Krump isn’t just a dance—it’s raw emotion, explosive energy, and a battle cry for self-expression. Born from the streets of Los Angeles, this high-intensity style has taken over global stages, TikTok challenges, and underground cyphers. Ready to unleash your inner beast? Here’s how to dive into Krumping like a pro.
1. Understand the Roots of Krump
Krump (Kingdom Radically Uplifted Mighty Praise) emerged in the early 2000s as a rebellious, spiritual outlet for Black communities in LA. It’s tied to clowning but evolved into a fiercer, more aggressive form. Watch documentaries like Rize or battles from BattleFest to absorb its culture.
2. Master the Foundational Moves
Krump thrives on sharp, exaggerated motions. Start with these basics:
- Chest Pops: Isolate your ribcage, then thrust it forward explosively.
- Arm Swings: Whip your arms in controlled but wild motions (think "striking through air").
- Stomps: Channel anger or joy into heavy footwork—make the ground shake.
- Jabs & Punches: Fake combat moves syncopated with beats.
Pro Tip: Drill these in front of a mirror to clean up your angles.
3. Train Your Freestyle Mindset
Krump is 90% improvisation. Practice freestyling to:
- Fast beats (150+ BPM) to build stamina.
- Emotional triggers—dance to rage, joy, or frustration.
Join local cyphers (even virtually) to feed off others’ energy.
4. Gear Up for Battle
Your outfit fuels your attitude. Opt for:
- Baggy pants or shorts for unrestricted movement.
- Knee pads (trust us, floorwork gets intense).
- Face paint or bold makeup to amplify expressions.
5. Learn from the Legends
Study icons like Tight Eyez (Krump’s co-founder), Miss Prissy, or Japan’s Badd Machine. Analyze their battles on YouTube—their storytelling through movement is next-level.
6. Enter the Battle Circle
Krump is competitive but communal. To start battling:
- Attend open sessions at studios like Millennium or The Kinjaz Dojo.
- Respect the cypher’s unwritten rules (e.g., no touching, keep it playful).
- Use social media hashtags like #KrumpDaily to find virtual battles.
7. Push Your Limits
Krump is about growth. Record your sessions, experiment with slow-mo or hyper-speed variations, and most importantly—let go. The "beast" isn’t about perfection; it’s about authenticity.
"Krump is the language of the unheard. When words fail, your body screams." — Tight Eyez
Now hit play on a heavy bass track, and let your energy erupt. The floor’s yours.
Written by: Jae Miles, street dance coach and founder of BeastMode Dance Co.
