Why do people say "break a leg" right before you go perform?

Question

out of all the things you can say, why break a leg?

why not something more encouraging to do well not injure yourself

its weird how they come up with these things

Answer 1

its good luck

if you say good luck thats bad luck

Answer 2

For some reason they think saying good luck will bring bad luck.

Answer 3

cause they want you to fall down and trip in order to break a leg

Answer 4

its an actors term for good luck

Answer 5

so its reversed.

Answer 6

I THINK THEY SECRETLY WANT U TO DO BAD SO TEY TELL BREAK A LEG WHEN PEOPLE TELL ME THAT I SAY KISS IT!!

Answer 7

it's good luck to wish bad luck  

Answer 8

And I passed away when I was playing football.  

Answer 9

It's good luck to say bad luck.

Answer 10

It's for good luck

Answer 11

Well isn't that like good luck or something?

Good Question. Where did that come from lol.

Answer 12

most superstitions don't make sense either, it's ok.

Answer 13

It's just something people say to wish someone good luck.

Answer 14

i know right that's kinda weird