How to Develop Your Own Dance Style in Hip Hop & Popping

Sometimes I scroll through Instagram and think, “Everyone is so original… so why do I feel basic?”

Yeah. I’ve been there.

When you’re 12, 14, 16 and training hard in hip hop or popping, it’s easy to copy what looks cool. We all start that way. But at some point, you realize something: clean moves aren’t the same as having your own style.

So let’s talk about how to actually develop your own dance style—without forcing it.

Stop Chasing “Unique”

Real talk? The more I tried to be “different,” the more fake I looked.

Style isn’t something you invent in one training session. It’s something that grows when you:

• Train fundamentals consistently

• Understand music deeply

• Know your own personality

• Stop comparing every 5 minutes

When I focused on hitting cleaner in popping and grooving heavier in hip hop, my style started showing naturally. Not because I forced it—but because I got more honest.

Master Foundations First

I know. It’s not the sexy answer.

But if your basics aren’t strong, your “style” is just messy execution.

In popping, that means:

• Clean hits

• Controlled waves

• Clear stops

• Intentional transitions

In hip hop:

• Groove before tricks

• Bounce that feels natural

• Weight shifts that make sense

Here’s the truth—control gives you freedom. When your body listens to you, your personality can finally come out.

Your Personality Is Your Superpower

I used to think I had to dance aggressive all the time because battles are intense.

But that’s not 100% me.

I’m competitive. Yes.
But I’m also playful. Musical. Sometimes even soft.

When I allowed that into my freestyle, everything changed. Judges started noticing. Not because I was doing more—but because I was doing me.

Ask yourself:

• Are you naturally explosive or smooth?

• Do you feel music emotionally or rhythmically?

• Are you calm under pressure or fiery?

There’s no wrong answer. There’s just honesty.

Train Without Copying

It’s okay to get inspired. I still study dancers I admire.

But instead of copying full combos, I:

• Take one concept

• Remix it in my own way

• Change dynamics

• Switch levels

• Play with timing

Inspiration is healthy. Cloning kills creativity.

Be Patient—Style Takes Time

Your dance style at 13 won’t be your style at 18. And that’s beautiful.

I look at old videos and cringe a little. But I’m proud too. Because I see growth.

Style is built through:

• Bad battles

• Late-night practices

• Wins

• Losses

• Doubt

• Breakthroughs

You don’t find your style. You build it—session after session.

So stop stressing about being “original.” Focus on being consistent. Focus on being real.

Your style is already in you. You just have to train enough to let it show.