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Breaking basics4 minutes

Learn the Indian Step: The top rock basic step in breaking

By Mary De LucaUpdated

In a nutshell
  • The Indian Step is the most important and frequently used basic toprock step in breaking.
  • The movement is based on a rhythmic cross-step of the feet while standing.
  • A bouncy movement in the knees provides the typical urban groove.
  • The step serves as a rhythmic entry into every breaking round before transitioning to the floor.

The Indian Step is the absolute foundation of your standing performance in breaking. With this clear guide, you will master the rhythm and footwork of the most important top-rock basic step in no time.

What you need for your training

  • Flat sneakers with a flexible sole
  • Some space to move around undisturbed
  • Loose-fitting sportswear or streetwear
  • A simple breakbeat in the background

The standing entry into the world of breaking

Before you dare to attempt the spectacular spins on the floor, your path in Hip-Hop and street dance always leads through standing moves. Toprock is the calling card of every b-boy and b-girl. It draws attention to you, establishes your sense of rhythm, and prepares your body for the movements to come. If you want to learn to dance breaking, the Indian Step is the absolute key to this upright dance phase.

Many beginners underestimate these standing elements and want to move straight to the floorwork. However, a solid stance is the foundation for your entire dance style. The Indian Step trains your coordination, strengthens your ankles, and helps you develop a natural feel for the beat. Only when you have mastered this step will your transitions to the floor look fluid and controlled.

The bridge between music and movement

The Indian Step is not about rigidly moving your feet back and forth. The trick lies in the gentle bounce, a springy up-and-down movement in the knees that is precisely tuned to the beat of the music. This helps you lose your stiffness and develop the typically casual groove that characterizes b-boying. Take your time to store this rhythm deep within your body.

Master the perfect Indian Step in five steps

  1. Taking the starting position

    Stand up straight with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees slightly to maintain a stable and flexible stance. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet so you can react quickly.

  2. Cross over with the right

    Take a step forward with your right foot and cross it in front of your left leg. Place the foot down only on the ball, while your left knee bounces slightly. This is the first step on the beat.

  3. Spring back to the center

    Quickly bring your right foot back to the starting position. Push off the floor slightly so that a small, bouncy hop is created. You are now standing stably on both legs again.

  4. Cross over with the left

    Now cross your left foot in front of your right leg. Again, make sure to keep your weight on the ball of your foot and turn your upper body slightly into the movement. Keep your gaze directed forward.

  5. Return to the starting position

    Bring your left foot back to a shoulder-width stance. Use the momentum for a continuous bounce in your knees to pick up the rhythm directly for the next round.

The direct comparison for clean basics

Like this

  • Keep your knees relaxed and springy
  • Keep your weight on the balls of your feet
  • Open and close your arms in time with your steps

Not like this

  • Dancing with locked knees
  • Landing flat-footed on your heels
  • Pressing your arms stiffly against your body

Your checklist for the Indian Step

Before training

Preparation

While dancing

Execution

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. The Indian Step is the basic standing step (toprock), while the Salsa Step is a variation with a lateral emphasis. Both are among the most important standing elements in breaking.

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