Discover 6 ways to succeed as a professional breaker

Welcome to an exploration of six essential strategies for achieving success as a professional breaker. In the dynamic world of breaking, mastering the art form goes beyond mere physical prowess; it requires a holistic approach that encompasses various aspects of skill, dedication, and mindset. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting on your journey, these six principles will serve as guiding lights to help you navigate the path toward success in the competitive realm of breaking. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of what it takes to excel as a professional breaker and unlock your full potential in this vibrant and electrifying dance culture.

Pass on the culture

To effectively transmit the art form and cultural heritage, breakers must immerse themselves in the lifestyle and acquire knowledge about the origins, development, and evolution of the dance. One conventional method involves seeking guidance from trailblazers like B-Boys Kwikstep and Jiggz, who remain active in the community. Renowned DJ Skeme Richards emphasizes the paramount importance of breakers comprehending the dance’s historical context and fostering a deep cultural affinity with the music. “It’s essential to delve into the societal landscape of America and the UK during the ’60s and ’70s to grasp the essence of the scene and the struggles faced by Black communities,” he asserts. “By delving into the lives of these pioneers, one can gain deeper insight into the music and the ethos of the culture.”

Who are Kwikstep and Jiggz? Kwikstep and Jiggz stand as pillars in the B-Boy community, having profoundly influenced New York’s breaking scene. Their journey spans from the vibrant ambiance of clubs like the Roxy and The Palladium to the raw energy of underground cyphers. As witnesses to the awe-inspiring evolution of breaking, they’ve been instrumental in inspiring the next generation of breakers.
Now, as anticipation mounts for the Red Bull BC One World Final 2022 in New York City, we had the opportunity to catch up with Kwikstep and Jiggz. In our conversation, they delve into the foundational elements that have shaped the breaking scene and discuss the pivotal roles played by clubs, cyphers, competitions, and crews. Their insights shed light on the profound impact of these elements in nurturing talent, fostering community, and propelling breaking forward into an exciting future.

Make a creative living

Creating a livelihood through breaking demands a unique perspective on the dance. Logistx, who clinched the title of Red Bull BC One Champion in 2021, has ventured into various avenues of creativity. He has graced the silver screen, appeared in commercials, and showcased his talent through solo theater performances on TV shows and at renowned international festivals like Breaking Convention in London.

According to Logistx, breaking is often misunderstood because its essence surpasses mere physical movements. “Breaking transcends the surface; it delves into the depths of human expression,” he explains. “When you immerse yourself in breaking, you’re not just executing moves or displaying prowess; you’re narrating your personal story in a multidimensional way. Breaking is akin to weaving a tale through movement.”

Become a full-time competitor

Becoming a full-time competitive breaker requires years of dedication, financial stability, and numerous sacrifices. For B-Girl Luma, pursuing this path meant devoting three months of her year to working in America to gather funds. These funds would sustain her while she dedicated the remaining nine months to breaking in Colombia. Despite the immense sacrifice, this strategy enabled her to intensify her training and accumulate resources for international travel. “A single journey abroad can transform your entire life,” reflects Luma.

Her firsthand experiences highlight the unpredictable nature of life. In 2019, while competing in Brazil, she learned about the online Red Bull BC One E-Battle from fellow breakers Pelezinho and Neguin. Taking a chance, she entered and emerged victorious, earning a coveted spot in the Last Chance Cypher at the Red Bull BC One World Final. This opportunity was monumental as Colombia lacked a qualification cypher, making it Luma’s sole route to the World Final. Her triumph opened doors to additional competitive invitations and prospects, including a wildcard entry to the Red Bull BC One World Final 2021.

This pivotal moment reshaped Luma’s career trajectory. Her sacrifices began to yield significant returns as she steadily built a thriving career as a full-time breaker.

Develop your own style

Mastering the craft of crafting a distinctive style that garners recognition and admiration is no easy feat. Renowned b-boys like Roxrite from the United States and Amir from Kazakhstan stand as shining examples of breakers who have successfully carved out their own paths in the world of breaking.

Reflecting on his journey to develop an unconventional style, Amir emphasizes the importance of setting high standards, maintaining a degree of self-critique, and fostering a genuine passion for the creative process inherent in breaking. He advocates for a wholehearted dedication to the art form itself, rather than fixating solely on competition victories. “Breaking is an art form, and I aspire for it to exude the elegance of a masterpiece,” he affirms.

Similarly, for Roxrite, cultivating his distinctive style involved a continuous process of evolution while staying grounded in his roots. This approach has proven fruitful for the American breaker, whose illustrious career spanning over two decades has yielded more than 100 championship titles.

Their journeys underscore the essence of persistence, self-reflection, and a deep-seated love for the art of breaking in the pursuit of developing a style that is uniquely their own.

Have self-belief

B-Boy Wild Child and B-Girl Isis exemplify the power of self-belief in the breaking scene. Despite facing familial opposition, Wild Child persisted in his pursuit, fueled by his unwavering confidence in himself. With support from his mother, he utilized prize money to attend a significant event in Taiwan, where his performances gained widespread attention. Subsequently, he secured victories at the Red Bull BC One Cypher India in 2021 and earned a wildcard for the 2022 Red Bull BC One World Final, enabling him to compete on a global scale with the full support of his family.

Similarly, B-Girl Isis defied the limited opportunities in her native Ecuador by relocating to America, driven by her steadfast belief in her dreams. Through her dedication and talent, she achieved notable successes, including winning prestigious competitions like the Red Bull BC One Cypher USA. Her accomplishments have earned her invitations to compete worldwide, culminating in a wildcard entry at the Red Bull BC One World Final in 2022. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of believing in one’s aspirations, affirming that faith can manifest one’s desires into reality.

Change your life for the better

Seeking avenues for personal growth and positive transformation is a common quest for many individuals. For B-Girl Anti from Italy and 671 from China, the world of breaking has been instrumental in catalyzing profound changes in their lives.

Before venturing into breaking, Anti had already tasted success as a competitive cheerleader and rhythmic gymnast. However, her triumph at the Red Bull BC One Cypher Italy in 2021 marked a turning point. The flood of international battle invitations not only solidified her reputation as a b-girl but also facilitated a deeper exploration of her own identity. “Breaking has been a journey of self-discovery for me,” she reflects. “Previously reserved, I now find joy in engaging with new people and expressing myself more freely. It has broadened my perspectives and completely transformed my life.”

Similarly, for B-Girl 671, breaking has been a catalyst for personal growth and development. Prior to embracing breaking, she struggled with shyness and found it challenging to connect with unfamiliar individuals. However, through her journey in breaking, she has undergone a remarkable transformation. “Breaking has empowered me to step out of my shell,” she shares. “It has instilled in me newfound confidence, provided clarity on how to lead a fulfilling life, and enabled me to forge meaningful connections with others.”

For both Anti and 671, breaking has not only served as a platform for honing their dance skills but has also acted as a vehicle for self-discovery, confidence-building, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships, ultimately leading to profound personal growth and positive life changes.

Summary

In this comprehensive guide, we explore six fundamental strategies tailored for those aspiring to succeed as professional breakers. Each strategy is meticulously crafted to address the multifaceted challenges and nuances inherent in the world of breaking. From honing a distinctive style that sets you apart from the crowd to cultivating unwavering self-belief in the face of obstacles, these insights provide invaluable tools to navigate the competitive landscape of breaking. Additionally, we delve into the significance of establishing cultural connections, understanding the rich history and evolution of the dance form, and embracing the transformative power of dedication and perseverance. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner seeking to elevate your game or a newcomer eager to carve your niche in the breaking community, this guide serves as a roadmap to unlock your full potential and thrive as a professional breaker.