The Art of Capoeira

I have been hesitant to write about this yet because it’s been such a great experience it seems hard to convey in writing, but I'm going to give it a try. I started to attend Capoeira classes, now this is already the tricky part, trying to explain what it is – or if you’ve heard of it, all the better. Historically speaking, very briefly, it is a form of martial art and dance and music that originated in Brazil from African slaves. My understanding is that the slaves were not allowed to practice or perform any kind of fighting or defence so this type of martial art was created as a disguise to them actually practicing fighting because it looked like they were just dancing. As for the current situation, it is widely practiced all over the world.

Simply put, it is mega hard. I’m talking about being as flexible as you are strong, as you are coordinated and quick. Some of the moves include: cartwheels, a variety of different kicks, acrobatics, handstands, flips, takedowns, etc. with the foundation move being Ginga (a rocking/stepping movement back and forth). Needless to say I can only do a very very small portion of the moves but it's been fun trying to learn them. I also feel it’s necessary to add that the environment we are doing the classes in is much like that of a hot yoga studio...hot. It is taught and attended by locals, all of which are equally amazing at Capoeira as they are inspiring. We’ve actually taken some video footage that I will hopefully be able to put up here at some point. Classes are held every weeknight, 4:30 – 6:00, the first hour is physical training and practicing specific moves, and the last half hour is 'Roda' – 3 people play musical instruments and the rest of the group stands in a circle clapping to the music while two people do capoeira in the middle. It looks as if they are fighting against each other (which they are) yet there is usually no body contact. It really is amazing to watch and attempting it is quite the humbling experience!