Early Breakdancing
Breakdancing began to emerge at the time when street gangs were abundant and aggressive. Gang members learned to use breakdancing skills as a substitute for violence, engaging in dance battles instead of physical fighting. Original breakdancing moves consisted mainly of fancy footwork and body freezes, with less intricate tricks such as head spinning. Early breakdance moves actually resembled defensive martial arts moves, as gang members had taught themselves fancy moves to defend themselves during rival attacks. These moves probably evolved into what we know today as "popping."Dancers later started adding smoother steps and body movements, forming a true dance style. Breakdancing soon gained popularity in disco and dance clubs. "Locking" soon became an important part of the dance style, allowing dancers to expand their dancefloor routines.
Breakdancing Today
As breakdancing further evolved, dancers began placing more emphasis on groundwork with stylized leg movements, commonly known as "downrock." Soon, breakdancers were adding spectacular moves such as handgliding, backspinning, windmilling, and headspinning: ground moves that comprise breakdancing as we know it today.Breakdance gained worldwide popularity during the 1980's and 1990's. Breakdancers began to be incorporated into movies and theater productions. Today, breakdancing and hip-hop classes are taught in dance studios around the country.
