How to Add Kicks to Defenses in Capoeira

Capoeira is an ancient martial art that originated in Brazil. An artistic combination of music, dance, rituals, fighting and acrobatics, Capoeira is not a battle, it is a game. The object is not to knock your opponent out but to keep the game going. To use kick for defense in Capoeira the player must have balance and speed.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Set yourself in an opening stance. Place your legs shoulder-width apart with one in front of the other.

2. Perform an Armada or standard kick. Quickly spin your body around 360 degrees while lifting your back leg and extending it for the kick. Shift your weight as you turn. Keep your front foot on the floor. Continue the rotation and then place your back foot on the floor. You land sideways with your feet shoulder-width apart.

3. Use the Meia Lua de Frente as a defensive attack. Lift your back leg waist-high. Swing it around 180 degrees. Hold your arms out to balance yourself during the move. Pull your leg back in to get into position.

4. Do a straight kick or Bênção. Bend your knees and lift your front leg waist-high. Lean forward with both hands and grab the opponent. Straighten your lifted leg out slowly and firmly kick the opponent.

5. Utilize the Meia Lua de Compasso or Rabo de Arraia in a defensive attack. Start in a basic stance. Step back with one foot. Bend forward and place your hands on the floor. Push off with your back leg. Kick that leg to waist-height. Spin your body around with the kick and land on your back foot.

6. Perform the Negativa or takedown. Allow your partner to kick low. Lift your knee up to your waist. Extend your lifted leg. When your partner kicks, defend yourself with a kick to her chest. This knocks her down and gives you the advantage.

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