6-step
The
6-step is the foundational move of
breakdancing footwork. The
b-boy uses his arms to support his body above the floor while his legs walk around in a circle.
The 6-step is considered foundational not only because it is the first move breakers learn, but also because it remains the move around which most routines are built even at advanced levels. Many
breakdance moves can begin from the 6-step. The move sets up the direction of
rotation and builds
momentum while imparting body control. The breaker stays low and in contact with the ground through all four limbs, which places him in perfect position for performing other moves. Each of the six distinct steps puts the body in a different orientation which can be used as starting points for other moves. Steps 1/2 and 3/4 (described below) are most often used for launching other moves. Conversely, any move which ends on the ground can be transitioned smoothly back into the 6-step.
The body position after step (2) and step (4) are mirror images of each other. Controlled b-boys look straight ahead constantly and place the feet in the same place for each rotation. The two surest signs of a
newbie breaker are uncontrolled 6-steps that "drift" across the floor in one direction or which inexorably twist the body in one direction (usually evermore to the right for counter-clockwise breakers). The main culprit is usually not bringing the legs around far enough for steps 3 & 4.
While the basic 6-step resembles walking in a circle on the ground, the general form can be heavily 'teched' or modified to allow for variation and style. Techs can reverse the direction of rotation, interlock limbs, incorporate minor flips, twists, and kicks, and more. Nearly anything goes as long as it advances the breaker's individual style.
:
The description assumes clockwise rotation.As the name implies, there are a total of six steps in one rotation of the 6-step. One begins in a
push-up position with the feet spread apart.# The left hand lifts, and the right foot is placed where that hand used to be.# As weight shifts onto the right hand and foot, the left leg is moved up into the crook of the right knee.# The right leg swings around in front of the right hand and comes down so that the breaker's legs are in a crab position. Meanwhile, he switches hands so that the left hand returns to the ground and the right hand flies up.# The left leg now swings around in a wide arc and wraps around the right.# The right leg moves back into its original push-up spot.# Lastly, the left leg pulls back while the right hand comes down to complete the push-up position. The breaker is now back in the starting position and may continue with step 1.
2-step
This is a move done in many different ways. Start out in a push up position and do the first step in a six step, lift your right hand and put your left foot where your hand used to be. Instead of stopping here, turn yourself so you're in a crab soccer position, like in the third step of the six step. Now throw out your right leg and do a chain and ball, a helicopter, or a coffee grinder (depends where you from). Catch your left ankle in the air on you way around and twist and untwist it for style points. When you land you should be in the starting position. It helps if you're flexible when you do the chain and ball. This is very good for getting momentum for other moves.
One Legged
A one legged 6 step is a much more energetic variation on the 6-step where one foot floats in the air throughout the move. Beginning in the same position, the right leg comes up as if to make step#1, but stays airborne as the left leg swiftly hops up to land in the positions of steps 2, 3, and back to 6 the starting point. Alternately, the move can be done with the left foot in the air. The style is often done both ways, one right after the other for one rotation each.
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List of breakdance moves*
Dope Moves 6-step demonstration
