Practice everywhere
Hip hop may be the most popular form of dance today, but it certainly isn't the easiest. While it may seem like it's all about breaking, popping and locking, dancers work hard for the many different stunts and tricks that require extreme strength, flexibility, agility and creativity.
See why hip hop dancers inspire us with all the hard work they put into their craft.
Agility
Just a casual handstand and freeze on the edge of a pool because a good hip hop dancer knows: Every place is a great practice place.
Pressure
Agility is key, especially when you're bent over backwards with a view of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge.
Location is just a word
If you're a break dancer, a crowd will always be around you, so the added pressure is real
Spin It
Practice makes perfect, and you have to practice everywhere you can, even at the gym.
It takes incredible coordination to spin in the floor.
Jump It
One limb ever so slightly out of place and you can be seriously injured.
Jumping isn't just for cheerleaders and ballerinas.
Flexibility Is A Must
Hip hop dancers need to have some serious air.
Like all dancers, B-boys and B-girls need to be flexible.
Check This Out
The more flexible, the more dramatic the stunt.
Tippy Toes
See, we told you being bendy makes for a cool trick.
Balance
Just like ballet, B-boys and B-girls have to dance on their tippy toes, too
Mix
And balance there for a really long time.
Patience Is Virtue
And sometimes they even mix with ballet, because as a hip hop dancer, it's important to understand all dance forms.
It's not all about tricks, either.
Innovation Is Key
Being an expert pop-and-locker takes major muscle isolation and patience.
You have to get creative, too. Especially when battling other dancers.
Innovation Is Key
Movement must be innovative.
You have to get creative, too. Especially when battling other dancers.
Style
Movement must be innovative.
And sometimes, that includes doing a headstand with a rose in your mouth.
Age Is Just A Number
Because, why not?
Ability is not defined by age.
Some of the best hip hoppers are youngsters