[SL1Ck]

i havnt actually made a video of it yet, but i practice infront of the mirror and even though i am in experianced, i know something isnt right. I got the step by step video for basic toprock, and i followed the steps to a T, but for some reason when i add on the arm part, i do it like the video says, but instead of looking like dancing, i look like i am just flopping around. Are there any secrets anyone could let me in on if you have had this problem, if i get it to where i dont look absolutly rediculous i will make a video and have you guys critique me, but right now its so bad that i would just be making everyone piss themselves lo.

[electron]

try changing the strength with which you move your arms - if you're doing it super hard, loosen up , if you're loose, tighten up

remember with toprock/ uprock... bboying started off as a fighting kind of dance, inspired a fair bit by the kung fu films .... toprock was partially about " get out of my face, and out of my space" so try imagining that you're up in somebody else's face when you're doing it and get that kind of attitude. You can also try imagining that you're a boxer, kind of dodgy... sometimes that helps.

THe movement can also come from the shoulders and upper body , as opposed to just swinging your arms - try keeping your arms and elbows tight, make fists or keep your hands half flexed , then try the movement again , aking it come more from your chest or your shoulders - try leaning in to it slightly, push your hips out and think... bruce lee... bruce lee...

hope that helps somewhat

and if you want to email me a clip , i'll watch it and critique you without laughing my pants off... i promise

[SL1Ck]

thanks a lot man, i will do it once i get the program on my comp for our camera.

[electron]

cool , when you're ready to send it, just pm me and i'll send you my email

[EngynNumbr9]

To add my two cents...

When you toprock - even just when you're dancing - you must feel the music. Sure you can toprock without music, but I suggest to throw on a beat that you really feel for, and then dance, letting the music take control of your body.

Also, watching the step by step video gave you a basic understanding for toprocking; now develop it into something you feel comfortable with. The problem with most step by step video is... *drum line*... not everyone can move the same. If you have the basics down, work with what you have and then develop it into something you feel is you. Like I have said before, dancing is about your own self expression - either from your personality or attitude, dancing is a pantomime of your own uniqueness. Emphasize on that, and you'll find yourself dancing in no time!

Anyhow, I'd like to help you critique your clip when you have chance, PM me when you have it completed; if you don't mind of course.

Engyn.

PS - I'd give you a run down on technical suggestions, but Electron took care of that; besides, I'm dead tired after dancing... dang new sets draining me!

Engyn.