Level Up Your Breakdancing
5 Intermediate Moves to Master Next on Your B-Boy Journey
So you've nailed the basics—your six-step is clean, your top rock is solid, and you can hold a freeze without wobbling. Now you're ready to take your breaking to the next level.
Intermediate moves bridge the gap between foundational techniques and advanced power moves. They add flair, complexity, and style to your sets, helping you develop your unique identity as a b-boy or b-girl.
In this guide, we'll break down five essential intermediate moves that will expand your vocabulary and impress the crowd at your next jam.
Windmill
The windmill is one of the most iconic power moves in breaking. It involves continuously spinning on your upper back and shoulders while swinging your legs in a V-shape.
Pro Tips
- Start in a coiled position with your knees tucked to your chest
- Use your legs to generate momentum, not your arms
- Keep your head off the ground to avoid injury
- Practice the stab motion to maintain your spin
Flare
Inspired by gymnastics, the flare involves swinging your legs in continuous circles around your body while supporting yourself on your hands.
Pro Tips
- Develop strong core and hip flexor strength first
- Keep your legs wide and straight for maximum effect
- Lean your weight from one hand to the other as you swing
- Practice with a spotter or against a wall initially
Airflare
An advanced variation of the flare where the dancer momentarily leaves the ground during the transition between hands.
Pro Tips
- Master the basic flare before attempting airflares
- Explode upward with your supporting arm to create air time
- Keep your body tight and controlled during the aerial phase
- Practice over a soft mat until you build confidence
Headspin
A classic power move that involves spinning on your head while using your hands and body for balance and momentum.
Pro Tips
- Invest in a quality headspin beanie for protection
- Start by finding your balance point in a static position
- Use your hands to control speed and maintain balance
- Build neck strength gradually to avoid injury
Swipes
A dynamic power move where the dancer swings their legs in a circular motion while hopping between hands.
Pro Tips
- Generate power from your hips and core, not just your legs
- Time your hand hops with the swing of your legs
- Keep your body low to the ground for better control
- Practice both clockwise and counterclockwise directions
Training Plan for Mastering These Moves
Monday: Foundation & Windmills
15 min warm-up
30 min windmill drills
15 min core strengthening
10 min cool down & stretching
Wednesday: Flares & Airflares
15 min warm-up
20 min flare progression
15 min airflare attempts
10 min hip flexibility
Friday: Headspins & Swipes
15 min warm-up
20 min headspin balance
20 min swipe technique
10 min neck strengthening
Weekend: Freestyle Practice
20 min warm-up
40 min freestyle sessions
20 min move combinations
15 min stretching
