What is the connection between Cheerleading, Tumbling and Hip-Hop Dancing?

Breakdancing to Tumbling 

Breakdancing, a core element of hip-hop, has a strong connection to tumbling. Moves like:

Handstands: Common in both breakdancing "freezes" and cheerleading tumbling.

Cartwheels and variations: These are foundational in both disciplines. Breakdancing incorporates variations with stylistic flair.

Floorwork: Breakdancing heavily utilises floorwork, which shares similarities with some tumbling passes.

Power Moves: While elite cheer tumbling doesn't perfectly replicate power moves like windmills or flares, the underlying principles of body rotation and momentum are similar.

Acrobatic Elements

• Both hip-hop and cheerleading incorporate acrobatic elements.
• The emphasis on strength, flexibility, and control is shared.

​General Movement Qualities

• Dynamic Movement: Both styles emphasise dynamic, explosive movements.
• Body Control: Both require a high level of body control and awareness.

Where the Differences Lie

Stunting:

Cheerleading stunting (lifts, pyramids) is largely unique to cheerleading. While hip-hop might have partner work, it doesn't involve the same complex aerial manoeuvres.

Stylization:

Hip-hop emphasises individual expression and improvisation, while cheerleading routines are highly choreographed and synchronised.

Although cheerleading routines can contain hip-hop dance sections, they will be choreographed hip-hop, not freestyle.

​Find out more about Hip-Hop moves and more

In Essence

• Tumbling and breakdancing share a foundation in acrobatic movements.
• Cheerleading draws on hip-hop's dynamic movement qualities, particularly in its dance sections.