Cardboard dance mats are used in the break dance tradition. Breakdance originated on the streets where artists would use old cardboard boxes when dancing. Breakdance involves moves where the dancer is spinning or dancing on the ground, which would be difficult on the uneven surface of the streets. The cardboard offers not only protection from rough sidewalks, but also cushioning for breakdance moves that involve falling or spinning on your head. Make your own cardboard breakdancing mat with household materials.
Things You'll Need:
- Craft Knife
- Corrugated Cardboard Box
- Duct Tape
- Carpet Padding
Cut the corrugated cardboard box open using the craft box. The corrugated cardboard is strong and offers some cushioning. If your box is not big enough to cover your dance area, cut open several boxes.
Lay the cardboard boxes open and flat on the ground. Cut pieces of duct tape and tape the different parts of the box or boxes together to form a flat mat.
Cut a piece of carpet padding that is as big as your cardboard box dance mat. Place the carpet padding in your dance area and put the box on top of the padding. The padding can be removed once you are more adept at breakdancing and no longer require the added protection.
Warnings:
- Always stretch before break dancing to avoid injury. Do not break dance on the street, use the sidewalk or park instead. Use protective gear such as helmets, knee and elbow pads when you are learning to dance.
Writer Bio
Nicole Fotheringham has been a writer since 1997. She was born in South Africa and began as a reporter for the "Natal Mercury" and "Cape Argus" newspapers. Fotheringham has a master's degree in English literature from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
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