Jumpstyle

What is Jumpstyle?

Jumpstyle is a dance and music style where people perform quick, rhythmic jumps and kicks, usually to hard electronic tracks. The movement is mostly in the legs, while the upper body stays fairly rigid. Anyone can dance jumpstyle, and it is often done solo, with a partner, or in small groups. The dance is popular at parties, in clubs, and in online videos, with dancers showing off their skill and creativity.

Where does Jumpstyle come from?

Jumpstyle began in Belgium and the Netherlands in the late 1990s, growing out of the European hard dance scene. Early artists in Belgium helped give the dance its name and identity. The style spread to Germany and other parts of Europe in the early 2000s, becoming more popular as DJs and producers from these countries experimented with its sound. By the mid-2000s, jumpstyle had become widely known, with chart hits and international exposure.

How is Jumpstyle danced?

The dance is marked by energetic jumps, sharp kicks, and spins, all timed closely to the music. Dancers keep their upper bodies mostly still, focusing on precise, quick footwork. Moves can be performed alone, with a partner (called duojump), or in groups. There are several styles within jumpstyle, such as oldschool, hardjump, ownstyle, and freestyle, each with its own approach to steps and combinations.

The music of Jumpstyle

Jumpstyle music is a form of hard electronic dance, influenced by genres like hardstyle, gabber, and techno. The tracks are fast, usually between 140 and 150 beats per minute, and feature strong, steady beats. Over time, the music has included elements like distorted basslines and melodic synths. Some later tracks blend in sounds from electro house and other hard dance genres.

Costume and what is carried

There is no set costume for jumpstyle. Dancers often wear comfortable streetwear, such as hoodies and sneakers, which allow for free movement. Merchandise with jumpstyle logos is common, especially among dedicated fans. The focus is on movement, so clothing is chosen for ease and personal style rather than tradition.

When and where Jumpstyle is danced

Jumpstyle is danced at clubs, festivals, and parties, but it is also a big part of online culture. Many competitions happen through video submissions or live streams, letting dancers from different countries take part. In Belgium and Russia, live tournaments have been held. The dance is often learned and shared through online communities and social media.

Styles of Jumpstyle

There are several ways to dance jumpstyle, including oldschool, hardjump, ownstyle, and freestyle. Some dancers focus on technical precision, while others add their own flair. In the 2020s, a new style called Yabujincore, led by Lithuanian rapper Yabujin, brought jumpstyle to new audiences on platforms like TikTok. Group performances and duojumps (two-person routines) are also popular.

What Jumpstyle means

Jumpstyle has built a strong subculture, with dedicated groups, online forums, and competitions. It reached its peak popularity in the mid-2000s, then found new life online in the 2020s. The dance is a way for people to connect, compete, and express themselves, both in person and through digital platforms. It is especially popular among young people in Europe and has inspired its own music, fashion, and online trends.

Questions people ask about Jumpstyle

Good reading and sources

• Jumpstyle on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Jumpstyle on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by Ghungroo