Break it down: New sports at the Paris 2024 Olympics

The Paris 2024 Olympics is featuring several

new + newish sports : breaking, skateboarding, sport climbing, surfing, and 3x3 basketball. Let’s explore what you need to know about one of these new events and its rules.

Ah, we can just picture that Olympics podium and those shiny medals now .

Breaking

Breaking (aka breakdancing) is making its Olympic debut after a resounding success in the 2018 Summer Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Rooted in hip-hop culture, breaking originated in the US and dates back to the 1970s.

In Paris, the sport will be split up into separate events for men and women (but the judging criteria will be the same). Here’s what to know:

• The three main elements are top rock, down rock, and freeze. Check out how each of these moves are performed.
• Athletes (aka breakers) compete in a 1x1 format (which is why a competition is often called a “battle”). The breakers take alternate turns or “throw-downs” performing their routines. Each throw-down can last up to 60 seconds.
• The breakers’ throw-downs will be judged on personality, technique, creativity, variety, performativity, and musicality.

Breaking battles will take place on Friday, Aug. 9 and Saturday, Aug. 10 at La Concorde in the heart of Paris.

Ready to bust a move ? Hip hop yourself over to these dance studios to try breaking in Greenville + check out our full guide on where to take a dance class in Greenville .

Artistic Edge Dance Center | 75 Orchard Park Dr., Greenville
You and your kids can learn jazz, contemporary, ballet, tap, hip-hop, pointe, or acro.

West End Dance Company | 3010 E. N. St., Ste. A, Greenville
Adults can learn tap, jazz, and hip-hop.

Adrenaline Dance Fitness | 301 Airport Rd., Ste. C, Greenville
This fitness studio describes itself as “a workout disguised as a party.” You’ll learn hip-hop, pop, alternative, and Latin music combos guaranteed to get your body moving.