bboys

B-boys, or breakdancers, are performers who practice breakdancing, a street-dance style that is one of the four original elements of hip-hop culture. The term B-boying is commonly used to denote male dancers, while B-girl refers to female practitioners of the same art.

Breakdancing originated in the Bronx in the early 1970s within African American and Puerto Rican communities. It developed from a blending of funk and soul dance, social dancing, martial arts, capoeira, and gymnastics, and it spread through street cyphers, parties, and battles. The practice grew from freestyle improvisation to choreographed sets performed in crews.

Core elements include toprock (upright rhythmic steps), downrock (floor-based foot work), freezes (statue-like poses), and power moves (acrobatic spins and rotates). Dancers emphasize musicality, style, balance, and athletic control. Battles and cyphers, where dancers take turns showing combinations, are central to the culture.

B-boying is closely associated with hip-hop culture, with famous crews such as Rock Steady Crew and Dynamic Rockers contributing to its development. International scenes emerged in the 1980s and 1990s, leading to global competitions such as Battle of the Year (BOTY) and Red Bull BC One. Dancers have influenced music videos, film, and other dance styles, and continue to educate and innovate within studios and communities worldwide.