The Evolution of Breaking: From Scarcity to Mainstream, and the Power of Social Connection12/18/2024 
Breaking, or breakdancing, has come a long way since its inception in the early days of hip-hop culture. Once an underground movement, nurtured in the streets and shared through word of mouth, breaking has transformed into an internationally recognized art form with a growing professional scene, competitive arenas, and institutional recognition, including its inclusion in the 2024 Olympics. This blog explores the phases of breaking, from childhood curiosity to professional pursuits, and how the evolution of the dance reflects a larger shift in how culture, community, and access to information shape individual experiences.
Breaking in its rawest form: thriving on urban streets, driven by creativity, grit, and the spirit of community.
FROM MY EXPERIENCE
Breaking in the 1990s: A Niche Culture with Limited Access In the 1990s, breaking existed as a niche within hip-hop culture, with access to information and knowledge being limited. Unlike today, where the internet provides a wealth of resources for anyone interested in learning how to breakdance, the 90s were a time of scarcity. To learn about breaking, one had to seek out local communities or rely on media outlets like The Source magazine thesource.com, which occasionally featured articles on breaking / hip-hop culture, or seen in a music video and occasionally on Soul Train www.bet.com/soul-train-awards . In my neighborhood, growing up in the ’90s, the way to get the scoop on breaking was to hang out with the rollerbladers / inline skaters. Personal Experience: Discovering Breaking I first learned about breaking while visiting my friend Chris, also known as Zone, who was a barber. While sitting in his chair, I noticed a cut-out from The Source magazine of someone doing a freeze. When I asked about the image, Chris explained it was breaking and that someone had won a competition by doing flares and catching a hat. I had heard of breaking as a child from my relatives, but I hadn’t seen it in action. Chris shared stories about practicing with B-boys in NYC, and eventually, he showed me a move called a Valdez, one hand back flip, monkey flip or macaco flip which really sparked my interest. From there, I was hooked, constantly seeking out more knowledge and people who could help me learn. The Challenges of Learning Breaking in a Pre-Internet Era During this time, physical communities were essential. Learning how to break was often passed down through direct mentorship and observation. For those interested in Breaking recognized as B-boying or B-girling by some , the journey involved finding and connecting with others who practiced the art, often through word-of-mouth recommendations. The dance was more like a speakeasy—hidden, exclusive, and only accessible to those who were truly passionate about the culture. Personal Experience: Overcoming the Challenges Since not everyone knew how to do the dance, I had to wait around to track down the few individuals who were knowledgeable. I realized that many people who skated also had connections to breaking, so I started visiting local skate parks and asking skaters about it. This process eventually led me to long-term friendships with people who helped me piece together the movements and the culture. It was a slow journey, but the relationships I built during that time were invaluable.
The Rise of Breaking: From Niche to Mainstream
Fast forward to today, and breaking is no longer confined to underground spaces. The internet has made breaking, along with B-boy and B-girl culture, more accessible than ever. Platforms like YouTube www.youtube.com , Instagram www.instagram.com, and TikTok www.tiktok.com/explore have allowed dancers to share their moves, tutorials, and battles with a global audience. What was once a niche culture has now grown into a mainstream movement, with breaking competitions and professional opportunities expanding across the world.
This shift reflects a broader trend in how niches grow. Increased media exposure, cultural shifts in favor of hip-hop, commercial investments from brands, and global accessibility through the internet have all played a role in transforming breaking from a niche art form into an internationally recognized sport. With competitions like
Red Bull BC One www.redbull.com/us-en/event-series/bc-one and breaking’s inclusion in the Olympics https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/sports/breaking, the dance has gained institutional recognition, further solidifying its place in the mainstream. Personal Experience: Building a Community 
Picture Captured by Proud Parent Of Our Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle Program
As I connected with more dancers, I quickly picked up on the idea that each person had a strong focus on different elements of breaking. Some were extremely skilled at top rock, others were great at footwork, and a few mastered raw power moves like spins and flips. I realized that to be a well-rounded breaker, I had to work on all of these elements. One memorable moment was witnessing a B-boy named Jesus practicing head spins with a helmet at a local gym ( Memorial High school, West New York, New Jersey)—something I had never seen before. That day, I also met Manny, who was exceptional at top rock. These encounters shaped my understanding of breaking and inspired me to push my limits.
The Phases of Interest in Breaking: A Lifelong Journey As breaking evolves, so do the phases of interest for those who participate in it. Many B-boys and B-girls start their journey at a young age, where their initial interest is sparked by the music, the rhythm, or the spectacle of the moves. As they grow into their adolescent years, breaking becomes a form of self-expression, competition, and social belonging. The teenage years are often when dancers start to take breaking seriously, honing their craft, seeking out communities, and participating in battles. For those who continue into their young adult years, breaking may become a professional pursuit. Increasingly over the last two decades, many are introduced to breaking in college through campus clubs and organizations, providing a springboard for dancers to develop their style. Whether through teaching, competing, or performing, many dancers explore how they can integrate breaking into their careers. Others may choose to keep breaking as a passionate hobby or side activity while pursuing other life goals. Personal Experience: Turning Passion into a Profession There were three pivotal moments that shifted breaking from being a hobby to something more. The first was after I suffered a BMX injury. I realized I would rather develop strength through breaking, where I controlled the risks, instead of relying on equipment that could cause harm. The second moment was when our crew, NBK, was asked to perform for Coca-Cola, making me realize that people took our skills seriously and were willing to compensate us. The third was when a mentor recognized my dedication and communication skills, offering me a formal opportunity to teach breaking at a studio in lower Manhattan. These moments cemented breaking as a significant part of my life.
The Constant of Social Connection in Breaking and Hip-Hop
Throughout all these phases, one thing remains constant—the social connection that breaking fosters. Breaking isn’t just about dance; it’s about community, culture, and shared experiences. Even in the age of social media, where breaking is more accessible, the sense of belonging within the breaking and hip-hop community continues to be a driving force for many dancers. 
Personal Experience: The Social and Cultural Influence
Breaking has reinforced my self-awareness, which my parents instilled in me from a young age. The theme of “No Te Rindes” (don’t give up) is something I carry with me, not just in dance but in life. Breaking has taught me to constantly strive to be the best version of myself, while also accepting who I am. This mindset of resilience is something that continues to shape how I approach challenges, both in breaking and in life. *The Beats Behind Breaking:
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Image of Nicka (Lithuania), Ami (Japan) and 671 (China) in the medal ceremony for breaking during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at La Concorde. / Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports. Click on Picture to visit Actual article!
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Image of Dany Dann (France), Phil Wizard (Canada) and Victor ( United States of America) by Grace Hollars, USA TODAY Sports. Click on picture to visit Actual article!
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Acknowledgments
Image From: NorthJersey.com
I want to extend a special thank you to
Ricardo Kaulessar, the culture reporter for the USA TODAY Network's Atlantic Region How We Live team, for covering this pivotal moment for the breaking community. Ricardo has been a staff writer for North Jersey Media Group since 2014, covering Essex and Bergen counties, and his work continues to shine a light on the richness of culture and community.
https://www.northjersey.com/staff/2646541001/ricardo-kaulessar/
Ricardo Kaulessar, the culture reporter for the USA TODAY Network's Atlantic Region How We Live team, for covering this pivotal moment for the breaking community. Ricardo has been a staff writer for North Jersey Media Group since 2014, covering Essex and Bergen counties, and his work continues to shine a light on the richness of culture and community.
https://www.northjersey.com/staff/2646541001/ricardo-kaulessar/
Image From: NorthJersey.com
I also want to acknowledge Kevin R. Wexler, an award-winning photojournalist with The Record and NorthJersey.com, for his brilliant visual storytelling. Their combined efforts have brought the story of breaking to life, and I’m deeply grateful for their contributions to the culture.
https://www.northjersey.com/staff/2647146001/kevin-r-wexler/
https://www.northjersey.com/staff/2647146001/kevin-r-wexler/
Video courtesy of:
A Huge Congratulations to All Who Made Breaking Shine at the 2024 Olympics!
To the incredible dancers who brought their passion, skill, and dedication to the global stage, the DJs who kept the vibe alive, the investors and stakeholders who believed in this vision, and the Director of Photography who captured the essence of every moment—your hard work and collaboration have made history. Thank you to everyone involved in making this monumental moment possible, bringing Breaking to the world in all its glory. Your efforts have truly showcased the power, artistry, and unity of our culture. The world is watching, and we couldn’t be prouder!
To the incredible dancers who brought their passion, skill, and dedication to the global stage, the DJs who kept the vibe alive, the investors and stakeholders who believed in this vision, and the Director of Photography who captured the essence of every moment—your hard work and collaboration have made history. Thank you to everyone involved in making this monumental moment possible, bringing Breaking to the world in all its glory. Your efforts have truly showcased the power, artistry, and unity of our culture. The world is watching, and we couldn’t be prouder!
In Unity with the Unseen
Here in our community, every moment we are in, we are a living testament to the unknown forces that allow us to exist, showing respect and solidarity . Each one of us carries a unique story, woven with moments. Our diversity is our strength, creating vibrant threads that come together to form a beautiful tapestry of experiences.
No matter our backgrounds, we all share common values—comprehension and respect. It’s in the greetings exchanged with neighbors, the support we offer one another, and the way we come together to celebrate life’s moments, big and small. When we embrace this, we cultivate a space where hope, compassion, and endless possibilities thrive.
Let’s continue to nurture a place where community is more than just a word—it’s a shared commitment to uplifting one another, showing up for one another and finding joy in the journey together. Because when we rise, we rise together, creating a future filled with light and opportunity.
Here in our community, every moment we are in, we are a living testament to the unknown forces that allow us to exist, showing respect and solidarity . Each one of us carries a unique story, woven with moments. Our diversity is our strength, creating vibrant threads that come together to form a beautiful tapestry of experiences.
No matter our backgrounds, we all share common values—comprehension and respect. It’s in the greetings exchanged with neighbors, the support we offer one another, and the way we come together to celebrate life’s moments, big and small. When we embrace this, we cultivate a space where hope, compassion, and endless possibilities thrive.
Let’s continue to nurture a place where community is more than just a word—it’s a shared commitment to uplifting one another, showing up for one another and finding joy in the journey together. Because when we rise, we rise together, creating a future filled with light and opportunity.
Image courtesy of Pro Breaking Tour (probreakingtour.com). Messaging overlay by Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle.
10/13/2024 & 11/16/2024
Image courtesy of Breaking 2 Business (breaking2business.com/breakingweek.) Messaging overlay by Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle.
the week of October 1st through October 7th-13th, 2024
The Physics Behind Breaking: Insights from Inverse Reporter Elana Spivack on Olympic Debut
7/19/2024
Exploring the Science and Culture of Breaking as it Takes Center Stage at the 2024 Paris Olympics
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Breaking, also known as breakdancing, is about to make its historic debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This milestone not only highlights the athletic prowess of boys and bgirls, breakers but also brings to light the intricate science behind their mesmerizing moves. Recently, I had the pleasure of discussing these elements with Elana Spivack,a reporter for Inverse. Elana's keen interest in the physics of breaking provided a fresh perspective on the art form, merging the worlds of science and street culture. In this blog post, we'll share our conversation, where I explained the mechanics of iconic breaking moves in layman's terms and highlighted the cultural significance that makes breaking a unique and inclusive sport. We'll also touch on breaking's journey to the Olympics and provide a ranking of power moves based on their difficulty. 
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The Initial Connection
Elana reached out to us with a clear goal: to explore the physics behind breaking moves. As a passionate advocate of breaking culture, I was thrilled to connect and share my knowledge.
"I'm Elana, a reporter in New York for science and culture site Inverse. I'm writing about the physics behind different breaking moves, and I'm hoping to connect with a coach to navigate the world of breaking." - Elana Spivack
My response was enthusiastic, recognizing the opportunity to bridge the gap between the physicality of breaking and the scientific principles at play.
"I have extensive experience as a breaker and coach, and I'm passionate about both the culture and the physicality of the art form. I can definitely help you navigate the world of breaking and provide insights on the physics behind different moves." - Henry "Rival" Vijande
The Video Chat and Key Insights
We scheduled a video chat where we could dive deeper into the physics of breaking. Elana was particularly interested in focusing on 3-5 power moves and understanding the physical principles behind each.
During our conversation, we explored iconic power moves such as the Windmill, 1990s, Headspin, Jackhammer, and Airflare. Elana's approach was thorough, as she planned to get a physicist's perspective on these moves.
During our conversation, we explored iconic power moves such as the Windmill, 1990s, Headspin, Jackhammer, and Airflare. Elana's approach was thorough, as she planned to get a physicist's perspective on these moves.
"I then showed 5 of the power moves we talked about to a physicist to get the technical, scientific point of view." - Elana Spivack
A Deeper Dive into Breaking
Elana's curiosity about breaking was infectious. Here are some of her reflections and what she found most interesting:
"I knew I wanted to cover breaking for the Olympics because it's making its debut. I think it's an incredible sport, and I wanted to be one of the first journalists to cover it from a scientific point of view early on." - Elana Spivack
Her interest wasn't just about the moves but also about the culture and community aspect of breaking.
"There's a self-taught element but also a community aspect. It doesn't seem like there's a lot of gatekeeping within breaking -- everyone is willing to help each other and share skills." - Elana Spivack
Ranking the Power Moves
Let Us Know
your thoughts ?
Elana's follow-up question was about ranking the difficulty of the power moves from least to most difficult. Here's a general progression for most bboys and bgirls:
- Windmill: A foundational power move that builds core strength and teaches basic spinning techniques.
- 1990s (Nineties): Requires upper body strength and coordination, utilizing momentum for rotation.
- Headspin: Demands strong neck muscles and balance to withstand the pressure of being upside down.
- Jackhammer: Requires explosive leg strength and control for the rapid up-and-down motion.
- Airflare: An advanced move incorporating windmill mechanics with a full body spin, demanding peak physical conditioning.
Breaking at the Olympics
Breaking is set to make its debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics on August 9th and August 10th. This historic moment will showcase breaking to a global audience, emphasizing both its artistic and athletic aspects. For more details on the schedule and events, you can visit the official Paris 2024 Breaking Schedule.
Clarification
In our discussion, Elana mentioned my involvement in campaigning for breaking to be included in the X Games. To clarify, when I was 17 years old, I discussed with a mentor why breaking was not included in the X Games despite its popularity. Many years later, I, along with a group of other individuals in our community, connected, organized, and worked in tandem to get breaking, also known as breakdancing, included in the 2018 Youth Olympics and eventually the Olympics.
Conclusion
Our conversation was not just about breaking moves but also about the cultural and scientific richness of breaking. Elana's insights and enthusiasm have inspired us to look deeper into the physics behind our art form.
"Understanding the physics helps me appreciate why breaking works the way it does because someone is working within the limits of what's physically possible." - Elana Spivack
We look forward to reading Elana's article and seeing how she weaves the scientific and cultural narratives of breaking. Her exploration into the physics of breaking is a testament to the complexity and beauty of our craft.
Thank you, Elana, for the engaging conversation and for highlighting the incredible intersection of science and art in breaking. You can follow Elana's work on Inverse and visit her personal website here.
Thank you, Elana, for the engaging conversation and for highlighting the incredible intersection of science and art in breaking. You can follow Elana's work on Inverse and visit her personal website here.
(Banner Image from Inverse.com)
Read Now FULL Article on Inverse.com
*For Full Questions and Responses:
What initially drew you to Breaking and the research you’re doing?
"I knew I wanted to cover breaking for the Olympics because it's making its debut. I think it's an incredible sport, and I wanted to be one of the first journalists to cover it from a scientific point of view early on. So many Olympic sports also seem to have a history of elitism, while breaking seems to have a history of being for anyone who can and wants to do it, which I think sets it apart. There's a self-taught element but also a community aspect. It doesn't seem like there's a lot of gatekeeping within breaking -- everyone is willing to help each other and share skills, based on how many tutorials and schools there are.
Physics is also one of my favorite kinds of science because it explains everything we see in the world around us. Even if most people don't go about understanding breaking through physics, I think it's still cool to know why it works the way it does. There are common threads underpinning all the moves -- angular velocity, acceleration, momentum, center of mass, moment of inertia -- that we don't even think about. I think understanding the physics helps me appreciate why breaking works the way it does, because someone is working within the limits of what's physically possible. There's a reason why a body must be positioned a certain way in order to execute a move, there's a scientific answer behind the technique."
What aspects of Breaking do you find most interesting?
"Aside from it being physically incredible, I love the conversation aspect of it. The two dancers seem to be building off each other's energy in a way that's not always true for other sports. In many other Olympic sports, the athletes are competing against each other; it's about taking and maintaining a lead. With breaking, there's an exchange of capabilities with a call and response. There's still a competition going on, and a judgment of capabilities, but the breakers create a dialogue. One breaker makes a statement with their body, and then the other breaker gets a chance to respond. It's not just about one-upping each other, it's also about taking what one person puts down and making your own spin on it.
I also find clothes and style really interesting. Style in breaking is personal, but also functional. The clothes you wear will help reduce friction and gain speed. I love seeing how each b-boy and b-girl expresses their unique style, which is arguably as important as the moves themselves, while using clothes to their physical advantage."
What did you enjoy about our conversation about iconic power moves?
"I enjoyed hearing your self-described purist point of view. For example, I asked you about which surface was best for breaking, and you said that each surface is good in its own way. You seemed to accept that every scenario has its advantages and disadvantages. I also liked hearing about how fluid these power moves are -- they all seem to be able to transition into each other. It highlights the possibilities and many variations within breaking. There's not just one way to do anything.
I also appreciated that you asked if I've ever done a power move; you helped me realize that I have!"
What did you learn through our discussion?
"I learned that there are so many familiar motions that count as breaking. While breaking can look extremely complex and difficult, it all starts with simple moves. A somersault or cartwheel or handstand are all moves that breaking uses, and they're also moves that many of us learn how to do in childhood. You said a kid might say, 'Let me go on my back and push myself and, and spin. And oftentimes, they initially start spinning on their butt first, and then figure out how to transition to their back.' A kid might just be playing around by spinning on their butt at first, but that's the first step to breaking. It made me realize that I know more about breaking than I thought I did, that I have the ingredients to start putting together moves. But then it takes trial and error to see what feels right, and to figure out a proper technique to minimize friction and build momentum. But that all starts with playing around.
I also learned that learning breaking is quite intuitive. You emphasized that learning a move comes from someone's understanding of their own body. It seems like learning is highly individual to everyone.
You also talked about the larger network you are part of in breaking. You talked about how you campaigned for breaking to be at the X Games by connecting and organizing with other passionate breakers. It seems like the breaking community has so much strength in numbers and passion."
"I knew I wanted to cover breaking for the Olympics because it's making its debut. I think it's an incredible sport, and I wanted to be one of the first journalists to cover it from a scientific point of view early on. So many Olympic sports also seem to have a history of elitism, while breaking seems to have a history of being for anyone who can and wants to do it, which I think sets it apart. There's a self-taught element but also a community aspect. It doesn't seem like there's a lot of gatekeeping within breaking -- everyone is willing to help each other and share skills, based on how many tutorials and schools there are.
Physics is also one of my favorite kinds of science because it explains everything we see in the world around us. Even if most people don't go about understanding breaking through physics, I think it's still cool to know why it works the way it does. There are common threads underpinning all the moves -- angular velocity, acceleration, momentum, center of mass, moment of inertia -- that we don't even think about. I think understanding the physics helps me appreciate why breaking works the way it does, because someone is working within the limits of what's physically possible. There's a reason why a body must be positioned a certain way in order to execute a move, there's a scientific answer behind the technique."
What aspects of Breaking do you find most interesting?
"Aside from it being physically incredible, I love the conversation aspect of it. The two dancers seem to be building off each other's energy in a way that's not always true for other sports. In many other Olympic sports, the athletes are competing against each other; it's about taking and maintaining a lead. With breaking, there's an exchange of capabilities with a call and response. There's still a competition going on, and a judgment of capabilities, but the breakers create a dialogue. One breaker makes a statement with their body, and then the other breaker gets a chance to respond. It's not just about one-upping each other, it's also about taking what one person puts down and making your own spin on it.
I also find clothes and style really interesting. Style in breaking is personal, but also functional. The clothes you wear will help reduce friction and gain speed. I love seeing how each b-boy and b-girl expresses their unique style, which is arguably as important as the moves themselves, while using clothes to their physical advantage."
What did you enjoy about our conversation about iconic power moves?
"I enjoyed hearing your self-described purist point of view. For example, I asked you about which surface was best for breaking, and you said that each surface is good in its own way. You seemed to accept that every scenario has its advantages and disadvantages. I also liked hearing about how fluid these power moves are -- they all seem to be able to transition into each other. It highlights the possibilities and many variations within breaking. There's not just one way to do anything.
I also appreciated that you asked if I've ever done a power move; you helped me realize that I have!"
What did you learn through our discussion?
"I learned that there are so many familiar motions that count as breaking. While breaking can look extremely complex and difficult, it all starts with simple moves. A somersault or cartwheel or handstand are all moves that breaking uses, and they're also moves that many of us learn how to do in childhood. You said a kid might say, 'Let me go on my back and push myself and, and spin. And oftentimes, they initially start spinning on their butt first, and then figure out how to transition to their back.' A kid might just be playing around by spinning on their butt at first, but that's the first step to breaking. It made me realize that I know more about breaking than I thought I did, that I have the ingredients to start putting together moves. But then it takes trial and error to see what feels right, and to figure out a proper technique to minimize friction and build momentum. But that all starts with playing around.
I also learned that learning breaking is quite intuitive. You emphasized that learning a move comes from someone's understanding of their own body. It seems like learning is highly individual to everyone.
You also talked about the larger network you are part of in breaking. You talked about how you campaigned for breaking to be at the X Games by connecting and organizing with other passionate breakers. It seems like the breaking community has so much strength in numbers and passion."
why we the dancers do what we do
*Make sure to press Play on Soundcloud player for Music treat!
Breakdancing, also known as breaking, rocking , getting down, go off or b-boying / b-girling isn't just a collection of impressive moves. It's a vibrant culture built on community, respect, and a shared passion for expression. And at the heart of this culture lies what we call in Hip Hop, the Cypher. A Cypher is a circular formation of people--in this case dancers-- where the magic truly happens.
" The concept of the cypher was introduced by an Islamic-based organization, the Five Percent Nation, also known as the Nation of Gods and Earth, which was an offshoot of the Nation of Islam and formed in Harlem during the mid-1960s. - The Dallas Observer
Five Percent Nation
For the novice stepping into their first breaking class, the cypher might seem intimidating. But for seasoned B-girls and B-boys, it's a sacred space pulsating with energy, history, and the raw essence of breaking. This blog dives deep into the significance of the cypher, exploring not just what it is, but what it represents for the breaking community
" The concept of the cypher was introduced by an Islamic-based organization, the Five Percent Nation, also known as the Nation of Gods and Earth, which was an offshoot of the Nation of Islam and formed in Harlem during the mid-1960s. - The Dallas Observer
Five Percent Nation
For the novice stepping into their first breaking class, the cypher might seem intimidating. But for seasoned B-girls and B-boys, it's a sacred space pulsating with energy, history, and the raw essence of breaking. This blog dives deep into the significance of the cypher, exploring not just what it is, but what it represents for the breaking community
Breaking Down the Walls: Community and Unity in the Circle
Imagine a vibrant group of people, pulsating with the beat of hip-hop. In the center, a circle forms, not to exclude, but to welcome. This circle is the cypher, and within its boundaries, all are equal.
For B-girls and B-boys, the cypher transcends age, race, and skill level. It's a space where passion for breaking unites individuals, fostering a strong sense of community. Whether you're a beginner mastering your first windmill or a seasoned veteran dropping jaws with mind-blowing footwork, the cypher welcomes you.
Respect the Circle, Respect the Craft: Stepping Up to the Challenge
Entering the cypher isn't just about showcasing your moves. It's an act of respect for the space and the dancers already there. It's a silent acknowledgement of their dedication and an unspoken agreement to uphold the spirit of breaking.
But the cypher is more than just respect - it's a challenge. It's your chance to step into the spotlight and unleash your creativity. Here, you can push your limits, experiment with new moves, and leave the audience breathless with your skill. It's a nerve-wracking but exhilarating experience that fuels growth and camaraderie
Imagine a vibrant group of people, pulsating with the beat of hip-hop. In the center, a circle forms, not to exclude, but to welcome. This circle is the cypher, and within its boundaries, all are equal.
For B-girls and B-boys, the cypher transcends age, race, and skill level. It's a space where passion for breaking unites individuals, fostering a strong sense of community. Whether you're a beginner mastering your first windmill or a seasoned veteran dropping jaws with mind-blowing footwork, the cypher welcomes you.
Respect the Circle, Respect the Craft: Stepping Up to the Challenge
Entering the cypher isn't just about showcasing your moves. It's an act of respect for the space and the dancers already there. It's a silent acknowledgement of their dedication and an unspoken agreement to uphold the spirit of breaking.
But the cypher is more than just respect - it's a challenge. It's your chance to step into the spotlight and unleash your creativity. Here, you can push your limits, experiment with new moves, and leave the audience breathless with your skill. It's a nerve-wracking but exhilarating experience that fuels growth and camaraderie
Image of Cypher In The Hood Event
Turning Up the Volume: The Flow and Call and Response of the Cypher
The circular format of the cypher isn't just symbolic. It creates a natural flow for dancers to take turns in the center,showcasing their unique styles. One dancer finishes their throw down, go down, set, routine, the energy builds, and another steps in, seamlessly picking up the rhythm.
This creates a beautiful call and response dynamic. The dancers build off each other's energy, their moves feeding into one another, creating an improvised masterpiece that's greater than the sum of its parts.
A Legacy in Motion: History and Tradition in the Circle
The cypher isn't just a modern phenomenon. It's a cornerstone of breaking's history, dating back to its birth in the New York City streets of the 1970s. The founders of breaking used the cypher as a platform for expression, battling for bragging rights and pushing the boundaries of the dance form.
Today, dancing in a cypher connects B-girls and B-boys to this rich legacy. It's a tangible link to the pioneers who paved the way. Every cypher becomes a living testament to breaking's evolution, a space where the past inspires the present and shapes the future.
The circular format of the cypher isn't just symbolic. It creates a natural flow for dancers to take turns in the center,showcasing their unique styles. One dancer finishes their throw down, go down, set, routine, the energy builds, and another steps in, seamlessly picking up the rhythm.
This creates a beautiful call and response dynamic. The dancers build off each other's energy, their moves feeding into one another, creating an improvised masterpiece that's greater than the sum of its parts.
A Legacy in Motion: History and Tradition in the Circle
The cypher isn't just a modern phenomenon. It's a cornerstone of breaking's history, dating back to its birth in the New York City streets of the 1970s. The founders of breaking used the cypher as a platform for expression, battling for bragging rights and pushing the boundaries of the dance form.
Today, dancing in a cypher connects B-girls and B-boys to this rich legacy. It's a tangible link to the pioneers who paved the way. Every cypher becomes a living testament to breaking's evolution, a space where the past inspires the present and shapes the future.
Video Footage post from Pluto Seven TBB Youtube Page, Style Wars Blu Ray Edition Bboy extra footage. Check out!Style Wars
More Than Moves: The Supportive Energy of the Cypher
While the spotlight shines on the dancers in the center, the true magic of the cypher extends beyond them. Surrounding the circle stands the crew - the B-girls, B-boys, and supporters who form the backbone of the breaking community.
Their cheers, claps, and words of encouragement create a symphony of support. The cypher becomes a breeding ground for positive energy, pushing dancers to break their limits and celebrate each other's triumphs. It's a safe space to experiment, fail, and rise again, all with the unwavering support of your breaking family.
While the spotlight shines on the dancers in the center, the true magic of the cypher extends beyond them. Surrounding the circle stands the crew - the B-girls, B-boys, and supporters who form the backbone of the breaking community.
Their cheers, claps, and words of encouragement create a symphony of support. The cypher becomes a breeding ground for positive energy, pushing dancers to break their limits and celebrate each other's triumphs. It's a safe space to experiment, fail, and rise again, all with the unwavering support of your breaking family.
Image of young practitioners learning about the dance circle also known as the Cypher
Join the Circle, Find Your Voice
The cypher is more than just a dance floor. It's a community center, a battleground, and a historical landmark. It's a space where respect meets challenge, tradition meets innovation, and support fuels growth.
So, whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned breaker, the cypher welcomes you. Step into the circle, find your voice, and let your body tell your story.
The cypher is more than just a dance floor. It's a community center, a battleground, and a historical landmark. It's a space where respect meets challenge, tradition meets innovation, and support fuels growth.
So, whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned breaker, the cypher welcomes you. Step into the circle, find your voice, and let your body tell your story.
Ready to Break Into the Community?
This blog has just scratched the surface of the cypher's significance. The breaking community is vast and welcoming. Here are some ways to get involved:
This blog has just scratched the surface of the cypher's significance. The breaking community is vast and welcoming. Here are some ways to get involved:
- Find a local breaking class: Many community centers and dance studios offer breaking classes for all skill levels.
- Seek out cyphers in your area: Check online forums or social media groups.
Key Take Aways:
Dancing in a circle, also called a cypher, holds a deep significance for Bgirls and Bboys for a few reasons:
Dancing in a circle, also called a cypher, holds a deep significance for Bgirls and Bboys for a few reasons:
- Community and Unity: The circle creates a shared space for dancers to come together, regardless of background or skill level. It fosters a sense of community and belonging within the breaking culture.
- Respect and Challenge: Entering the cypher shows respect for the space and the dancers already there. It's also a challenge, an opportunity to showcase your skills and creativity in front of your peers.
- Turn Taking and Flow: The circular format allows for a natural flow of dancers taking turns in the center to showcase their moves. It creates a call and response energy, where dancers can build off each other's energy.
- History and Tradition: Cyphers were a core element of breakdancing's origins in New York City. Dancing in a circle connects Bgirls and Bboys to the history and tradition of the art form.
- Support and Encouragement: Those outside the circle provide encouragement and hype for the dancers in the center. It's a supportive environment for Bgirls and Bboys to push their boundaries and grow as dancers.
New Podcast with Bboy Rise, Flonetik, Rampage
Parents: Yevgeny , Ed Miller Youth Bboys: Shockwave, Juneski, Bboy Fire & Bboy Temok
This interview dives into the world of breaking, also known as bboying and bgirling amongst our peers, through the eyes of participants at a recent event. We hear from dancers, parents, and even a young breaker, all sharing their unique experiences and perspectives on this dynamic dance form.
Key Takeaways:
This interview provides a glimpse into the vibrant world of breaking, showcasing the dedication, passion, and camaraderie that fuels this unique dance culture.
Key Takeaways:
- Passion and Inspiration: Many Bboys/Bgirls started breaking out of sheer passion, inspired by friends, family, or the incredible athleticism and creativity of the dance itself.
- Community and Support: Breaking fosters a strong sense of community, with participants emphasizing the importance of supporting each other and building each other up.
- Learning and Growth: From mastering new moves to managing different responsibilities, breaking offers continuous learning opportunities, both physical and mental.
- Freedom and Expression: Breaking is highlighted as a way to express oneself freely, pushing boundaries and showcasing individuality through movement.
This interview provides a glimpse into the vibrant world of breaking, showcasing the dedication, passion, and camaraderie that fuels this unique dance culture.
*Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle Transcription
Yo What Up Bboy Bgirl fam! Welcome to the first-ever episode of Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle Live! I'm your host, Bboy Rival, and I'm super excited to be bringing you interviews with some of the dopest Bboys, Bgirls, and members of the breaking community right after fresh events. Today, we're catching all the vibes right after Style On' Em 2.
Let's jump right in and hear from the dancers, crews, and parents who make this scene so special!
Bboy Rival:
All right first question, what’s your bboy name? What crew do you represent? What's the reason that you started breaking ?
Bboy Rise:
My name is a Bboy RIse. My name represents exactly what I strive for in my training is to keep rising so whenever like things feel tough or down and out. I always look at my name and I’m like ,
Yo just keep rising and pushing my self either physical mental emotional.
What was the other question again?
Bboy Rival:
What's the reason you started breaking?
Bboy Rise:
Oh my cousin Form. So like just seeing him get down on concrete, with Timberlands on, at 180 pounds not touching the floor. like you don't hear his feet , with Tims on concrete and 30 degree weather. I was like bro this is it. And I used to play ball I was like na I’m changing my dream bro like , So he inspired me big time.
Bboy Rival:
Word, Word, OK what's one thing that you like from todays jam?
Bboy Rise:
Oh man, just Like the community. like the thing that’s most important is seeing the coaches supporting, judges getting all the help from everybody, just coming together, that to me is like everything. Like all of us being together in one place that's all I really care about
===
Bboy Rival:
what is something that you learn?
Bboy Rise:
Oh give the Mic to people because my I can't speak haha and maybe a little better, crowd control. I think I could have did better with that.
Everything else I think we went well.
Bboy Rival:
All right cool so What’s your Bboy name , What crew do you represent and then what's the reason that you started breaking ?
Bboy Flonetik:
My name is Bboy Flonetik, I represent Full Circle Soldiers, Hidden gems and Algorythms. My name stands for flow and kinetic energy which translates into my style which has a lot of transitional movements and being able to connect the movements. I start breaking in an after-school program. Working for an after-school program and seeing kids do it inspired me to actually keep going. At First the movements were easy just like a little bit of footwork and then slowly but surely I dive in more into the culture and understand breaking and Hip Hop.
===
Bboy Rival:
word word all right and the second question is what did you like from today?
Bboy Flonetik:
What I really like from today's event is that there's a lot of people that supported that you know that came battle and supported, you know we all work together and the kids are the future and the fact that we all come together to represent that, so that way there's a future in breaking in or providing that for the community this is what I really see and I like
Bboy Rival:
Word, and then what's one thing that you learned from today?
Bboy Flonetik:
I learned from today, how to manage different jobs so I was also , I was coaching my students as well as recording helping out Rise with his event. You know we're all here for each other and you know the last thing I want is for his event to not be successful Because I would want other people to do the same for me and for my event.
Bboy Rival:
Cool ,cool, any other parents here so I can have their permission? All right so I just wanted to know if I have your permission to interview them and then what's your name what's the reason you want them to participate in breaking?
Parent ( Yevgeny)
Ohh, good questions. My name is Yevgeny. I originally started because I thought it was worth it , it was gonna be for good for fitness I thought they would be able to do this when we were little. they would be able to do any sport later on because they have domain of their body like I'm all into fitness and everything I have never done breakdancing. I wish if my parents did this for me so but then you know we just weren't exposed to that so I thought if this is something I would get them ready for pretty much anything but they got really into it.
Yo What Up Bboy Bgirl fam! Welcome to the first-ever episode of Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle Live! I'm your host, Bboy Rival, and I'm super excited to be bringing you interviews with some of the dopest Bboys, Bgirls, and members of the breaking community right after fresh events. Today, we're catching all the vibes right after Style On' Em 2.
Let's jump right in and hear from the dancers, crews, and parents who make this scene so special!
Bboy Rival:
All right first question, what’s your bboy name? What crew do you represent? What's the reason that you started breaking ?
Bboy Rise:
My name is a Bboy RIse. My name represents exactly what I strive for in my training is to keep rising so whenever like things feel tough or down and out. I always look at my name and I’m like ,
Yo just keep rising and pushing my self either physical mental emotional.
What was the other question again?
Bboy Rival:
What's the reason you started breaking?
Bboy Rise:
Oh my cousin Form. So like just seeing him get down on concrete, with Timberlands on, at 180 pounds not touching the floor. like you don't hear his feet , with Tims on concrete and 30 degree weather. I was like bro this is it. And I used to play ball I was like na I’m changing my dream bro like , So he inspired me big time.
Bboy Rival:
Word, Word, OK what's one thing that you like from todays jam?
Bboy Rise:
Oh man, just Like the community. like the thing that’s most important is seeing the coaches supporting, judges getting all the help from everybody, just coming together, that to me is like everything. Like all of us being together in one place that's all I really care about
===
Bboy Rival:
what is something that you learn?
Bboy Rise:
Oh give the Mic to people because my I can't speak haha and maybe a little better, crowd control. I think I could have did better with that.
Everything else I think we went well.
Bboy Rival:
All right cool so What’s your Bboy name , What crew do you represent and then what's the reason that you started breaking ?
Bboy Flonetik:
My name is Bboy Flonetik, I represent Full Circle Soldiers, Hidden gems and Algorythms. My name stands for flow and kinetic energy which translates into my style which has a lot of transitional movements and being able to connect the movements. I start breaking in an after-school program. Working for an after-school program and seeing kids do it inspired me to actually keep going. At First the movements were easy just like a little bit of footwork and then slowly but surely I dive in more into the culture and understand breaking and Hip Hop.
===
Bboy Rival:
word word all right and the second question is what did you like from today?
Bboy Flonetik:
What I really like from today's event is that there's a lot of people that supported that you know that came battle and supported, you know we all work together and the kids are the future and the fact that we all come together to represent that, so that way there's a future in breaking in or providing that for the community this is what I really see and I like
Bboy Rival:
Word, and then what's one thing that you learned from today?
Bboy Flonetik:
I learned from today, how to manage different jobs so I was also , I was coaching my students as well as recording helping out Rise with his event. You know we're all here for each other and you know the last thing I want is for his event to not be successful Because I would want other people to do the same for me and for my event.
Bboy Rival:
Cool ,cool, any other parents here so I can have their permission? All right so I just wanted to know if I have your permission to interview them and then what's your name what's the reason you want them to participate in breaking?
Parent ( Yevgeny)
Ohh, good questions. My name is Yevgeny. I originally started because I thought it was worth it , it was gonna be for good for fitness I thought they would be able to do this when we were little. they would be able to do any sport later on because they have domain of their body like I'm all into fitness and everything I have never done breakdancing. I wish if my parents did this for me so but then you know we just weren't exposed to that so I thought if this is something I would get them ready for pretty much anything but they got really into it.
Coming together to uplift the youth in the NYC scene
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Bboy Rival:
Nice , Nice, Nice, ok cool, is it ok to ask them? what's your names and what crew do you represent and then whats the reason that you started breaking?
Bboy Shockwave:
My name is a Bboy Shockwave I represent Brooklyn New York Princeton New Jersey and 360 flow Breaking crew. The reason I started breaking because of him, my cousin, Juneski, and I mean like why not, I thought was pretty cool so yeah that's the main reason.
Bboy Juneski:
My name is Bboy Juneski I represent for 360 Flow . The reason why I start breaking was my father reminded me of it and I thought he saw it in Russia. And I thought was pretty cool it's like to be able to move your body around the floor like spin and do all this good stuff so I thought why not try it and I saw trying I thought and I thought was amazing so I did it .
Bboy Rival:
Dope dope all right it was one thing that you like from today's event?
Bboy Shockwave:
The main thing I like is like the energy really motivated me to continue and yeah without the energy I would not have been dancing as well as I have been today.
Bboy Rival:
And was one thing that you liked today?
Bboy Juneski:
Great competition the brackets were set up perfectly, age set up and all the competitions were intense and all that Amazing
Bboy Rival:
Dope, OK what's one thing that you learned ?
Bboy Shockwave:
I learned that in breaking confidence wins you more battles than pure skill and before before I had this confidence I found it hard to find success and now that I like build some confidence up I’m improving much faster than I was before.
Bboy Juneski:
I learned to not like team demotivate myself because in the top 8 I I thought I was gonna get completed wrecked but then when I noticed like I 3-0 them I noticed that I should never I should never hold myself back I should always push forward.
Bboy Rival:
word word thank you, Thank you very much..
Bboy Rival:
So the first question is what is your name and then second question is what's the reason you want them ( your children) involved in Breaking?
Parent ( Ed Miller ):
All right so my name is Ed Miller. Bboy Fire’s dad. And why do I want my kid involved in breaking ? Well he was born dancing and loves to dance but didn't find the right connection until we found Steven and Anthony and the Dynasty crew ( 5 Crew Dynasty) on the track of Astoria Park. Eddie saw it and he lit up. I think like I don't know one or two classes in and this was it for him, this was his thing and it's really, everything's taken a backseat in his brain. This has been what's had him going, It's been a year and a half about.
Bboy Rival:
Oh Nice!
Parent ( Ed Miller ):
So you know just watching the, I don’t know just the energy and just the intensity but the enjoyment that he brings when he's breaking. It's been a perfect fit for him.
Nice , Nice, Nice, ok cool, is it ok to ask them? what's your names and what crew do you represent and then whats the reason that you started breaking?
Bboy Shockwave:
My name is a Bboy Shockwave I represent Brooklyn New York Princeton New Jersey and 360 flow Breaking crew. The reason I started breaking because of him, my cousin, Juneski, and I mean like why not, I thought was pretty cool so yeah that's the main reason.
Bboy Juneski:
My name is Bboy Juneski I represent for 360 Flow . The reason why I start breaking was my father reminded me of it and I thought he saw it in Russia. And I thought was pretty cool it's like to be able to move your body around the floor like spin and do all this good stuff so I thought why not try it and I saw trying I thought and I thought was amazing so I did it .
Bboy Rival:
Dope dope all right it was one thing that you like from today's event?
Bboy Shockwave:
The main thing I like is like the energy really motivated me to continue and yeah without the energy I would not have been dancing as well as I have been today.
Bboy Rival:
And was one thing that you liked today?
Bboy Juneski:
Great competition the brackets were set up perfectly, age set up and all the competitions were intense and all that Amazing
Bboy Rival:
Dope, OK what's one thing that you learned ?
Bboy Shockwave:
I learned that in breaking confidence wins you more battles than pure skill and before before I had this confidence I found it hard to find success and now that I like build some confidence up I’m improving much faster than I was before.
Bboy Juneski:
I learned to not like team demotivate myself because in the top 8 I I thought I was gonna get completed wrecked but then when I noticed like I 3-0 them I noticed that I should never I should never hold myself back I should always push forward.
Bboy Rival:
word word thank you, Thank you very much..
Bboy Rival:
So the first question is what is your name and then second question is what's the reason you want them ( your children) involved in Breaking?
Parent ( Ed Miller ):
All right so my name is Ed Miller. Bboy Fire’s dad. And why do I want my kid involved in breaking ? Well he was born dancing and loves to dance but didn't find the right connection until we found Steven and Anthony and the Dynasty crew ( 5 Crew Dynasty) on the track of Astoria Park. Eddie saw it and he lit up. I think like I don't know one or two classes in and this was it for him, this was his thing and it's really, everything's taken a backseat in his brain. This has been what's had him going, It's been a year and a half about.
Bboy Rival:
Oh Nice!
Parent ( Ed Miller ):
So you know just watching the, I don’t know just the energy and just the intensity but the enjoyment that he brings when he's breaking. It's been a perfect fit for him.
#bboybreaks #bgirlbreaks
Bboy Rival:
Thank you thank you, what's your Bboy name, what crew do you represent, and what's the reason you started breaking?
Bboy Rampage:
Yeah so my name is Rampage, 5 Crew Dynasty, represent Queens New York, Brooklyn New York, all of New York. Well I started breaking, really is gonna sound funny but to impress girls because I was a teenager and I started to, I got there and I had no rhythm zero rhythm to save my life but I was always athletic enough to do handstands and things like that and then when I found breaking and it was really just a look cool but then as I got into it, I was always athletic right I did sports and things like that but I couldn't really be free when you do sports you know it's just either dribble ball pass and shoot it you throw ball hit the ball whatever and that's kind of the end of it and that's that's dope for people who are really into it but when I found some thing equally or more physically demanding and more athletic plus I can be creative with it that's what really kept me involved in it and then as I went along the way I met my crew and they were all just friends my age
We were friends first and crew first and then we just all happen to love the same thing so that also kept me going with the too.
Bboy Rival:
Word Word OK and last two questions. What’s something that you like from today and the second one is what is something that you learned ?
Bboy Rampage:
What I liked about today was the energy for all the competitors so like sometimes you go to jams and you see like someone's favorite bboy gets mad love because of their name or what ever they might not even kill it I just got my love for a baby freeze on beat you know what I’m saying but here are all the competitors whether there were killing it or kinda just Vibin out all the kids got a lot of love from the crowd so I really like that. One thing I learned today is that teamwork makes the dream work baby I mean anything a 2 on 2 format or up is it is a crew is a team. so really balancing that energy with your crew mate and who you enter with Is a, is very important and I mean I've kind of always known that cause my crew , 5 Crew we really love doing routines and working together to do bigger routines and things like that but it was kind a revisiting that idea.
Bboy Rival:
All right if it's OK with you I'd like to ask you what your name is and what's the reason that you
started breaking ?
Bboy Fire:
My name is Bboy Fire and the reason I start breaking is because I didn't like my hip-hop classes because I have a classes were like choreography and I want to be like creative and like not have to do something that someone tells me to do, like be free that's why I started breaking.
Bboy Rival:
nice nice OK and what something that you like from today's event ?
Bboy Fire:
Something that I liked was that when we were practicing it wasn't our routines weren’t that good but when we went to the battle it was so good
Bboy Rival:
Nice, So the way you all made it happen , how it mixed, Nice Nice What is something that you learned?
Bboy Fire:
I learned that if you believe in yourself you can do something ,
Bboy Rival:
So nice nice nice all right all right powerful, powerful..
IF it alright with you what's your bboy name and what crew do you represent ?
Bboy Temok:
oh my name is Bboy Temok I represent Dynasty Breaking NYC
Bboy Rival:
Nice Nice What’s the reason your started breaking?
Bboy Temok:
I started breaking cause I grew up with the twins Tricks and Jules they've known me since before I was, my mom was pregnant so I’ve known them forever . I’ve seen him break up at parties as a little kid . I heard that they started a school for breaking and I'm like aight ,I let me do it cause I've tried , I did every sport I did basketball soccer swimming track everything and I hated all of it and breaking was just such so so free to me where it had as much instruction as something could give, give me the most freedom that you know like giving me responsibility and having me hold down something. Keeping a structure to it
Bboy Rival:
Word, OK and what is something that you like from today's event?
Bboy Temok:
What I liked from today's event it was very competitive but so respectful at the same time between opponents and just the community was all there and it was just really dope ambience and everything.
Bboy Rival:
Nice and what’s was one thing that you learned?
Bboy Temok:
Something I learned is that everything comes with hard work at the end it pays off you know you never there just keep pushing to get to the top.
Bboy Rival:
Nice thank you thank you thank you very much
Thank you thank you, what's your Bboy name, what crew do you represent, and what's the reason you started breaking?
Bboy Rampage:
Yeah so my name is Rampage, 5 Crew Dynasty, represent Queens New York, Brooklyn New York, all of New York. Well I started breaking, really is gonna sound funny but to impress girls because I was a teenager and I started to, I got there and I had no rhythm zero rhythm to save my life but I was always athletic enough to do handstands and things like that and then when I found breaking and it was really just a look cool but then as I got into it, I was always athletic right I did sports and things like that but I couldn't really be free when you do sports you know it's just either dribble ball pass and shoot it you throw ball hit the ball whatever and that's kind of the end of it and that's that's dope for people who are really into it but when I found some thing equally or more physically demanding and more athletic plus I can be creative with it that's what really kept me involved in it and then as I went along the way I met my crew and they were all just friends my age
We were friends first and crew first and then we just all happen to love the same thing so that also kept me going with the too.
Bboy Rival:
Word Word OK and last two questions. What’s something that you like from today and the second one is what is something that you learned ?
Bboy Rampage:
What I liked about today was the energy for all the competitors so like sometimes you go to jams and you see like someone's favorite bboy gets mad love because of their name or what ever they might not even kill it I just got my love for a baby freeze on beat you know what I’m saying but here are all the competitors whether there were killing it or kinda just Vibin out all the kids got a lot of love from the crowd so I really like that. One thing I learned today is that teamwork makes the dream work baby I mean anything a 2 on 2 format or up is it is a crew is a team. so really balancing that energy with your crew mate and who you enter with Is a, is very important and I mean I've kind of always known that cause my crew , 5 Crew we really love doing routines and working together to do bigger routines and things like that but it was kind a revisiting that idea.
Bboy Rival:
All right if it's OK with you I'd like to ask you what your name is and what's the reason that you
started breaking ?
Bboy Fire:
My name is Bboy Fire and the reason I start breaking is because I didn't like my hip-hop classes because I have a classes were like choreography and I want to be like creative and like not have to do something that someone tells me to do, like be free that's why I started breaking.
Bboy Rival:
nice nice OK and what something that you like from today's event ?
Bboy Fire:
Something that I liked was that when we were practicing it wasn't our routines weren’t that good but when we went to the battle it was so good
Bboy Rival:
Nice, So the way you all made it happen , how it mixed, Nice Nice What is something that you learned?
Bboy Fire:
I learned that if you believe in yourself you can do something ,
Bboy Rival:
So nice nice nice all right all right powerful, powerful..
IF it alright with you what's your bboy name and what crew do you represent ?
Bboy Temok:
oh my name is Bboy Temok I represent Dynasty Breaking NYC
Bboy Rival:
Nice Nice What’s the reason your started breaking?
Bboy Temok:
I started breaking cause I grew up with the twins Tricks and Jules they've known me since before I was, my mom was pregnant so I’ve known them forever . I’ve seen him break up at parties as a little kid . I heard that they started a school for breaking and I'm like aight ,I let me do it cause I've tried , I did every sport I did basketball soccer swimming track everything and I hated all of it and breaking was just such so so free to me where it had as much instruction as something could give, give me the most freedom that you know like giving me responsibility and having me hold down something. Keeping a structure to it
Bboy Rival:
Word, OK and what is something that you like from today's event?
Bboy Temok:
What I liked from today's event it was very competitive but so respectful at the same time between opponents and just the community was all there and it was just really dope ambience and everything.
Bboy Rival:
Nice and what’s was one thing that you learned?
Bboy Temok:
Something I learned is that everything comes with hard work at the end it pays off you know you never there just keep pushing to get to the top.
Bboy Rival:
Nice thank you thank you thank you very much
Memorable Quotes:
"Yo just keep rising and pushing myself either physical mental emotional." - Bboy Rise
"The thing that's most important is seeing the coaches supporting, judges getting all the help from everybody, just coming together, that to me is like everything." - Bboy Rise
"flow and kinetic energy which translates into my style which has a lot of transitional movements and being able to connect the movements." - Bboy Flonetik
"confidence wins you more battles than pure skill" - Bboy Shockwave
"It's been a perfect fit for him." - Parent (Ed Miller) about his son Bboy Fire
"I didn't like my hip-hop classes because I have a classes were like choreography and I want to be like creative and like not have to do something that someone tells me to do, like be free that's why I start breaking." - Bboy Fire
"everything comes with hard work at the end it pays off you know you never there just keep pushing to get to the top." - Bboy Temok
Let's Break it Down
Original Image By: Luis Andrade. Edit and Design Layout "Forbes Inspired" : Henry "Rival" Vijande
For more than half a century since its inception, now leading into an Olympic bounce, sensory hacking has happened in our dance circles knowingly and unknowingly. Here's the breakdown:
Have you ever experienced the playful mischievous act of Tap and go, Ghost touch, Blindside tap or simply the Opposite shoulder tap? Ever found yourself strangely flinching just before someone taps your shoulder? This act is a physical touch play on your senses. This game or action has evolved into a modern day game, the pointing game or shadow boxing. Direct your seeing in the opposite direction of where your opponent points. If you look where the other player is pointing, you lose. This simple act demands more than just quick reflexes. It involves your visual system, mirror neurons working together, kinesthesia and proprioception.
Well you may be asking yourself what relevancy does this have with Breaking, moreover the Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle? Whether you know this or not, as BGirls and BBoys we are constantly sharpening our vision, mirror neurons, kinesthesia and our proprioception. These often-overlooked senses form the foundation of every Bboy and Bgirl's artistry, dictating our movement, awareness, and ultimately, our success. From the New child practitioner to Female or Male Breakers, or Break Dancers to the Professional BGirls and BBoys, this self awareness is key in our self ranking of how we evolve. What exactly are these terms, and how do they elevate the Bboy and Bgirl to new levels of skill and expression? Today we dive into what our visual system, mirror neurons, kinesthesia , and proprioception is. The pros and cons of developing these sense skills. We will also take a look at ways to protect your energy, and self preservation.
The Symphony of Senses: Our Vison, Mirror Neurons, Kinesthesia and Proprioception
Imagine throwing a perfect strike in bowling without ever setting eyes on the pins. That's the power of kinesthesia, your body's sense of movement and limb position in space. It's a network of sensory receptors in your muscles, tendons, and joints that constantly send signals to your brain, creating a detailed map of your body's position and movement. Whispering to your brain, "Hey, your arm is extended this way, and your fingers are gripping the ball like this." This silent communication allows you to control your body with precision, even with your eyes closed. Think of kinesthesia as your body's internal GPS. It's the sense that tells you where your body parts are in space, even with your eyes closed. It's why you can touch your nose without looking or walk without tripping over your own feet.
Now, picture yourself navigating a crowded Jam making your way to the dance floor without bumping into anyone. That's where proprioception steps in. Proprioception is the awareness of joint position and muscle movement. This sixth sense also acts like an internal GPS, constantly updating your brain on your body's position in space. It links information from your inner ear, skin, and joints, forming a map of your body's relationship to the environment. Proprioception, your body's sense of self-motion and position in space, adds another layer to this map. It's like having an internal gyroscope that tracks your movement, speed, and acceleration. Imagine hitting some smooth windmills; proprioception allows you to feel the momentum, adjust your center of gravity, and glide gracefully. The visual system includes both the eyes and the brain. Our visual system helps us recognize depth perception, aided by binocular vision, eyes facing the same direction to see an image . It is crucial for navigating the dance floor, avoiding collisions, and judging distances for control in top rock, footwork, power moves and freezes. Mirror neurons fire not just when we perform an action, but also when we observe it in others. Mirror neurons, tiny neural mirrors, reflect observed actions, shaping our ability to adapt and learn from the world around us.This allows us to anticipate movements, understand intentions, and even subconsciously imitate. In breaking, this translates to:
Have you ever experienced the playful mischievous act of Tap and go, Ghost touch, Blindside tap or simply the Opposite shoulder tap? Ever found yourself strangely flinching just before someone taps your shoulder? This act is a physical touch play on your senses. This game or action has evolved into a modern day game, the pointing game or shadow boxing. Direct your seeing in the opposite direction of where your opponent points. If you look where the other player is pointing, you lose. This simple act demands more than just quick reflexes. It involves your visual system, mirror neurons working together, kinesthesia and proprioception.
Well you may be asking yourself what relevancy does this have with Breaking, moreover the Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle? Whether you know this or not, as BGirls and BBoys we are constantly sharpening our vision, mirror neurons, kinesthesia and our proprioception. These often-overlooked senses form the foundation of every Bboy and Bgirl's artistry, dictating our movement, awareness, and ultimately, our success. From the New child practitioner to Female or Male Breakers, or Break Dancers to the Professional BGirls and BBoys, this self awareness is key in our self ranking of how we evolve. What exactly are these terms, and how do they elevate the Bboy and Bgirl to new levels of skill and expression? Today we dive into what our visual system, mirror neurons, kinesthesia , and proprioception is. The pros and cons of developing these sense skills. We will also take a look at ways to protect your energy, and self preservation.
The Symphony of Senses: Our Vison, Mirror Neurons, Kinesthesia and Proprioception
Imagine throwing a perfect strike in bowling without ever setting eyes on the pins. That's the power of kinesthesia, your body's sense of movement and limb position in space. It's a network of sensory receptors in your muscles, tendons, and joints that constantly send signals to your brain, creating a detailed map of your body's position and movement. Whispering to your brain, "Hey, your arm is extended this way, and your fingers are gripping the ball like this." This silent communication allows you to control your body with precision, even with your eyes closed. Think of kinesthesia as your body's internal GPS. It's the sense that tells you where your body parts are in space, even with your eyes closed. It's why you can touch your nose without looking or walk without tripping over your own feet.
Now, picture yourself navigating a crowded Jam making your way to the dance floor without bumping into anyone. That's where proprioception steps in. Proprioception is the awareness of joint position and muscle movement. This sixth sense also acts like an internal GPS, constantly updating your brain on your body's position in space. It links information from your inner ear, skin, and joints, forming a map of your body's relationship to the environment. Proprioception, your body's sense of self-motion and position in space, adds another layer to this map. It's like having an internal gyroscope that tracks your movement, speed, and acceleration. Imagine hitting some smooth windmills; proprioception allows you to feel the momentum, adjust your center of gravity, and glide gracefully. The visual system includes both the eyes and the brain. Our visual system helps us recognize depth perception, aided by binocular vision, eyes facing the same direction to see an image . It is crucial for navigating the dance floor, avoiding collisions, and judging distances for control in top rock, footwork, power moves and freezes. Mirror neurons fire not just when we perform an action, but also when we observe it in others. Mirror neurons, tiny neural mirrors, reflect observed actions, shaping our ability to adapt and learn from the world around us.This allows us to anticipate movements, understand intentions, and even subconsciously imitate. In breaking, this translates to:
- Reading opponents' cues: A subtle shift in gaze or body language can give away their next move. Mirror neurons help us process these cues subconsciously, allowing for quicker reactions and strategic counters.
- Adapting to the cypher: The ever-changing flow of dancers in a cypher requires constant adjustment. Mirror neurons help us navigate this dynamic environment, predicting movements and seamlessly integrating into the collective flow.
*Update 2/15/24
General Principles:
All living organisms with a nervous system require some form of sensory stimulation to function and interact with their environment. Sensory information is carried by specialized receptors that convert external stimuli into electrical signals. These signals travel through neurons to the brain where they are processed and interpreted. Perception of sensory information is influenced by numerous factors like individual variations in physiology, prior experiences, and current psychological state. Interpreting and experiencing these stimuli are subjective and highly individual. What might be pleasant or stimulating for one person could be overwhelming or unpleasant for another.
Breaking the Mold: Why Self-Awareness is your Secret Weapon
For Bboys and Bgirls, kinesthesia, proprioception, our vision and mirror neurons fuel our artistry. Imagine attempting a headspin without knowing where your head is in space, or landing a freeze without feeling the tension in your muscles. The very essence of Breaking – power, control, and fluidity – depends on a deep understanding of how your body moves and interacts with the world around you.
Breaking aka breakdancing demands mastery of both senses. Every powermove, from freezes like the chair freeze to spins like the windmill, requires precise kinesthetic understanding of muscle engagement and joint stability. Bboys and Bgirls, we train our "muscle memory" to execute complex movements with fluidity and control. Proprioception allows us to navigate the dance floor, avoid collisions, seamlessly integrate with other dancers, therefore creating captivating cyphers (circles of dancers).
Beyond Technique: The Emotional Connection:
The impact of our dance goes beyond just mechanics. Kinesthesia and proprioception fuel the dancer's emotional connection to the movement. Imagine the exhilaration of landing a complex powermove or the frustration of battling while staying focused to balance in a freeze. This heightened awareness feeds into the emotional expression of the dance, making it more than just technical skill.
Sensory Warfare
With great power comes great responsibility. This heightened awareness can become a double-edged sword. Opponents and even onlookers with keen spatial awareness can exploit a dancer's proprioception.
Sensory manipulation: Experienced breakers can use mirror neurons to their advantage. A fake move, a strategic glance, or even a well-timed vocalization can trigger a subconscious reaction in their opponent, creating an opening for attack. Opponents can exploit visual illusions or misdirection tactics to disrupt a dancer's focus and balance.
See Video Examples of myself battling and inside the cypher capturing individuals manipulating these senses.
General Principles:
All living organisms with a nervous system require some form of sensory stimulation to function and interact with their environment. Sensory information is carried by specialized receptors that convert external stimuli into electrical signals. These signals travel through neurons to the brain where they are processed and interpreted. Perception of sensory information is influenced by numerous factors like individual variations in physiology, prior experiences, and current psychological state. Interpreting and experiencing these stimuli are subjective and highly individual. What might be pleasant or stimulating for one person could be overwhelming or unpleasant for another.
Breaking the Mold: Why Self-Awareness is your Secret Weapon
For Bboys and Bgirls, kinesthesia, proprioception, our vision and mirror neurons fuel our artistry. Imagine attempting a headspin without knowing where your head is in space, or landing a freeze without feeling the tension in your muscles. The very essence of Breaking – power, control, and fluidity – depends on a deep understanding of how your body moves and interacts with the world around you.
Breaking aka breakdancing demands mastery of both senses. Every powermove, from freezes like the chair freeze to spins like the windmill, requires precise kinesthetic understanding of muscle engagement and joint stability. Bboys and Bgirls, we train our "muscle memory" to execute complex movements with fluidity and control. Proprioception allows us to navigate the dance floor, avoid collisions, seamlessly integrate with other dancers, therefore creating captivating cyphers (circles of dancers).
Beyond Technique: The Emotional Connection:
The impact of our dance goes beyond just mechanics. Kinesthesia and proprioception fuel the dancer's emotional connection to the movement. Imagine the exhilaration of landing a complex powermove or the frustration of battling while staying focused to balance in a freeze. This heightened awareness feeds into the emotional expression of the dance, making it more than just technical skill.
Sensory Warfare
With great power comes great responsibility. This heightened awareness can become a double-edged sword. Opponents and even onlookers with keen spatial awareness can exploit a dancer's proprioception.
Sensory manipulation: Experienced breakers can use mirror neurons to their advantage. A fake move, a strategic glance, or even a well-timed vocalization can trigger a subconscious reaction in their opponent, creating an opening for attack. Opponents can exploit visual illusions or misdirection tactics to disrupt a dancer's focus and balance.
See Video Examples of myself battling and inside the cypher capturing individuals manipulating these senses.
A well-timed nudge might throw off our balance, and a subtle shift in seeing could disrupt our focus. This vulnerability adds another layer to the competitive scene, forcing dancers to develop mental fortitude and awareness beyond just their bodies. Manipulating someone's sensory organs (sight, sound, touch) while we are performing dynamic movements can disrupt our kinesthetic and proprioceptive awareness, leading to disorientation, loss of balance, and falls.
What can be done ?
The benefits of honed kinesthesia and proprioception for Bboys and Bgirls:
Be sure to also:
How can dancers guard their precious flow? Here are some strategies:
The Flip Side of the Coin: Challenges and Risks
Like any powerful tool, heightened self-awareness comes with its own set of challenges:
Ultimately, understanding the dangers and distractions that come with kinesthetic and proprioceptive awareness shouldn't stop you. Instead, view it as an opportunity to sharpen your mental game and elevate your dance to new levels. By mastering both your body and your mind, you become a dancer who not only commands respect but also inspires awe with your unwavering flow and captivating presence.
Safety should always be the top priority in any physical activity. If you feel unsafe or at risk, don't hesitate to stop and communicate your concerns to those involved. If you have concerns about safety or want to explore movement practices that involve sensory manipulation, consult a qualified healthcare professional or movement specialist experienced in breaking aka breakdancing and its potential risks.
What can be done ?
The benefits of honed kinesthesia and proprioception for Bboys and Bgirls:
- Enhanced Control and Coordination: Imagine landing a complex headstand freeze. Kinesthesia guides your head's placement, while proprioception ensures your body remains balanced. Sharper senses translate to smoother, more controlled movements, elevating the visual impact of your performance or throwdown.
- Injury Prevention: Misjudging your body's position or movement can lead to falls and injuries. Keen kinesthesia and proprioception allow you to anticipate imbalances, adjust your technique mid-move, and land safely, especially when attempting challenging power moves.
- Improvisation and Flow: Breaking thrives on spontaneity and adaptation, “FREESTYLING”. With heightened body awareness, you can seamlessly transition between moves, react to unexpected situations, and even integrate external elements (like walls or props) into your flow, adding layers of creativity and adaptability.
- Mastering Freezes and Posture: All freeze positions, top rock and footwork steps demand precision posture and stillness creating a state of balanced body control. Kinesthesia helps you find and hold that precise pose, while proprioception ensures your center of gravity remains stable, creating awe-inspiring moments of action.
Be sure to also:
- Listen to Your Body: Pushing through pain or ignoring fatigue can lead to overuse injuries. Kinesthesia and proprioception can help you recognize warning signs like muscle strain or joint discomfort, prompting you to rest and prevent injuries.
- Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Proper warm-up activates your senses and prepares your body for movement, while a cool-down allows your body to gradually return to its resting state. This reduces the risk of injuries and muscle soreness.
- Train Smart, Not Just Hard: Combine challenging moves with drills that focus on body awareness and control. Isolating movements and practicing slow, controlled progressions can refine your kinesthetic sense and proprioception, ultimately leading to safer and more efficient skill development.
- Fuel Your Body: Just like a car needs gas, your body needs proper nutrition and hydration to function optimally. Eating nutritious foods and staying hydrated provide the energy and essential nutrients your body needs for demanding training and performances.
How can dancers guard their precious flow? Here are some strategies:
- Develop Situational Awareness: Be mindful of your surroundings and the other dancers' movements. Anticipate potential disruptions and adjust your dance accordingly.
- Master Mental Fortitude: Train your mind to stay focused and unfazed by external distractions. Visualization and meditation can be powerful tools.
- Build a Support System: Surround yourself with positive and respectful dancers who value your artistry and won't intentionally disrupt your flow.
- Communicate Your Boundaries: Don't be afraid to politely but firmly request others to respect your space and focus.
The Flip Side of the Coin: Challenges and Risks
Like any powerful tool, heightened self-awareness comes with its own set of challenges:
- Overtraining: The relentless pursuit of mastery can lead to excessive training, putting undue stress on your body and mind. Listen to your body's signals and prioritize rest and recovery.
- Mental Blocks: Sometimes, overthinking movement can hinder spontaneity and joy. Remember, Breaking is about expression and connection, not just technical perfection.
- Comparison: Comparing your journey to others can dampen your spirits and hinder progress. Focus on your own unique path and celebrate your personal victories.
- Increased Risk of Injury: Falls and uncontrolled movements during spins and acrobatics can significantly increase the risk of injuries, ranging from scrapes and bruises to more serious musculoskeletal damage.
- Psychological Impact: Feeling unsafe or disoriented due to external manipulations can create anxiety and stress, further affecting performance and potentially leading to self-harm in an attempt to regain control.
Ultimately, understanding the dangers and distractions that come with kinesthetic and proprioceptive awareness shouldn't stop you. Instead, view it as an opportunity to sharpen your mental game and elevate your dance to new levels. By mastering both your body and your mind, you become a dancer who not only commands respect but also inspires awe with your unwavering flow and captivating presence.
Safety should always be the top priority in any physical activity. If you feel unsafe or at risk, don't hesitate to stop and communicate your concerns to those involved. If you have concerns about safety or want to explore movement practices that involve sensory manipulation, consult a qualified healthcare professional or movement specialist experienced in breaking aka breakdancing and its potential risks.
Protecting Your Energy and Ensuring Self-Preservation:
Breaking demands both physical and mental fortitude. Embrace the Journey. Kinesthesia and proprioception are more than just fancy terms for a biological phenomena; they're gateways to deeper self-awareness and enhanced artistry in our Breaking. They are the invisible forces that empower Bboys and Bgirls to move with confidence, creativity, and control. By unlocking our potential, we cultivate not just mind-blowing dope moves, but also resilience, focus, and a deeper connection to our body.
Remember, Breaking is a journey, not a destination. From playgrounds to world stages, Breaking thrives on the intricate interplay of kinesthesia and proprioception. By understanding these powerful senses and challenges they present, we BGirls and BBoys can unlock our full potential. We can navigate the dance floor with confidence, and create truly mesmerizing expressions of movement. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, most importantly, harness our inner compass and express it through our captivating art of Breaking, enjoy the dance!
“Be in tune with yourself, that will connect you to the beat that matters.” - Rival
Breaking demands both physical and mental fortitude. Embrace the Journey. Kinesthesia and proprioception are more than just fancy terms for a biological phenomena; they're gateways to deeper self-awareness and enhanced artistry in our Breaking. They are the invisible forces that empower Bboys and Bgirls to move with confidence, creativity, and control. By unlocking our potential, we cultivate not just mind-blowing dope moves, but also resilience, focus, and a deeper connection to our body.
Remember, Breaking is a journey, not a destination. From playgrounds to world stages, Breaking thrives on the intricate interplay of kinesthesia and proprioception. By understanding these powerful senses and challenges they present, we BGirls and BBoys can unlock our full potential. We can navigate the dance floor with confidence, and create truly mesmerizing expressions of movement. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, most importantly, harness our inner compass and express it through our captivating art of Breaking, enjoy the dance!
“Be in tune with yourself, that will connect you to the beat that matters.” - Rival
We break on the break.
Images Captured by: Shabuti Media for Liberty Science Center #lscafterdark Hip Hop 50th Anniversary Event
Breaking on the Break: The Organic Flow of Bboy and Bgirl Culture
Bboy Bgirl Dance Culture: Preserving and Educating the Next Generation!
Happy New Year! To start the year off we continue the faith of our Hip Hop , Breaking, Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle. Here is a simple message to propel the year.
Hip-hop and breaking aka breakdancing aren't forced; they happen.
We break on the break.
" A Bboy and a Bgirl is an individual who knows when to go off at the break of record. A Breakdancer will dance to anything. BREAKING! Getting Busy, Going off are different street terms used. However using the term Bboying, although we may have got caught in the mix, is like saying peopling. Make sense and talk with sense . - K-WON138
This is a fundamental truth about these art forms that is often misunderstood. Hip-hop and breaking aka breakdancing aren't about putting on a show or trying to be something you're not. They are about expression, and connection . This creates a vibe of a community of like minded individuals.
When people see hip-hop and "breakdancing" on TV or in movies, they often see the most extreme and acrobatic aspects of these art forms. This can give the impression that hip-hop and breakdancing are about being the best or the flashiest. However, this is not the case. Substitute the best for being your authentic self, and flashiness with the freshest you can be and now we have a recipe towards being a bboy /bgirl vs a break dancer.
*Why Hip-Hop and Breaking aka Breakdancing Are Not Forced
Hip-hop and breakdancing embrace competition however Hip Hop & Breaking emphasize freedom . They are about expression, common unity, and connection. They are about finding your own unique voice and sharing it with the world.
In the vibrant world of Hip Hop dance, there's a misconception that needs to be broken. It's the idea that breaking, also known as breakdancing, is about forcing your body into gravity-defying contortions to every beat of the music. But the truth is far funkier and more nuanced. Breaking isn't about brute force or nonstop movement; it's about feeling the music, finding the groove, and **exploding in a symphony of movement on the break**.
**What is the break, you ask?** It's that instrumental interlude in a song, that funky pocket where the rhythm shifts and the DJ lays down a bed of sonic fire. The break usually is some exciting percussions , a drum solo, a guitar solo, or any other instrument, where they go into double time often doing something different from what's been heard in the song. It's the moment the dancers lock in, the energy builds,bursts, and the floor becomes their canvas.
**Think of it like this:** A skilled painter doesn't just slap paint on a canvas willy-nilly. They study the composition, feel the colors, and let their brushstrokes dance/move with intention. Similarly, a b-boy or b-girl doesn't just flail around to every beat. They listen, they feel, they **respond to the music's pulse**. They wait for their moment, the break, to unleash their creativity and athleticism in a whirlwind of movements : top rock, power moves, drops, freezes, and footwork.
**This organic flow is what makes breaking so captivating.** It's a conversation between the dancer and the music, a call and response that transcends mere choreography. It's about feeling the rhythm in your blood & bones, letting it guide your body, and expressing yourself through movement.
**But wait, there's more!** Breaking isn't just about individual expression; it's also about community. It's about cyphers, circles of dancers trading moves and energy, pushing each other to new heights. It's about battles, not of egos but of skill and creativity, where respect and camaraderie reign supreme.
**And that's where the true magic lies.** Breaking isn't just a dance style; it's a culture, a way of life, a lifestyle. It's about passion, dedication, and respect. It's about pushing boundaries, defying expectations, and expressing yourself authentically.
**So, the next time you see a b-boy or b-girl tearing it up on the dance floor, remember:** They're not just showing off moves; they're riding the break, conversing with the music, and sharing their story through the universal language of movement.
Bboy Bgirl Dance Culture: Preserving and Educating the Next Generation!
Happy New Year! To start the year off we continue the faith of our Hip Hop , Breaking, Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle. Here is a simple message to propel the year.
Hip-hop and breaking aka breakdancing aren't forced; they happen.
We break on the break.
" A Bboy and a Bgirl is an individual who knows when to go off at the break of record. A Breakdancer will dance to anything. BREAKING! Getting Busy, Going off are different street terms used. However using the term Bboying, although we may have got caught in the mix, is like saying peopling. Make sense and talk with sense . - K-WON138
This is a fundamental truth about these art forms that is often misunderstood. Hip-hop and breaking aka breakdancing aren't about putting on a show or trying to be something you're not. They are about expression, and connection . This creates a vibe of a community of like minded individuals.
When people see hip-hop and "breakdancing" on TV or in movies, they often see the most extreme and acrobatic aspects of these art forms. This can give the impression that hip-hop and breakdancing are about being the best or the flashiest. However, this is not the case. Substitute the best for being your authentic self, and flashiness with the freshest you can be and now we have a recipe towards being a bboy /bgirl vs a break dancer.
*Why Hip-Hop and Breaking aka Breakdancing Are Not Forced
Hip-hop and breakdancing embrace competition however Hip Hop & Breaking emphasize freedom . They are about expression, common unity, and connection. They are about finding your own unique voice and sharing it with the world.
In the vibrant world of Hip Hop dance, there's a misconception that needs to be broken. It's the idea that breaking, also known as breakdancing, is about forcing your body into gravity-defying contortions to every beat of the music. But the truth is far funkier and more nuanced. Breaking isn't about brute force or nonstop movement; it's about feeling the music, finding the groove, and **exploding in a symphony of movement on the break**.
**What is the break, you ask?** It's that instrumental interlude in a song, that funky pocket where the rhythm shifts and the DJ lays down a bed of sonic fire. The break usually is some exciting percussions , a drum solo, a guitar solo, or any other instrument, where they go into double time often doing something different from what's been heard in the song. It's the moment the dancers lock in, the energy builds,bursts, and the floor becomes their canvas.
**Think of it like this:** A skilled painter doesn't just slap paint on a canvas willy-nilly. They study the composition, feel the colors, and let their brushstrokes dance/move with intention. Similarly, a b-boy or b-girl doesn't just flail around to every beat. They listen, they feel, they **respond to the music's pulse**. They wait for their moment, the break, to unleash their creativity and athleticism in a whirlwind of movements : top rock, power moves, drops, freezes, and footwork.
**This organic flow is what makes breaking so captivating.** It's a conversation between the dancer and the music, a call and response that transcends mere choreography. It's about feeling the rhythm in your blood & bones, letting it guide your body, and expressing yourself through movement.
**But wait, there's more!** Breaking isn't just about individual expression; it's also about community. It's about cyphers, circles of dancers trading moves and energy, pushing each other to new heights. It's about battles, not of egos but of skill and creativity, where respect and camaraderie reign supreme.
**And that's where the true magic lies.** Breaking isn't just a dance style; it's a culture, a way of life, a lifestyle. It's about passion, dedication, and respect. It's about pushing boundaries, defying expectations, and expressing yourself authentically.
**So, the next time you see a b-boy or b-girl tearing it up on the dance floor, remember:** They're not just showing off moves; they're riding the break, conversing with the music, and sharing their story through the universal language of movement.
|
**Preserving and Educating the Next Generation!**
As the custodians of this vibrant culture, it's our responsibility to preserve and educate the next generation. We can do this by: * **Supporting breaking programs and workshops.** * **Sharing our knowledge and experience with young dancers and each other** * **Creating opportunities for cyphers and battles.** * **Celebrating the history and values of breaking culture.** By keeping the break alive, we ensure that this powerful art form continues to inspire, empower, and connect generations to come. **So, let the beat drop, feel the rhythm, and break!** 
|
**Remember:** Breaking isn't forced, it's felt. It's a conversation with the music, a celebration of community, and an expression of the soul. Let's keep the break alive and share the magic of b-boy and b-girl culture with the world!
I hope this blog article has helped to clarify the misconception that breaking is forced. It's an organic art form that's all about feeling the music and moving on the break. Let's work together to preserve and educate the next generation about this amazing culture!
**In addition to the above, I would also like to add that:**
* Breaking is a great way to stay active and healthy.
* It can help to build confidence and self-esteem.
* It is a fun and rewarding way to express yourself creatively.
If you are interested in learning more about breaking, I encourage you to DM us for some further information as well as find a local class or workshop. There are also many great resources available online. With a little effort, you can learn the basics of this art form and start expressing yourself in a whole new way.
I hope this blog post has inspired you to learn more about breaking and b-boy/b-girl culture!
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*All music used on our page , video clips, in facility and in our presence is used under Fair Use for purposes of listening, and learning of us through dance. The music we use to dance is for self educational purpose of self knowledge on how to move to sound in a particular way i.e thru Breaking, bboying, Bgirling . We are not claiming any music or selling the music at all.
We share knowledge of the dance of Bboying, Bgirling, Breaking, Rocking, Going off, etc...
We share knowledge of the dance of Bboying, Bgirling, Breaking, Rocking, Going off, etc...