Krump, short for Kingdom Radically Uplifted Mighty Praise, is a high-energy, expressive street dance style that originated in the early 2000s in Los Angeles. Known for its raw, aggressive movements and emotional intensity, Krump has evolved into a global phenomenon. Whether you're a beginner looking to level up or an intermediate dancer aiming to master advanced techniques, this guide will walk you through the essential moves to take your Krump game to the next level.
1. The Stomp
The Stomp is a foundational Krump move that sets the tone for your performance. It’s all about power and precision. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees slightly and lift one leg, then slam it down with force, transferring your weight into the ground. The key is to make it look explosive while maintaining control. Practice alternating legs and adding variations like double stomps or stomp-turns to add flair.
2. The Chest Pop
The Chest Pop is a signature Krump move that emphasizes upper body control. Begin by standing tall with your arms relaxed at your sides. Quickly contract your chest muscles to create a popping motion, as if your chest is being pulled forward and then snapped back. Combine this with arm movements or sync it with your stomps to create dynamic combinations. The Chest Pop is all about rhythm and timing, so practice it to the beat of your favorite Krump tracks.
3. The Arm Swing
Arm Swings are essential for adding fluidity and aggression to your Krump routines. Start with your arms extended to the sides. Swing one arm across your body with force, then quickly reverse the motion. The key is to make the movement sharp and deliberate. Experiment with different angles and speeds, and try incorporating Arm Swings into your footwork for a more cohesive performance.
4. The Buck
The Buck is a high-energy move that involves jumping and landing in a crouched position. Start by standing upright, then explode into a jump, bringing your knees up toward your chest. As you land, drop into a low crouch with your arms extended forward or to the sides. The Buck is all about power and impact, so focus on making your landing as dramatic as possible. Add variations like spinning mid-air or combining it with stomps for added complexity.
5. The Jabs
Jabs are quick, sharp arm movements that mimic punching motions. They’re a great way to add intensity to your Krump routines. Start with your arms bent at the elbows, fists clenched. Extend one arm forward in a punching motion, then quickly retract it. Alternate arms and experiment with different speeds and angles. Jabs can be combined with footwork or used as accents to emphasize the beat of the music.
6. The Ground Move
Ground Moves are a staple in advanced Krump routines, adding a dramatic, floor-based element to your performance. One popular Ground Move is the "Crab Walk," where you crouch low and move sideways using your hands and feet. Another is the "Knee Drop," where you drop to one knee with force, then quickly rise back up. These moves require strength and control, so practice them slowly at first to build up your stamina and precision.
7. The Freestyle Flow
Once you’ve mastered the individual moves, it’s time to put them together in a freestyle flow. Freestyling is the heart of Krump, allowing you to express yourself and connect with the music. Start by practicing short combinations of your favorite moves, then gradually build longer sequences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own personal style. Remember, Krump is about emotion and storytelling, so let your movements reflect your feelings.
8. The Battle Stance
In Krump battles, your stance is just as important as your moves. A strong Battle Stance exudes confidence and readiness. Stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, knees bent, and arms up in a defensive position. Keep your chest up and your gaze focused. Your stance should be dynamic, allowing you to transition smoothly into your next move. Practice holding your stance while incorporating small movements like foot shuffles or arm jabs to keep the energy alive.
9. The Power Move
Power Moves are the showstoppers of Krump, designed to leave a lasting impression. These include moves like the "Tornado," where you spin rapidly on one foot while swinging your arms, or the "Suicide," where you drop to the ground with dramatic flair. Power Moves require strength, balance, and practice, so take your time to perfect them. Use them sparingly in your routines to maximize their impact.
10. The Emotional Expression
Krump is more than just a dance—it’s a form of emotional release. As you advance, focus on connecting your movements to your emotions. Whether you’re expressing anger, joy, or frustration, let your body tell the story. Practice freestyling to different types of music to explore how your emotions influence your movements. The more you connect with the emotional aspect of Krump, the more powerful your performances will become.
Mastering advanced Krump moves takes time, dedication, and a lot of practice. But with these techniques in your arsenal, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Krump pro. Remember, Krump is about more than just the moves—it’s about the energy, the emotion, and the community. So keep practicing, stay true to yourself, and most importantly, have fun!
