Breaking is a style of dance that originated in the United States in the 1970s. It took form in the lively block parties in the Bronx, emerging from hip hop culture, and is characterised by acrobatic movements, stylised footwork and the key role played by the DJ and the MC (master of ceremonies) during battles.
International competitions were first held all over the world in the 1990s, popularising the dance form both among hip hop communities and the general public along the way.
Bref overview of the rules
At the Paris 2024 Games, the breaking competition will comprise two events – one for men and one for women – where 16 B-Boys and 16 B-Girls will go face to face in spectacular solo battles. Athletes will use a combination of power moves – including windmills, the 6-step and freezes – as they adapt their moves and improvise to the beat of the DJ’s tracks in a bid to secure the judges’ votes and take home the first Olympic breaking title.
Olympic history
Breaking made its Olympic debut at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires in 2018. Following its outstanding success, breaking has been chosen to feature on the Paris 2024 Olympic sports programme as a new sport, along with surfing, skateboarding and sport climbing.
Events in 2024
B-Girls (women’s)
B-Boys (men’s)
Venue in 2024
La Concorde
International organisation
International federation : World Dance Sport Federation
www.worlddancesport.org/
© Comité International Olympique (CIO) / RUTAR, Ubald