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Breaking Basics4 minutes

Learn the Chair Freeze: A stable foundation in breaking

By Bernhard De LucaUpdated

In a nutshell
  • The Chair Freeze is held by bracing the elbow against the hip crease.
  • The correct weight distribution between the head, hand, and legs provides the necessary balance.
  • Beginners should focus on holding the position instead of forcing advanced leg variations.

The Chair Freeze is the stylish anchor point of your first floorwork sessions. With the right technique, you build a rock-solid base without putting unnecessary strain on your joints.

What you need to get started

  • Warmed up and stretched wrists
  • A non-slip exercise mat or smooth floor
  • Sufficient basic strength in the shoulder girdle
  • Comfortable, not too loose sportswear

Why the right technique beats raw strength

The chair freeze is one of the absolute foundations if you want to shine on the floor in breaking. It is not just a visual highlight at the end of a footwork combination, but it also trains your body tension and sense of balance in a unique way. Many beginners make the mistake of forcing themselves into the position with pure muscle power, which quickly leads to wrist pain or frustration. The key, however, lies in precise weight distribution and the targeted use of leverage.

To keep the freeze stable, you rest your upper body on your bent elbow, which is anchored as a solid pillar in your side. This technique takes the pressure off your wrists and transfers your body weight directly to your strong center. Before you attempt this move, you should ensure that your wrists are well warmed up. A stable stance on the floor is the best foundation. If you are still looking for the right place for your sessions, our guide will help you to find a breakdance training space.

Balance makes the difference: If you anchor your elbow firmly at your side, you hardly need any muscle power for support.
Balance makes the difference: If you anchor your elbow firmly at your side, you hardly need any muscle power for support.

Master the clean Chair Freeze in 4 steps

  1. Place your supporting hand flat

    Get into a squat and place your strong hand flat on the floor. Your fingers should point slightly backwards or to the side to optimally relieve the strain on your wrist.

  2. Anchor your elbow to your side

    Bend your supporting arm and press your elbow firmly into your side, right in the gap between your pelvic bone and your ribs. This point serves as your stable pivot point.

  3. Resting your head for support

    Lean your upper body to the side in a controlled manner until your temple or the side of the back of your head touches the floor. Your head takes on part of your body weight and provides balance.

  4. Lifting your legs in a controlled manner

    Slowly lift your feet off the floor by shifting your weight onto the three-point support of your hand, elbow, and head. First, pull your knees close to your body to maintain your balance.

The most important do's and don'ts for building your profile

Like this

  • Anchor your elbow deep in the hip crease
  • Distribute your weight across three points
  • Use your head as an additional support

Not like this

  • Keep your elbow flat against your ribs
  • Put your entire weight only on your arm
  • Hold your head stiffly in the air

Your path to a stable freeze at a glance

Before training

Preparation

In position

During

After the session

Follow-up

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. The elbow belongs in the soft hollow between the pelvic bone and the rib cage, directly into the lateral abdominal muscles. It sits there like it is in a pocket and will not slip.

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