How to Do Air Swipes in Breakdancing

The air swipe is one of the power moves of break dancing. Upper body strength and strong abs are a key factor in any of the power moves, especially any swiping move. Keep in mind that along with perfecting moves, break dancing is about creating your own style and feeling the rhythm of hip hop music as much as it is about performing stunning flips and drops.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Move your feet in the same direction as the air swipe move. If you are going to kick your legs up to go clockwise, start by moving your legs clockwise.
2. Get down in a crablike position, with your legs spaced a little apart. Have your chest facing upward.
3. Use your left hand first if you are moving clockwise. Start with the right if you favor going counterclockwise. Raise your arm above your head in a swinging motion for momentum.
4. Lift your lead leg as your second hand goes to the floor. Bring that leg to the same height as the other leg's knee. The lead leg should be straight while it is lifting. Shift your following knee into an angle. This will take a lot of upper body strength, especially since your entire body should be held straight in the air now. You won't be in this position for long.
5. Swing around using your upper torso. Rotate your legs while your lead hand comes to the ground and the following hand starts it upward swing. Basically you've thrown your legs in the air and are letting them untwist.
6. Land in the same position you began in. The moment you land the swipe, go into another and then the next one in nice, fluid motions.