Capoeira is a unique Afro-Braziian martial art that originated in African slave culture during the 19th Century. It has been referred to as the dance-fight for freedom, as some believe that it was a martial art disguised as a playful dance by African slaves who used it in their fight for liberation from slavery. As such, the history of Capoeira is the history of an oppressed people, which has been passed down from one generation to the next through a rich oral tradition.
Capoeira is a diversified martial art that incorporates self- defense techniques, acrobatics, dance, and music into a sport and game that is appreciated by people of all walks of life. Capoeira takes place between two individuals within a roda - a circle of people who play musical instruments, sing and clap their hands to set the rhythm for the game and provide axe (energy) for the people in the center of the circle. As this intricate game develops, its players exchange a sequence of kicks and evasive maneuvers.
One distinguishing characteristic of Capoeira, which sets it apart from other martial arts, is its “mandinga,” which literally translates to “magic” or “spell.” In the context of Capoeira, mandinga refers to the hidden power one has to disguise his or her real intention and to trick his or her opponent with the roda. Mandinga therefore comprises the dance aspect of Capoeira.
Music is also a very important component of Capoeira, as it provides the energy and rhythm for the roda. The musical instruments commonly used are the atabaque (a drum played with the hands), the pandeiro (a tambourine) and the berimbau (a stringed instrument with a gourd amplifier that is played with a stick and a stone to sound different tones).
In Capoeira culture, there are other arts performed within the roda and commonly taught along with Capoeira, such Samba de Roda, a playful exchange of Samba between a man and a woman that is typically performed after Capoeira in the roda, and Maculele, an aestheltically oriented stick fighting dance in which, unlike Capoeira, the object is not to outwit one’s opponent.
The practice of Capoeira conditions the whole body by developing one’s strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Capoeira also builds one’s self- esteem, in addition to sharpening one’s reflexes.
ABOUT THE BETA CAPOEIRA PROGRAM
At The Academy for Body Efficient Tactical Arts (BETA Academy), experienced and qualified instructors teach the style of Capoeira Regional Contemporanea, under the leadership of Mestre Ray of Oficina da Capoeria.
Students of the Capoeira Program at BETA Academy learn a comprehensive system of defensive techniques, takedowns and kicks. Our students also learn how to embellish their game with the beautiful movements and expressions of Mandinga. This is an important element that is often lost in translation and not taught in many American schools for Capoeira. The BETA Capoeira Program is also culturally informative, as it includes instruction in all of the essential aspects of Capoeira culture, including its music, language, and history. Students also participate in batizados (ceremonies) where they will earn cordas (belts) to mark the growth of their Capoeira skills and knowledge.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) ABOUT CAPOEIRA
- What is the difference between the style of Capoeira Regional and the style of Capoeira Angola?
Capoeira Regional was developed in the 1930`s by Manuel dos Reis Machado, known to the Capoeira community as Mestre Bimba. It is characterized by an incredible display of acrobatics and lashing kicks that are executed with speed from a more upright position.
- Do I need to know how to speak Portuguese in order to learn Capoeira?
One does not need to speak Portuguese in order to learn Capoeira. In fact, Capoeira’s global student body is represented by all walks of life and speaks many diffrent languages. However, Capoeira classes offered by Carlos Lopes, a native of Brazil, do provide students with the opportunity to learn relevant vocabulary of the Portuguese language.
- What should I wear to Capoeira class?
For the first few Capoeira classes, students should wear clothes that are comfortable to move around and sweat in, such as t-shirt and sweat pants. Eventually, students will need to purchase a capoeira uniform, also know as an abada. Students may purchase abadas at the BETA Academy store.
- What do the Cordas (belts) of Capoeira signify?
The graduation system of cordas/ belts was introduced to Capoeira by Mestre Bimba. As an homage to former Capoeiristas who wore silk scarves around their necks in the belief that this would protect them from cuts of razor blades, Mestre Bimba placed scarves of varying colors around the waists of his students to signify their rankings. The cord system of rankings is thus similar to the belt systems of other martial arts. However, the cordas’ colors and their significance vary from one group of Capoeira practitioners to another.
- How often should I train Capoeira?
Students are encouraged to train Capoeira at least 2 times per week. The key to becoming comfortable with Capoeira is to apply the techniques, movements and drills taught in class within the roda (a circle of people who play musical instruments, sing and clap their hands to set the rhythm for the game).
- What if I have trained Capoeira before?
Capoeira practitioners and students of all levels and martial arts backgrounds are welcome to join the Capoeira Program at BETA Academy. If you have experience in Capoeira, an instructor will assess your level and place you in the appropriate class.