How to Do Capoeira Back Flips

Capoeira fighters frequently enter the ring by displaying their athletic ability and capoeira skills with a back flip. In addition to being an impressive opening move, the back flip also delivers a powerful kick that moves you away from an opponent in a fighting situation. Follow these steps to do a capoeira back flip.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Move into the capoeira defensive sideways position by sweeping your left leg back, bending your right knee and leaning forward to plant your right hand on the ground.

2. Switch your planted hand from the right to left and shift your weight to the left as you do so.

3. Slide your back leg from behind you to in front of you and plant your left foot. Swing your right leg across your left foot so you turn 180 degrees and end up facing the opposite direction from the one you started in but slightly crouched on your right leg.

4. Kick up with your right leg from a slightly crouched position. Lead with your shin and follow it with your right thigh and then hip to whirl your lower body over your upper body to complete the back flip.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the thrust of your legs, not the arch of your back or your hands, to power the back flip. Leading with your back or lowering your hands will interrupt the smooth revolution you need to complete the back flip.
• Practice this move on foam, not the usual capoeira hardwood surface. Your teeth will thank you.

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