Breakdance is a street dance style that evolved as part of the hip hop movement in the early 1970s. Before evolving into its present form, breaking was a homogenization of four distinct styles of dance: breaking, dancing, locking, and popping. (Fusion may hold workshops on these styles in the future, depending on
expressed interest.)
Toprock is the name given to any part of a breakdancing routine that is performed principally from a standing position. They are less physically demanding than most downrock moves and are first and foremost a display of style.
Downrock encompasses all moves performed with hands, arms, or a part of the torso in contact with the floor. Downrock is generally much more athletic, acrobatic, and akin to gymnastics.
Battles are events in which breakers form a circle and take turns trying to show each other up through either better style and/or more difficult moves.
A breaker usually begins by toprocking, and then drops to the floor into the foundational 6-step. He can then transition into techs or power moves, before ending back on his feet, contorted into a freeze, or 'injuring' himself with a suicide.
Typical
Lesson Plan: Normally a 90 minute class will be broken down into: Stretching
and Warm up (15 mins), Review and Questions (10 mins), Teaching of
New Techniques (15 mins), Practice with instructors (45 mins),
Stretching and Cooldown (5 mins).
What to Wear: Wear light and loose clothing. Breaking can wear down shoes rather quickly, so wear a pair that's comfortable and you don't mind being scuffed up. When we move onto power moves and freezes, you may want to invest in elbow/knee pads and wrist bands which can be bought for $3-5 at any sports store though they're not necessary.
Tentative Lesson Schedule: Winter quarter will cover the foundational breaking techniques as well as a preliminary introduction to power moves. Depending on class progression, this schedule may be subject to changes in the future.
L1: Toprock & Basic Footwork - Basic standing steps, transitions to the floor and 6-step.
L2: Intermediate footwork & teching - 6 step variations and stylizations.
L3: Handstands, poses & freezes - Setting up and hitting poses.
L4: Introduction to power moves - Explanation of techniques and beginning a move.
L5: Combos & Chains - Linking different sorts of moves together.
L6: Review Session or Workshop - Depending on what class wants to do.
L7: Battle! - Your chance to show how much you've learned!