Breaking / Breakdancing in Jersey City: Building Confidence, Strength, and Community in YouthWhen culture and community come together, something powerful happens. Recently, I had the honor of being featured in TAPinto Jersey City in an article by Mansi Nargwani: “Breakdancing Builds Confidence and Community Among Jersey City Kids.” 👉 Read the full feature on TAPinto Jersey City This story highlights what we live every week at Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle, teaching breaking not just as a dance, but as a way to build confidence, discipline, creativity, and community among the youth in our city. More Than Just Dance MovesWhen I first started this program, my goal was simple: give kids a solid foundation in breaking, while showing them that dance can help them grow far beyond the floor. As I shared in the article: “My goal is to build a strong foundation in each student. If someone wants to take it further, whether that means competitions or just building lifelong confidence, I’ll be there to support and guide them.” And that’s exactly what we’ve seen. Parents like Danil, Jeremee, and Pawan, who were kind enough to share their perspectives, have noticed their kids becoming stronger, more confident, more disciplined, and more open to expressing themselves. Breaking gives them more than skills: it gives them identity and voice.  Orig. Photo Credit: Parent of Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle Program Edit / Recolor : H. Vijande The Atmosphere of Our SessionsEvery week at Lincoln Park’s gazebo, the sound of Hip-Hop fills the air as kids experiment with top rock, footwork, freezes, and cyphers. The vibe is always the same: support, laughter, and encouragement. These sessions are about learning and participation. Each child finds their own rhythm, their own style, and their own confidence. And along the way, friendships are built, community bonds are strengthened, and culture is passed on. Featured Reel 🎥I created an Instagram reel that captures some of these moments—featuring both our community photos and clips provided by TAPinto.  The visuals show exactly what words can’t fully capture: the smiles, the energy, and the power of movement when kids are given space to shine. GratitudeI want to give a big thank you to Mansi Nargwani for her thoughtful writing, to TAPinto Jersey City for shining a light on our work, and most importantly to the parents and kids who make Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle what it is. This moment isn’t just ours, it’s for every young breaker learning how to move through life with rhythm, resilience, and community. 👉 Want to experience breaking? Register here 
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From crayons to freezes, this is where creativity, culture, and confidence come together. By Henry “Rival” Vijande Founder, Bboy Bgirl Lifestyle | Jersey City, NJ I’ve watched confidence take shape in so many forms. Sometimes as a power move, other times as quiet as a crayon on paper. What I’ve come to understand is this: creativity is the seed, but movement is what helps it grow. In every class, I see that transformation happen. Through breaking, kids and adults don’t just learn how to move they learn how to express who they are and what they’re capable of. 📌 Note: While I use the term “breakdancing” in the title to help new readers find this post, in the culture, we call it breaking.That distinction matters. Breaking is more than a label. It’s a lifestyle, a discipline, and a legacy. This blog reflects that spirit. From Paper to Power Moves There’s something powerful about watching a young person write their name in graffiti letters for the first time. It’s more than just art, it’s identity. Often, it doesn’t take long before those same hands are holding freezes, finding balance, catching rhythms, and discovering movement. This is how I see it:
 🔗 See it on YouTube: From top rock to teamworkLeading the Next Generation I had the honor of sharing space with three Girl Scout troops recently. From top rock to teamwork. I watched leadership take form. These weren’t just kids following steps. They were learning how to lead, how to move with purpose, and how to find their own rhythm. “Hip Hop starts with a voice. Breaking is the reaction.” That day reminded me of why I do this. I don’t just teach moves. I open doors and I hold the space long enough for others to walk through on their own. Hip Hop Lives Through Us  🔗 See it on instagram: We showed up with a missionRecently, I showed up to a session with paint cans in hand, ready to create something with the youth. I didn’t have to say much. The energy was there. The mission was simple: let every spray tell a story.
What struck me most wasn’t just the final product. It was the quiet focus between each burst of color. There was a rhythm in the silence, a flow in the preparation. It reminded me that the loudest moments in Hip Hop aren’t always made of sound. Sometimes, it’s the stillness that hits hardest. Golden Roses — Chapter 1: The Spark  🔗 See it on instagram: Golden Roses Chapter 1 - The sparkIn the first chapter of my Golden Roses mixtape series, there were no moves, just moments. Close-ups. Still hands. Quiet energy. “Sometimes the energy speaks louder than the motion.” That’s how I see it. There’s poetry in stillness. There’s meaning in pause. I believe that sometimes, it’s those in-between moments that define the journey just as much as the big moves. Stillness gives us contrast. It sharpens our awareness of what motion really means especially when it’s rooted in joy. Throwbacks and Timeless Truths I love revisiting older footage, those cypher moments that don't need explanation, just presence. Even in the throwback footage, the message is the same. I’m still that person who dances for the love of music. Still matching the rhythm. Still believing that movement is medicine. More cowbells. More joy. More life.  🔗 see it on Instagram: Hand Styles🔦 Community Spotlight:  Click on Picture to view event details. 🎤🔥 SAVE THE DATE! 🔥🎤 🔗 Spread the wordSave the date for Off Da Hook Jam – Jersey City, a two-day festival celebrating 25 years of NBK family, featuring dance competitions, live graffiti, DJs, and more on September 27 at JC Walls. Final Word From crayons to cyphers, from paint to power, I’ve learned that the real magic is in the process. The moment someone realizes they can create something out of nothing that’s when confidence is born. And for me? That moment never gets old. 📍 Want to Learn More? I teach weekly classes in Jersey City for kids, teens, and adults. To see the schedule or register for a session, visit: 👉 bboybgirllifestyle.com/complete-your-registration.html Follow the journey on Social Media:  Click on Image for Linktree
Updated 5/13/2025
✅ From Scroll to Soul:
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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.
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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...