How to shed your humanity and master the art of botting
In short: To master the robot, you must first abandon the fluidity of human movement. It is not about being loose; it is about precision, isolation, and the deliberate illusion of mechanical stiffness. Learn the fundamental techniques of robotic walking and body control to transform your dance.
The essence of botting, also known as the robot, lies in extreme stiffness. Unlike many street dance styles that rely on fluid, loose motions, botting requires you to move as if you are not human at all. The goal is to eliminate natural human grace in favor of mechanical precision. While some 'hitting' can be used, it should not be overdone, as a true robot moves with a distinct, programmed cadence. The technique relies on a specific, rigid posture that rejects all natural looseness.
The foundation of a routine begins with the walk. You can alternate between regular robotic steps and slow-motion walks to create an unreal, uncanny effect. The key is to avoid rushing; moving too quickly risks breaking the illusion and making you appear human again. To enhance the effect, you can integrate body isolations, moving specific parts of your anatomy independently while maintaining the overall robotic character. You can transition between these different walking speeds seamlessly to keep the performance engaging.
True mastery comes from moving one part of the body at a time. A successful sequence involves distinct stops for the head, neck, torso, and arms. For example, a dancer might execute a series of stops—right arm, left arm, head, then neck—ensuring each movement is isolated. You can even incorporate a 'retraction' effect, where you move slightly forward and then abruptly stop or move back, as if hitting an invisible wall. By layering these stops and varying the speed of your walks, you create a unique, mechanical routine. A specific movement pattern involves using your right arm followed by your left arm. You can also execute a sudden back and forth motion by using your arms to move up on the seventh beat of a count.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Do the Robot aka Botting | Street Dance
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