Power moves in breaking are the centerpieces of routines. These are the moves found in highlight reels across history. The breakdance move commonly known at 1990s doesn’t pertain to a historical period in breaking but a futuristic move that wows the crowds.
Many courses refer to it as a “hand spin,” which is correct, but the 1990s move is what it tends to go by today. If you’re looking to outfit your arsenal with something new to wow a crowd, working out how to do 1990s can seem intimidating.
But once you master your foundation, it’s easier than you think. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about performing 1990s.
What is the 1990s Move?
1990s breakdance moves are technically handspins. This futuristic move is nothing more than a one-handed handstand as a starting point. However, breakers will get into this position and spin as many times as possible, with 360 degrees being classified as a single 1990.
The 1990, a type of spin in practice, is also considered a power move. Many breakers will even chain a 1990 together with other power moves for an incredible routine.
How Do Breakers Transition Into the 1990s Breakdance Move?
Developing your perfect practice formula is essential before properly incorporating this move into any round or set. In particular, learning the art of power flow will enable you to make this move appear effortless.
Some of the earliest transitions into the 1990 came from the six-step, swipe, and power start. Most breakers ended the move in a standing position or a back freeze.
Later, power combos grew more complicated, with headspins, backspins, flares, and halos entering the fray. Older breakers will point to headspins being incredibly trendy from 1988 to 1993.
Finally, to take your breaking to the next level, you’ll need to know how to do 1990s with multiple rotations. Pro breakers usually perform multiple 1990s these days, with the record set at 27 by Cico in 2000.
The History of 1990s Breakdance Moves
It was developed by a breaker called Trac 2 in 1978 or 1979. Most think it originated from the one-hand spins performed in professional gymnastics or a handstand pirouette; several gymnasts perform a similar movement when dismounting from a pommel horse.
However, it took a few years before the 1990s move would make it into the history of breakdance.
Although Trac 2 invented the move, legendary breakers Crazy Legs and Lil Lep would popularize it from 1982 onwards. By 1984, this move became a staple of the scene, with the Dynamic Breakers crew performing it regularly.
If you’ve already seen the 1984 hit Beat Street, you’ll notice that Tiny also performs a 1990 in the film. Typically, a 1990 can be performed clockwise to the left using the right hand. It can also be done the opposite way, depending on the dancer’s dominant side.
Where Does the 1990 Name Come From?
The problem with terminology is it’s not uncommon for breakers to have various names for the same thing. Some names you might come across may technically be correct, but you won’t hear them on the local scene. And that’s the same situation with 1990’s.
The name 1990 didn’t come about until 1980. Credit for the name goes to breaker Ken Swift, who believed the move appeared futuristic. He christened it “1990” at the time based on a similar move to indicate the future.
How to Do 1990s for Beginners
The beauty of ground power is that advanced moves become effortless as you grow in confidence. Chaining your power moves together should become simple once you’ve developed your muscle memory.
Whether you’re learning how to pass prelims or just want to do something cool, it’s important to remember that 1990s are advanced moves requiring strength, balance, and control. Don’t attempt this move until you’ve mastered basics like footwork essentials, and take it slow.
Anyway, here’s your step-by-step guide to the 1990.
Step One – Set Yourself Up
Don’t worry about performing 1990s to music for now. Instead, practice from a starting squat position. Your feet should be positioned close together with your knees bent.
Place your right hand on the ground with your fingers spread.
Step Two – Begin the Spin
The next step is to use your leg to kick off the ground. Be firm with your kick because this is what generates your momentum.
Simultaneously, you’ll use your left hand to push off from the ground and begin the spin. It’s now up to you to use your right hand to stabilize and balance.
The trick is to ensure your right hand is as close to your body as possible with your fingers spread. If it’s too far away, you’ll be unbalanced from the first second, and it’ll be impossible to get your balance.
Step Three – Keep the Momentum Going
Once you’re in the air and spinning, extend your legs outward and keep them straight. If you’ve done it correctly, your body should be parallel to the ground. During your first few attempts, the main challenge will be maintaining your balance, but assuming you’ve made it past this point, you should now focus on the spin.
How much you rotate depends on the momentum generated through the initial kick. You should also engage your core to gain control over the spin.
Step Four – Complete and Transition
A single 1990s move is a complete revolution of 360 degrees. Many top breakers will keep on going through multiple revolutions. However, if you’re new to this move, focus on a single 1990.
The trick to landing gracefully is to focus on a fixed point on the ground and gradually bring your legs down in one smooth motion, with your knees slightly bent. Remember, despite the speed of the spin, you should always be in control. It’s one of the keys to longevity in breaking because this is how you avoid injury.
Upon landing, place your legs on the ground and practice transitioning into whatever move you plan on adding next.
Note that this takes a significant amount of practice to master. Ensure you have proper shoes for breaking and sufficient strength to pull off the move. Never try to jump into an advanced move like this too early, or you could hurt yourself.
Wow the Crowd with 1990s Breakdancing Today
Advanced moves require advanced instruction to help you control your moves. Breaking at home is one thing, but working with an experienced instructor will allow you to progress faster.
At the B-Boy & B-Girl Dojo, we offer a range of courses designed for beginners and veterans alike, delivered by experienced breakers. Sign up for the dojo, and you’ll learn everything from fantastic new moves to tips on avoiding injury and reversing knee pain. Check out our courses to learn more today!
