Break Dancing is a form of dance originating from American urban centers in the 1970s. It is characterized by static arm and leg movements, spins, kicks and improvisation.

Break dancing began in New York City in the early 1970's. Routines are heavily improvised and emphasize creativity and innovation. They consist of four main elements, used to segue into the next. Rhythmic music such as hip-hop and R&B are used to set a beat and tempo for performances.

Perform unique routines using all parts of the body.

Break dancing is always performed on a smooth surface. This surface is often created on pavement by taping together flat pieces of cardboard. There are four basic elements that form the foundation of break dancing: toprock, downrock, power moves and freezes. These elements are generally performed in order, with plenty of room for variation and improvisation. Routines are usually performed to hip hop music, but can be performed to any type of rhythmic music such as soul, R&B, funk, electro or disco. Clothing widely varies, dependent on the preference of the dancer.

Break dancing began in New York City in the early 1970's. Crews would form and battle each other with increasingly complicated and innovative moves. The style gradually spread into mainstream culture through film and television exposure. By the 1990's break dancing had spread throughout the world, helped by U.S. crews teaching methods and techniques to international dancers. Today break dancing is one of the world's most popular and visible forms of dancing. Hundreds of competitions and exhibitions are now held around the world.

Sneakers

Learning proper technique prior to executing any moves is extremely important. Stretching and warming up is also essential.

Break dancers must have a great deal of strength, balance and flexibility. These can be achieved through upper-body weight training and yoga.

Downrock - footwork performed while both hands and feet are on the floor; used as a display of foot speed and control, and as a transition into power moves

Freeze - technique involving the halting of all body motion, often in an interesting or balance-intensive position

Power Move - flashiest and most impressive elements of breakdance; they rely heavily on upper-body strength, flexibility and momentum

Toprock - any string of steps performed from a standing position, relying upon a mixture of coordination, flexibility, style and rhythm; usually the opening move in a dancer's routine, and serves as a transition into more acrobatic maneuvers

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Break_dancing