How to Avoid Injury While Break Dancing

Break dancing is a very physical form of dance. Not only are you using almost every muscle in your body, you're also doing feats such as handstands, body drops and flips. Injuries resulting from break dancing range from abrasions to fractures and head traumas.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Stretch and warm up well before break dancing. Breaking dancing utilizes many different muscle groups so diligently stretch the arms, legs, hips, back and neck. Jump around and get your heart rate up so you can get blood flowing to the muscles.
2. Practice within your range of skill with an experienced instructor supervising. Progress slowly, as you build strength your skill level will naturally increase.
3. Dance on a thick mat or wood floor. Stay away from concrete and carpet. If you only have a carpeted area to work on, put down a cardboard mat and secure it down so it won't slip.
4. Use knee pads, elbow pads, wrist supports and back supports when practicing. Wear a helmet or a hat with thick padding for heads spins.
5. Keep the dance floor clear. Practice away from large objects, such as furniture, and give yourself plenty of space away from any walls.
6. Warm down after practice. This will minimize soreness. Stretch the muscles again, and move around slowly until your heart rate slows.

Tips & Warnings

• A consultation from a physician is recommended before you begin break dancing.
• Seek professional medical attention if you have a serious or persisting injury.