So you want to learn how to breakdance? Welcome to one of the most dynamic, creative, and physically rewarding art forms in the world. Breaking isn't just about impressive power moves and flashy footwork—it's about self-expression, musicality, and building confidence one step at a time.

This guide will walk you through five foundational moves that every b-boy and b-girl should master. These building blocks will give you the vocabulary to start creating your own combinations and developing your unique style.

1

Toprock

The Foundation of Your Stand-Up Game

Toprock is your standing footwork—the first thing people see when you start your set. It's how you express the music before you hit the floor.

  1. Start with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent
  2. Step forward with your right foot, then bring your left foot to meet it
  3. Step back with your right foot, then bring your left foot back
  4. Add some arm movement and body sway to match the rhythm
  5. Practice transitioning weight smoothly between steps

Pro Tip: Don't just go through the motions—feel the music. Your toprock should be a conversation with the beat.

Visual Cues:

Keep your movements relaxed and rhythmic. Watch yourself in a mirror to check your posture and flow.

2

6-Step

The Essential Footwork Pattern

The 6-step is the fundamental building block of floorwork in breaking. It teaches coordination, timing, and transitions.

  1. Start in a crouched position with both hands and feet on the floor
  2. Kick your right foot through to the left side, bending your left knee
  3. Shift your weight and swing your left foot around to the front
  4. Bring your right foot forward between your hands
  5. Swing your left foot around to the back
  6. Finally, bring your right foot back to complete the cycle

Pro Tip: Practice slowly at first, focusing on clean transitions. Speed will come naturally with muscle memory.

Visual Cues:

Keep your hands planted firmly as your feet move around them. Imagine drawing a circle with your movement pattern.

3

CCs (Coffee Grinders)

The Classic Circular Move

Also known as the "Coffee Grinder," this move involves swinging your leg in a circular motion while supporting yourself with one hand.

  1. Start in a low squat position
  2. Place your right hand on the floor between your feet
  3. Lift your left hand and swing your right leg under your right arm
  4. As your right leg swings through, hop with your left foot
  5. Complete the circle by bringing your right leg around and returning to starting position
  6. Repeat continuously, switching directions

Pro Tip: Keep your supporting arm slightly bent to absorb impact and maintain control throughout the rotation.

Visual Cues:

Imagine your leg is drawing a perfect circle on the floor around your hand. The smoother the circle, the better the move looks.

4

Baby Freeze

Your Introduction to Freezes

The Baby Freeze is the foundational freeze that introduces you to balancing on your hands while supporting your weight on your upper body.

  1. Start by placing both hands on the floor, shoulder-width apart
  2. Position your right knee on your right elbow and your left knee on your left elbow
  3. Lean forward slightly, lifting your feet off the ground
  4. Engage your core to maintain balance
  5. Hold the position for a few seconds before gently lowering

Pro Tip: Look at where your hands are placed rather than at the floor—this helps with balance and spatial awareness.

Visual Cues:

Your body should form a triangular shape with the floor. Keep your head up and your back relatively straight.

5

Back Rock

Connecting Toprock to Footwork

The Back Rock (or Backstep) is a crucial transition move that helps you flow from toprock to floorwork seamlessly.

  1. From your toprock, step back with your right foot
  2. Bend your knees and lower into a semi-crouched position
  3. Rock your weight backward onto your right foot
  4. Simultaneously, swing your left leg forward and up
  5. Reverse the motion to return to standing or transition into floorwork
  6. Practice both sides for ambidextrous movement

Pro Tip: Use your arms for momentum and balance. The Back Rock should feel like a pendulum motion—smooth and controlled.

Visual Cues:

This move is all about the "rocking" motion. Practice the weight transfer until it feels natural before adding speed.

Putting It All Together

Congratulations! You've now got five fundamental breakdancing moves to practice. Remember that breaking is a journey—not a destination. Progress comes with consistent practice, patience, and most importantly, passion.

Start by mastering each move individually, then begin connecting them. Try transitioning from toprock to a back rock, then down into your 6-step. Add CCs for flair and finish with a baby freeze.

Don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle. Every legendary b-boy and b-girl started exactly where you are now. Most importantly, have fun, respect the culture, and let the music guide your movement.

See you on the dance floor!