How to Dance Hip Hop

Young, beautiful girl dancing hip-hop studio series

Hip hop dancing is far more intricate than other traditional dances. Hip hop dances are primarily based on very accurate steps, keeping in time with sometimes complex rhythms. Many people view hip hop as a very advanced style of dancing, so it is not a recommended style for beginning dancers.

Nevertheless, there are millions of people who are fascinated with the style and strive to master it. Just like any other talent, only practice and dedication will result in mastering hip hop dancing. However, dancers must practice a correct style and form, or all of their practice will amount to nothing.

Here are some basic beginning tips for hip hop dancing.

Practice in a dance studio

This may not be possible for many people, but it is highly effective. I full-body mirror won't be enough for hip hop dances because the dances are so volatile and require a lot of space. Dance studios provide plenty of room with full-body mirrors on both sides of the room that stretch from one end of the room to the other end. However, if a dance studio is not an option, obtain a full-body mirror and practice from a distance. The extra distance away from the mirror will allow dancers to move more freely.

Practice one part at a time

This includes foot work, hand work, body movement and dance steps. Some hip hop dance choreographies have many steps; therefore, dancers need to learn the dance in steps. Unless the dancer is experienced, he will need to practice the feet and hand movements separately.

Dancers should pay extra attention to their feet. The feet are an important aspect of many hip hop dance moves. Most dance moves involve moving the feet in a repetitive motion to the side. For example the moonwalk involves elevating one foot while the other gives an illusion of gliding backwards.

Slowly increase the dance move's speed. This not only looks pretty, but it is also a good practice.

Practice different types of hip hop

There are many types of hip hop dances. Each type almost focuses on one body part, such as the feet, hands, upper body, arms, and head. A great hip hop dance choreography incorporates many different types of hip hop dances. Therefore, dancers should broaden their knowledge of dance types.

Hip hop dances are primarily based on very accurate steps