When people say “hip hop dance,” they often imagine grooves and choreography seen in studios today. But hip hop has deep roots, and three styles in particular — breaking, popping, and locking — helped shape the culture into what it is today.
If you’re a beginner, understanding these styles will not only give you context but also help you feel more confident in class. Let’s break them down.
Breaking is the original hip hop dance style, born in the Bronx in the 1970s. You’ll recognize it from its acrobatic floorwork and powerful energy.
Key elements:
Beginner tip: You don’t need to do flips to start breaking! Practice toprock steps and basic footwork first — they’re the foundation.
Popping originated in Fresno, California in the 1970s and focuses on sharp contractions of the muscles (called “pops” or “hits”). Dancers create an illusion of robotic or animated movement.
Key elements:
Beginner tip: Start small — practice popping your arms or legs to the beat. It’s about control, not speed.
Locking began in Los Angeles with Don “Campbellock” Campbell and later the Lockers crew. It’s fun, funky, and full of personality. Dancers “lock” their joints suddenly, then release into groovy movements.
Key elements:
Beginner tip: Don’t take yourself too seriously — locking is about joy and charisma as much as clean movement.
Many studio classes today fuse hip hop with choreography, but breaking, popping, and locking are part of the roots of hip hop dance. Knowing them:
Do I need to master these before taking a hip hop class?
Not at all! But being familiar will help you pick up steps faster.
Which is best for beginners?
Locking is usually the easiest to start with because it’s fun and high-energy. Popping requires more muscle control, and breaking is more athletic.
Do these styles show up in K-Pop or choreography classes?
Yes! Many K-Pop routines borrow popping isolations, and hip hop choreographers often incorporate breaking or locking-inspired moves.
Breaking, popping, and locking are more than just moves — they’re living parts of hip hop culture. By learning their basics, you’re not just building dance skills, but also connecting to the history and community that made hip hop what it is today.
