How to Use Capoeira Fight Techniques

Originally a dance brought to Brazil by African slaves, capoeira gained a martial arts quality when used to train fighting slaves without their masters' knowledge. Capoeira is a dance that can be used to fight or, alternatively, is a fighting technique that looks an awful lot like dancing. While Capoeira relies heavily on acrobatic fighting moves, the mental techniques are more important than the physical.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. The basic movement of the Capoeira technique is a lunging, swaying movement called ginga. This stance ensures that the fighter is always ready to respond to an opponent's attack with a quick move of his own.
   
   

2. The physical fighting moves of Capoeira are quite acrobatic. They include punching, kicking, head butting, cartwheels, headstands, headspins and rolls.

3. Faking out an opponent is a common Capoeira mental fighting technique. Feinting a move can expose your opponent's vulnerable spots and give you a chance to prepare a counter move she doesn't expect.

4. Emotional ruses are also fighting techniques used to distract and wear down opponents. A smile or laugh can divert an opponent's attention from your true intentions, while a calculated side comment can inject him with fear.
   
   

Tips & Warnings

• The use of hands to make attacking movements is rarely seen in Capoeira. Feet and legs are predominantly used.
• Afro-Brazilian music is used and is created with an instrument called a berimbau.

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[stayinrhythm]

on 10/14/2007 Arm movements and attacks are in fact an essential component for a well rounded Capoeira game. Aside from feints such as eye gouges and elbo strikes, a player may also employ the arms and hands to trip, pull, or sweep the oponent in a counter attack. View some videos of an Angola or Benguela game to see it in action.