How to Do Esguiva in Capoeira

The capoeira is a unique martial art form that performed by slaves in Brazil during the 1500s as a way to vent their frustration. Today it is a mixture of dance moves and martial arts techniques. The esguiva is an important technique to know when performing capoeira.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Do the capoeira ginga dance. The capoeira ginga dance is done in a side-to-side motion. Start by placing your right foot at a 45-degree angle behind you and bring your right arm up in front of your face to eye level. Step back to standing position, and then do the same thing with the left foot. Continue to do this side-to-side motion to the rhythm of the music. Always keep your eyes on your partner.

2. Dodge the kick by bending over and placing your hand flat on the floor. Maintain your other arm at eye level and always look forward. Once you finish the kick, stand up and continue doing the ginga dance.

3. Perform an esguiva without placing your hands on the floor by bending over and extending one arm behind you and leaving the other arm bent in front of your face at eye level. Once the kick has passed, stand up and continue to do the ginga dance.

4. Start an esguiva each time your partner initiates a kick or a move. The esguiva is the most common way to block a kick when someone is doing the capoeira.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice the esguiva in slow motion until you feel comfortable. Gradually build up speed as you practice.
• Never take your eyes off of your partner. Looking away leaves you open to attack. The key to success in capoeira is to focus on the moves of your partner while performing your own moves.

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