Breaking until you collapse is how most beginners start, but education is crucial, and that’s where the right breakdance video steps up to the plate. Expanding your knowledge is just as important as building the discipline to break every day if you want to learn how to breakdance.
But why should you be worrying about watching videos instead of jamming? Let’s dive into why watching the right videos can enable you to level up your breaking skills.
What is a Breakdance Video?
A breakdance video is precisely what you would expect. Whether browsing YouTube, working with a dedicated B-Boy Dojo, or hiring a personal breaking instructor to guide you, videos are there to instruct and entertain.
Although most people assume that breaking videos focus on things like tutorials to help you master your foundation, this isn’t always the case. Many also watch breaking videos to study the other elements of hip-hop culture, including the history of breakdance.
Plus, when you are stuck in a hole, videos can help inspire you and get those creative juices flowing. After all, watching others is just as important as practicing your steps.
How to Use a Breakdance Video to Up Your Game
Breaking isn’t just a sport. It’s a lifestyle. It’s a way to express yourself and show people who you truly are. Of course, everyone’s reasons for jamming are different. Some are just following government advice to get 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, whereas others are looking to compete on the professional circuit.
Whatever your reasons, loading up a breakdance video can serve you in any number of ways, including:
- Upskilling – Direct tutorials are the most popular types of videos because they teach you epic moves, like how to do a windmill.
- Context – What does breaking mean to you? Videos can add context to the breaking world, such as teaching you about the traditions behind names and why breaking is the way it is.
- News – There’s a global scene for breaking, and it’s not uncommon for people to want to know more about it. Whether it’s about the top 10 b-boys or an upcoming event, these videos are a fantastic way of staying in touch with the wider world.
- Inspiration – Some videos are there to inspire. Whether it’s a classic breaking track or stories from those who’ve gone from zero to hero, many videos inspire you to get off the sofa and get moving.
- Entertainment – Finally, sometimes you just want to be entertained. Breaking is supposed to be fun, and if you’re not entertained, you’re unlikely to keep up the discipline to grow as a breaker.
Whatever your goals, you’ll find the breakdance video for you. But what are some of the types of videos that you can choose from, and where should you get started?
5 Breakdance Video Types to Check Out Now
If you’re a beginner struggling to get started, you’re in the right place. Rather than telling you to Google it and explore, we will show you some of the best types of videos to check out now.
With over 25 million Americans using dance as exercise, you’re spoiled for choice. Here are the top breakdance video types to throw up at home now.
1. Breakdance Tutorials
Not at the point where you’re ready to reinvent the wheel? Then breakdance tutorials are your first destination.
Tutorials range from how to breakdance for beginners to specific moves like how to air flare. You’ll get to dance with different instructors, pick up lessons, and add to your arsenal.
Of course, not all tutorials are made equally, so browse and find the style and tone that matches how you like to learn.
2. Breakdance Battles
Battles are where breakers truly show their stuff. Whether it’s two dancers facing off or large eight-man teams, battles have long been the pinnacle of the sport. If you want to enter the competitive breaking scene or see what world-class breaking looks like, battles are the place to be.
Some of the most iconic battles ever seen in breaking include:
- Rock Steady Crew vs. NYC Breakers
- Ata vs. Machine
- Massive Monkees vs. Jinjo Crew
We strongly recommend focusing on contemporary battles and historical ones to get a feel of how far breaking has come.
3. Breakdance Music
Looking for some hot tracks to change up the beat?
The truth about the music in breaking today is that many have criticized the homogenization, with competitors focusing more on points than self-expression. Whether that’s true or not is a matter of opinion, but the beauty of breaking is that there are so many styles to indulge in.
Step outside the box and throw up some classics, mixes, or even something a little wild because fresh breaking needs fresh music.
4. Breakdance Movies
Sometimes, it’s worth sitting down for some good old-fashioned entertainment. The breakdance movies of the 1980s are often credited for bringing breaking to a mainstream audience for the first time. In many ways, they formed the launchpad for today’s scene.
If you’re looking for a movie to load up at home, check out:
- Flashdance (1983)
- Wild Style (1982)
- Breakin’ (1984)
5. Breakdance Events
Ready to witness some earth-shattering moves or some vicious burns between breakers? Some of the most underrated breaks in the industry are the professional events that take the pros to superstardom.
In the past, you’d need to travel to find these events, but the wonders of streaming have meant you can watch them from home.
Moreover, 2024 is an excellent year for watching these events because there’s the tantalizing prize of breaking being an Olympic sport, with all the top events offering spots.
Break Your Way to the Top This Year
Breaking is a dance style that takes a heavy toll on the body. Whether performing complex moves or learning to do a flare, you need the utmost strength and control. But many beginners must remember that strengthening their minds is just as important.
At the B-Boy & B-Girl Dojo, we offer an education from some of the leading teachers in the business. Whether you’re new to the game or have a history of breaking, sign up for our courses and level up your breaking today.
