Breaking, often referred to as breakdancing, is much more than just a dance style—it’s a cultural expression that traces its roots back to the streets of New York in the 1970s. The original B-Boys and B-Girls coined the term “Breaking” to describe the dynamic moves they performed during the breaks in a DJ’s track. By using this term, they paid homage to the dance’s origins and the raw, improvisational spirit that defined it. The Olympics have chosen to honor this heritage by adopting the term “Breaking” for the competition, helping to preserve its authenticity and cultural significance.
Breaking quickly evolved from its humble beginnings at block parties to becoming a global phenomenon by the 1980s, with legendary crews like Rock Steady Crew and the New York City Breakers leading the charge. These pioneers helped shape the moves and techniques that you’ll see on the Olympic stage.
The sport itself is a blend of intricate footwork, known as top rock, and floor movements, called down rock. Breakers also incorporate thrilling tricks, known as power moves, which involve impressive twists and spins, along with “freezes” where dancers hold gravity-defying poses using their hands or heads for support. One of the most iconic freezes is the ‘baby freeze,’ where dancers balance on their hands while tucking their knees in close to their bodies.
So if you want to witness this electrifying mix of athleticism, artistry, and culture, head down to La Concorde tomorrow to catch Breaking’s debut on the Olympic stage.
The Paris 2024 Olympics will mark the debut of breaking (commonly known as breakdancing) as an Olympic sport. This inclusion is part of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) effort to modernize the Games and attract a younger audience. Breaking was first introduced to the Olympic program after its successful trial run at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires.
The breaking competition in Paris will feature 32 athletes (16 men and 16 women), who will compete in head-to-head battles. The judging will focus on criteria such as technique, creativity, style, and musicality, reflecting the sport’s roots in hip-hop culture.
The decision to include breaking has generated excitement, as well as some debate, within the sports community. Supporters argue that it will bring a fresh, dynamic element to the Games, while critics question whether it fits the traditional Olympic model.
Breaking’s debut in Paris is a significant moment for both the Olympic Games and the global breaking community, as it brings a new, urban flavor to one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.