incorporate leg strengthening exercises such as squats and lunges into your training regimen.
  • Start Slow: Begin by practicing the movements slowly to ensure proper form and technique. Once you feel comfortable, gradually increase the speed of your jumps.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inconsistent Landing: Make sure each landing is stable and controlled. Inconsistent landings can disrupt the flow and rhythm of the move and might lead to injury.
  • Rushing Through the Move: While speed is important, rushing through without control can make the move look sloppy. Focus on clean, sharp movements.
  • Neglecting Upper Body Control: Your arms play a crucial role in maintaining balance and enhancing the aesthetics of the move. Keep your upper body engaged and use your arms to counterbalance your leg movements.

Incorporating Jumpover Jumpback into Routines:

The Jumpover Jumpback is versatile and can be seamlessly integrated into various parts of a routine. It works particularly well as a transition move between floor routines and more vertical, standing movements. Due to its energetic nature, it can also serve as a powerful climax in a performance sequence, especially when combined with other high-impact moves.

3:17 Peter Pan

The Peter Pan is a whimsical and stylish move in breakdancing that incorporates a blend of balance, agility, and creativity. Named for its light and airy feel, reminiscent of the fictional character’s ability to fly, this move adds a playful yet elegant touch to any dance routine.

Execution of the Peter Pan:

  • Starting Position: Begin in a low squat position with your feet flat on the ground and your arms extended out to help maintain balance.
  • Leg Movement: Lift one leg and extend it straight out to the side, parallel to the ground. The other leg bends at the knee and stays grounded, acting as the pivot point.
  • Body Positioning: As you extend your leg, lean your torso slightly in the opposite direction to counterbalance the weight of your leg. This not only helps in maintaining balance but also enhances the aesthetic of the move.
  • Arm Positioning: Your arms play a crucial role in this move. Extend them gracefully, as if you are trying to mimic flight. The arm on the same side as the extended leg can be pointed outwards, while the other arm can be swept back or up, adding to the overall fluidity and form.
  • Hold and Return: Hold the pose briefly to emphasize the extension and line of the body. Then, gracefully return to your starting position or transition into another move. The smoothness of the entry and exit adds to the effectiveness of the Peter Pan.
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Tips for Perfecting the Peter Pan:

  • Work on Flexibility: Flexibility, especially in the legs and hips, is crucial for executing a clean Peter Pan. Stretch regularly to improve your range of motion.
  • Practice Balance: This move requires good balance. Practice the leg extension and body lean slowly at first, focusing on maintaining stability without wobbling.
  • Controlled Movements: Every motion in the Peter Pan should be deliberate and controlled. Practice the extensions and returns slowly to ensure precision and grace.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Rushing the Move: Rushing through the Peter Pan can disrupt the graceful appearance it’s known for. Take your time to execute each part of the move smoothly.
  • Neglecting Posture: Poor posture can undermine the visual impact of the Peter Pan. Keep your back straight and your head up to enhance the elegance of the pose.
  • Imbalanced Weight Distribution: Failing to distribute your weight properly can lead to instability. Make sure you understand how to counterbalance your weight effectively when extending your leg and arms.

Incorporating Peter Pan into Routines:

The Peter Pan is versatile and can be used in various parts of a routine to add a moment of visual flair. It fits well in sequences that emphasize style and form over speed. This move can serve as a striking pose within a series of more dynamic moves or as a transition into slower, more controlled segments.

3:55 Hook

The Hook is a foundational breakdancing move characterized by its sharp, angular leg movements. This move is not only visually striking but also an essential part of many break dance combinations, serving as a transition or a standalone power move.

Execution of the Hook:

  • Starting Position: Begin in a low squat position with your hands on the floor for balance.
  • Leg Movement: Lift one leg and swing it around to the side, then hook it in front of your supporting leg at the knee. The movement should be quick and precise, resembling a hooking action.
  • Balance and Control: Use your hands to stabilize your body as you execute the hook. Your weight should shift slightly to accommodate the movement without losing balance.
  • Completing the Move: After hooking the leg, you can either hold the position briefly to emphasize the hook or continue into another move such as a spin or a jump to maintain the flow of your routine.

Tips for Perfecting the Hook:

  • Flexibility and Strength: Good hip flexibility and leg strength are crucial for performing a clean hook. Regular stretching and strength training can greatly enhance your performance.
  • Practice Smooth Transitions: The Hook is often used in combination with other moves. Practice transitioning into and out of the Hook smoothly to make your routines more fluid.

4:21 CC

The CC, short for “Crazy Commandos,” involves forming large, sweeping “C” shapes with your legs while maintaining a grounded upper body. This move is all about leg control and floor coverage, making it a spectacular display of agility and technique.

Execution of the CC:

  • Starting Position: Start on your hands and feet, with your body elevated slightly above the ground in a crab-like stance.
  • Leg Movement: Extend one leg out to the side and sweep it around in a large “C” shape, then switch to the other leg and repeat the motion.
  • Rhythm and Flow: The CC should be performed with a rhythmic, flowing motion, keeping the movements large and exaggerated for maximum visual impact.

Tips for Perfecting the CC:

  • Leg Flexibility and Strength: The wider and more controlled your leg sweeps, the more impressive the CC will look. Enhance your flexibility and leg strength to improve your range of motion.
  • Maintain Upper Body Control: While your legs are moving dynamically, your upper body should remain stable and strong. Focus on keeping your arms and torso steady.

4:35 Back Sweeps

Back Sweeps involve a fluid, sweeping motion with the legs that mimics the clearing of the floor. This move is not only crucial for its aesthetic value but also for its ability to transition seamlessly between more complex sequences.

Execution of the Back Sweeps:

  • Starting Position: Begin in a squatting position with your hands placed on the floor for balance.
  • Leg Movement: Sweep one leg behind you, keeping it close to the ground as if trying to sweep the floor with your foot. Then, quickly switch and sweep the other leg in a similar fashion.
  • Fluidity and Speed: Back Sweeps should be executed with a fluid, continuous motion. The speed and smoothness of your sweeps are key to the effectiveness of the move.

Tips for Perfecting the Back Sweeps:

  • Work on Flexibility and Speed: The smoother and faster your sweeps, the more visually appealing they will be. Regular flexibility training and practice will help you speed up your sweeps without sacrificing form.
  • Focus on Footwork: Good footwork is essential for clean Back Sweeps. Pay attention to the placement and movement of your feet to ensure precision and grace.

5:16 Outro

Congratulations! You’ve just taken your first steps into the energetic world of breakdancing. Remember, practice is key. Start slow, focus on the form, and gradually build up your speed and style. Each move is a building block to becoming a proficient breaker, and with patience and practice, you’ll be impressing audiences in no time.

Happy dancing, and see you next time with a new tutorial!

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