Cutting in Breaking: How to Master This Essential Footwork Move

Introduction

Cutting, also known as the "cut step" or "cut move," is a fundamental footwork technique in breaking (breakdancing). This dynamic move is essential for b-boys and b-girls to master as it forms the basis for many more complex footwork patterns. Cutting involves quick, precise movements of the feet, creating a sharp, cutting motion that adds flair and style to a breaker's routine. As a beginner-level move, cutting is often one of the first footwork techniques taught to aspiring breakers, making it a crucial stepping stone in developing a solid foundation in breaking.

Video Demonstration

Dance History

The cutting move emerged as part of the early breaking vocabulary in the 1970s when breaking was developing in New York City, particularly in the Bronx. As breaking evolved from its street dance roots, footwork became increasingly important, and cutting established itself as a fundamental technique. While there isn't a specific creator attributed to the cutting move, it naturally developed as breakers sought ways to transition smoothly between different elements of their dance and add style to their footwork.

Step By Step Instruction

Start in a squatting position with your hands on the ground for support.
Shift your weight onto your left hand and right foot.
Quickly slide your left foot forward and to the left.
Immediately bring your right foot back and to the right.
Shift your weight to your right hand and left foot.
Slide your right foot forward and to the right.
Bring your left foot back and to the left.
Repeat steps 2-7, alternating sides to create a continuous cutting motion.

Tips For Learning

Practice the basic six-step move to build a strong foundation for footwork.
Focus on keeping your core tight and your movements controlled.
Start slowly to perfect the technique, then gradually increase your speed.
Use your arms for balance and to add style to your cutting.
Practice transitioning in and out of the cutting move from other breaking elements.
Watch experienced breakers perform cutting to understand its flow and integration into routines.

Conclusion

Mastering the cutting move is an essential step in your breaking journey. This foundational footwork technique not only adds style and flair to your dancing but also serves as a building block for more advanced moves. With consistent practice and attention to detail, you'll soon be incorporating cutting seamlessly into your breaking routines, enhancing your overall performance and setting the stage for more complex footwork patterns.

More Breaking Dance Moves

If you liked the Cutting move, these moves build on the same floor-based footwork foundation:

Mastering the 6 Step: The Foundation of Breakdancing Footwork — The 6 Step is the most essential footwork pattern in breaking and the strongest base for understanding how to flow between cuts and transitions on the floor.
Mastering the CC: A Fundamental Breaking Move — The CC uses the same squatting, weight-on-one-hand position as cutting, and the two moves link naturally into each other within a footwork combo.
Mastering the 3 Step: A Breaking Footwork Move for B-Boys & B-Girls — The 3 Step builds on the same alternating weight-shift mechanics that cutting relies on, making it a logical next footwork pattern to add.
Mastering the 4 Step: A Fundamental Breaking Move — The 4 Step shares the low squatting base and leg-alternating rhythm of cutting, and both moves are frequently chained together in beginner footwork sequences.