How is Break Dance Scored at the Olympics?

Uncover the scoring system behind break dance competition at the Olympics and learn how judges evaluate performances. Breakers will compete head to head battles.  There will not be a leaderboard.  

Understanding Competitive Breaking Scoring Criteria

Break dance scoring at the Olympics is based on a set of criteria that judges use to evaluate performances. These criteria include technical elements, vocabulary, execution, musicality, and originality.

To understand break dance scoring at the Olympics, it is important to familiarize yourself with these criteria and how they are assessed by the panel of judges. Judges use a slider to compare dancers head to head in breaking battles. 

Technical Elements Judged by the Panel

The panel of judges evaluates various technical elements during break dance performances. These elements include footwork, power moves, freezes, and transitions. Judges assess the quality, precision, and complexity of these technical elements to determine the score.

Each technical element is given a specific weightage, and judges look for mastery and creativity in the execution of these elements. The difficulty level of the technical elements also plays a significant role in the scoring process.

Technique accounts for 20% of the final score. The major focus areas for judging technique are: 

• Athleticism
• Form (lines, angles, and shapes)
• Body control
• Dynamics
• Spatial awareness

Vocabulary in Breaking Competitions

When it comes to break dance competitions at the Olympics, vocabulary plays a crucial role in determining the scores of performers. Vocabulary in break dance refers to the diverse range of moves, transitions, and styles that dancers incorporate into their performances. The more extensive and creative the vocabulary displayed by a dancer, the higher their score is likely to be. Breakers who can showcase a wide array of moves and techniques, while maintaining precision and control, are sure to impress the judges and stand out in the competition. So, for break dancers looking to excel on the Olympic stage, expanding and mastering their vocabulary is key to success.

Vocabulary accounts for 20% of the final score. The major focus areas for judging vocabulary are: 

• Variation
• Quantity of moves
• Repeat

Execution in Breaking Competitions

Execution refers to the overall quality and precision of the performance. Judges evaluate the cleanliness, control, and fluidity of the moves. The execution of technical elements, transitions, and musicality all contribute to the overall execution score. Judges should be able to identify a completed movement before they transition to a new one. 

Execution accounts for 20% of the final score. The major focus areas for judging vocabulary are: 

• Cleanliness
• Minimal to no slips, crashes, or falls
• Consistency of flow
• Composition
• Storytelling (narrative)

Musicality in Breaking Competitions

In addition to technical elements, break dance scoring at the Olympics also takes into account musicality. Judges assess how well dancers interpret the music and express their emotions through their movements. Dancers must be able to quickly change their motion and rhythm to match the music. 

Musicality accounts for 20% of the final score. The major focus areas for judging vocabulary are: 

• Rhythm
• Texture
• Synchronicity
• Accenting

Originality in Breaking Competitions

Artistic expression includes factors such as creativity, originality, and style. Dancers are expected to showcase their unique style and bring their own personality to the performance. The ability to connect with the music and convey emotions through dance is highly valued in the scoring process.

Originality accounts for 20% of the final score. The major focus areas for judging vocabulary are: 

• Improvisation
• Innovation
• Spontaneity
• Personality
• Response

Additional Judging Criteria for Breaking

In addition to the criteria above, judges will observe and compare the physical, artistic, and performative abilities of the dancers. The impact of presentation on the overall score cannot be ignored. Judges consider the overall performance, stage presence, and audience engagement. Dancers who can captivate the audience and leave a lasting impression are more likely to receive higher scores.

Penalties in Breaking Competitions

Penalties in breaking dance competitions play a crucial role in maintaining fairness and upholding the integrity of the sport. Judges may impose penalties for various infractions, such as exceeding the time limit, using illegal moves, or displaying unsportsmanlike behavior. 

There are three levels of penalties in breaking competitions:

• Mild - these penalties are accidental or unintentional such as beginning a round before opponent and accidental physical contact. Mild penalties incur a 3% points deduction to the total score of the judge(s) that presses the penalty button. 
• Moderate - these penalties are non-violent, but intentional. They intimidate or degrade another person and include gestures toward judges, opponents, and the crowd. Moderate penalties incur a 6% points deduction to the total score of the judge(s) that presses the penalty button. 
• Severe - these penalties are intentional and aggressive, violent, or sexual in nature. They include pushing an opponent or getting in the way of an aerial move. Severe penalties incur a 10% points deduction to the total score of the judge(s) that presses the penalty button. 

Sources: 

WDSF Breaking Rules

Explained: Breaking rules, moves and format