How to Breakdance | Ninja Walk

Breakdancing, an electrifying component of hip-hop culture, mesmerizes audiences with its dynamic moves and artistic athleticism. Among the plethora of moves a dancer can master, the Ninja Walk stands out for its complexity and visual appeal. Originating from the inventive realms of breakdancing pioneers, this move blends agility, strength, and grace. This guide will take you step-by-step through mastering the Ninja Walk, inspired by insights from B-boy Storm of the Battle Squad from Berlin, Germany.

Introduction to the Ninja Walk

The Ninja Walk isn’t just a dance move; it’s a narrative expressed through your body, echoing the stealth and precision of a ninja. The essence of this move lies in its ability to seamlessly transition from one dynamic pose to another, creating a fluid storyline that captivates the viewer.

Step 1: The Ninja Freeze

Every great journey begins with a solid foundation, and for the Ninja Walk, it starts with the Ninja Freeze. This initial stance is critical as it sets the tone for the fluidity and sharpness of the subsequent movements.

Positioning:

Foot Placement: Stand on one foot, let’s say your left. The right foot tucks in, resting just above the left knee, creating a figure-four with your legs.
Body Alignment: Ensure your body is a straight line from head to toe. Avoid bending at the hips or letting your posture sag. Imagine being pulled upward from your head by an invisible string.

Step 2: The Back Swipe

Transitioning from the static Ninja Freeze to a dynamic movement, the Back Swipe introduces motion, preparing your body for the intricate steps that follow.

Execution:

Hip Movement: From the Ninja Freeze, engage your hips to lift slightly off the ground.
Leg Motion: Propel yourself using a small hop, rotating your hips to swing your legs sideways and slightly back. Tap the ground first with your right foot, followed by your left, maintaining rhythm and balance.

Step 3: The Knee Hook

After the burst of the Back Swipe, the Knee Hook adds an element of complexity and grace, showcasing your control and flexibility.

Technique:

From Swipe to Hook: As you complete your Back Swipe, transition into a seated position with one leg extended (the previously airborne leg) and the other bent inward, hooking around the ankle of the extended leg.
Control and Balance: Focus on making this move smooth. The key is to control your descent and maintain balance as you shift your weight.

Step 4: The Circular Motion

This part of the Ninja Walk mimics the motion of riding a bicycle backward, adding a whimsical yet challenging twist to the sequence.

Movement:

Leg Cycling: From the hooked position, begin to cycle your legs in the air as if pedaling a bike backward. This not only tests your balance and coordination but also adds an artistic flair to the performance.

Step 5: The Grand Finale

Conclude your Ninja Walk with a return to the Ninja Freeze, creating a full circle that showcases your mastery of the move.

Completion:

Return to Freeze: As you finish your backward pedal, smoothly transition back into the Ninja Freeze position. This not only demonstrates your control but also encapsulates the entire move elegantly.

Tips for Mastery

Practice Consistently: The Ninja Walk requires consistent practice to perfect the fluid transitions and maintain balance.
Record Yourself: Watching recordings of your practice sessions can help you identify areas for improvement.
Strength and Flexibility Training: Enhance your core strength and flexibility to improve your performance and prevent injuries.

Conclusion

The Ninja Walk is more than just a breakdancing move; it’s a testament to the dancer’s skill, creativity, and dedication to the art. By mastering this complex sequence, you not only elevate your dancing repertoire but also pay homage to the innovative spirit of breakdancing. Whether you’re performing in a battle or showcasing your skills in a solo performance, the Ninja correct execution of the Ninja Walk is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.