For a full introduction to breakdancing, see Mahalo's how to breakdance.

• Breakdancing is a virtuosic and exciting form of dance. While it is also an improvisatory form of dance, there are some basic moves that have been passed down from dancer to dancer and standardized. One of these moves is the 6-Step. Also known as a shuffle, the 6-Step is an important component of a dancer's footwork, the routine he or she performs on the ground. This guide will teach you a safe approach to this breaking basic.

• Breakdancing is an athletic form of dance. If you're new to breaking, consider working with a teacher at a dance studio or gym. If you're on your own, takes things very, very slowly and keep the following preparation tips in mind:

1. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Breakdancing requires a lot of squatting and loose-limbed movements. Be sure you're ready to move without splitting your pants.
2. Wear protective gear. If you're trying on-the-floor moves for the first time, wear knee and elbow pads to protect your joints.
3. Practice on a wood floor or mats. You can't breakdance on carpet. You need a slick surface that allows you to glide and spin.
4. Warm Up. You need to get your muscles warm and your heart pumping before you begin any serious work-out, and breakdancing is a serious work-out.
5. Work out your arms and abs. Most breakdancing power moves and freezes require strong arms and abs. Visit your local gym, and ask for help identifying exercises that will help strengthen your biceps, triceps and abs.
6. Find a breakdancing class. Breaking has been around long enough that it has become institutionalized to a degree. Most large to medium-sized cities will have dance studios which offer breakdancing classes. It's never a bad idea to begin a difficult form of dance with a professional teacher.
7. Listen to Hip Hop. Breaking isn't just an isolated form of dance. It's one of the four elements of hip hop and part of a broader culture. You'll appreciate breaking that much more if you understand where it comes from.

• The 6-Step is one of breaking's essential moves. It's the first thing most dancers do when they transition to the floor. A note of caution, however: If you can't do a push-up or hold the plank position for more than a few seconds, you should not attempt this move. Build up to it by doing plenty of push-ups and crunches to strengthen your abdominals.

1. Start on the floor in a crab position.
   • To get into this position, sit on the floor, plant your feet in front of you, place your hands behind you and lift your hips off the floor. Your weight is now fully supported by your legs and your arms.
2. Count One: Extend your right leg to the front. It should cross slightly in front of your left leg. Stretch your left arm out above your head.
3. Count Two: Extend your left leg back. Both your right and left legs are now straight.
4. Count Three: Take your right leg back. Lower your left hand. You're now in a plank or push-up position.
5. Count Four: Lift your right hand above your head, and put your left leg through—extending it from the back to the front.
6. Count Five: Bend your right leg, and place it behind your left knee. Your left knee should bend when you do this.
7. Count Six: Return to the original crab position.