Hip Hop Dance has become a significant part of mainstream culture over the last few decades. Read on for everything there is to know about hip-hop dancing.
What is Hip Hop Dance?
What is hip-hop dancing? It’s a form of street dance that began as a freestyle dance, that uses body movement to create rhythm while performing hip-hop music.
History of Hip-Hop Dance and Culture
Hip-hop dance history dates back to the late 1970s in the Bronx, New York. Like now, young people were dealing with poverty and crime.
Youngsters wanted an outlet to express themselves and escape reality. They created art forms like graffiti art, street fashion, breakdancing, and rapping. These elements are what makeup hip-hop culture today.
Why Do People Like Hip Hop?
Many people enjoy hip-hop because it allows them to express themselves through movement and music. But what is a hip-hop dance style, and how is it different from other styles of dance? Read on to find out.
Hip Hop vs. K-Pop Dance
Hip-hop dance originated in the United States in the 1970s, while K-pop dance (short for Korean pop) is a form of pop music originating in South Korea.
Hip Hop vs. Jazz Dance
Jazz dancers tend to use more fluid arm movements than hip-hop dancers do, and also use more floor patterns.
Hip Hop vs. Street Dance
Street dancing is also associated with African American culture, though this type of dance can also include elements of modern dance steps, like popping and locking.
Hip Hop vs. Urban Dance
Urban dance is heavily influenced by modern pop culture and street culture and is often characterized by its fast pace and flashy nature.
Hip Hop vs. Breakdance
Hip hop dancers are known for their fluid movements, often characterized by sharp turns and drops to the ground. Breakdancers tend to have more rigid motions.
Old vs. New Style Hip Hop Dance
Old-school hip-hop dancers were known for their smooth moves and flashy style—they were seen dancing to songs like “Dancing Machine” by The Jackson Five. Hip-hop culture has evolved into more complex dance styles.
What Are the Benefits of Dancing Hip Hop
Here’s a list of some of the benefits associated with dancing hip-hop:
It Helps You Lose Weight
Dancing burns calories! Studies show that hip-hop dancers lose weight faster than those who don’t dance.
It Improves Your Balance and Coordination
Hip-hop dancers need to be able to move quickly and stay balanced, improving coordination and balance.
What are the Characteristics of Hip Hop Dance
Hip-hop dance, what is it? Here are the most common features:
Individual Expression
Hip-hop dancers use their bodies to convey meaning, emotion, and character.
Collaboration
When dancing hip hop, you must work together to create cohesive work that shows off individual skills.
Dance Moves that Emphasize Rhythm
The dancers love working with music and incorporating rhythms into their movements whenever possible!
Hip Hop Dance Styles
The most common hip-hop dance styles include:
Breakdancing
It features acrobatic moves, including headspins, handstands, and freezes. Breakdancing is often associated with rap music.
Freestyle
The dance style is characterized by loose body movements and freestyle rhyming lyrics.
Krumping
In this dance, the dancers tend to use their bodies in ways that appear violent or chaotic but are carefully controlled.
Locking
Locking focuses on technical precision with smooth movements that seamlessly flow together without pauses between steps or turns.
Popping
Popping is another popular form of hip-hop dance characterized by fast movements with the feet and hands.
How Can You Dance Better at Hip Hop
If you’re looking for some tips on how to dance better, here are some great ideas:
- Listen to music with a strong beat and practice moving along with it.
- Get out there and dance! Get involved in local dance groups or clubs.
What Is the Easiest Hip Hop Dance Style to Learn?
Popping will be a good choice if you’re looking for something easy to pick up. If you want to try something harder, try locking.
FAQs About Hip Hop Dancing
What type of exercise is hip-hop dance?
Hip-hop dancing is a form of aerobic exercise.
What are the disadvantages of hip-hop dancing?
Hip-hop dancing can look more aggressive than other dances, which may turn off people who are more traditional in their tastes.
Which is better for a beginner: hip-hop or jazz dance?
If you’re new to dance, try starting with jazz instead.
What is one thing that makes hip-hop unique?
The major difference between hip-hop and other dance styles is the emphasis on movement.
What technical skills do great hip-hop dancers possess?
Great hip-hop dancers have good control over their bodies to perform complicated moves.
How long does it take to learn hip-hop dancing?
It depends. You can learn the basics in just a few months.
Can you teach yourself to dance hip-hop?
Yes! If you want to learn how to hip-hop dance, there’s no better way than just getting out there and doing it.
How to improve my hip-hop dance technique and execution?
The best way to improve their technique is by attending a few classes at a local studio or through online tutorials.
What do you learn at a hip-hop dance class?
You’ll learn how to follow choreography and coordinate with others.
How much hip hop dance classes cost?
The price will vary depending on the location and instructor.
Is Hip Hop Dance for You?
Whether you have no experience and are looking for a fun way to get into shape, enroll in our hip-hop choreography dance classes today to take your skills to the next level.