Hi all, Adding on to my last video, I’ve worked on ways to change the shape of the move while making it more comfortable and repeatable. I’ve also discovered alternative options from the 8-ball shuffle… It’s a weird part of the journey right now. I’ve studied breaking so much yet I’m aware of the gap between what I know/want and what I can currently do…and it haunts me. There’s an overwhelm every practice to do everything and bring every idea to life and to “be ready”. And it’s an exhaustingly anxious feeling. I have to remember it’s illogical to FEEL (can’t control that) what I SHOULD be able to do after 10 years, when I didn’t gain access to structured breaking like my peers. I think the passion and realization of potential is bigger than my environment, and that’s what pains me. Making miniature goals to improve and finding my own answers with the foundation is most important.

Hey guys, made a go down idea while practicing today. I don’t always have a lot of space it the house but I make do with what I can!

Hey team! I was away on vacation recharging my batteries, which is why this week’s GEM is dropping today on Wednesday instead of Monday. No excuses, let’s get straight to business! Last week we unlocked the hips, but open hips are useless if your upper body is floppy. Today, we unlock the secret to holding every freeze and staying rock-solid during your footwork transitions: The Core Stabilization. Most dancers think a strong core means having a 6-pack and doing 100 sit-ups. But in breaking, your core doesn't need to flex—it needs to resist movement. It needs to act as a solid bridge between your hands and your feet. 🗝️ The Technique: - The Hollow Body Hold: This is the ultimate foundation for every freeze. Lie on your back, press your lower back completely flat into the floor, and lift your legs and shoulders just a few inches. If your lower back arches, your core is turned off. - Active Bracing: Imagine someone is about to punch you in the stomach right before you drop into a freeze. That feeling of tightening your entire trunk (not just sucking your stomach in) is active bracing. - The Shoulder-to-Core Connection: Your core doesn't work alone. To hold a stable freeze, you must push the floor away actively through your shoulders while keeping your core locked. 💡 Why this is a game-changer: 1. Freeze Control: No more wobbling or collapsing at the end of your rounds. A stable core gives you that "snapshot" effect where you stop instantly in mid-air. 2. Lightness on Your Feet: When your core is engaged, your legs feel lighter, making your 6-step or 7-step look effortless. 3. Injury Prevention: A strong, bracing core protects your lower back from the heavy impacts of go-downs and power moves. 🛠️ Today's Quick Challenge: During your session today, try to hold a Hollow Body position for 30 seconds right before you start practicing your freezes. Notice how much more solid your body feels when you enter the freeze. Are you struggling with keeping your freezes solid, or do you feel your lower back arching during footwork? Let me know in the comments! 👇