How to Learn Capoeira Moves
Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, ritual and acrobatics with fighting moves, notably spectacular kicks and leg sweeps. Practitioners (known as capoeiristas) are extremely adept at evading attacks, utilizing defensive techniques that are elusive rather than dependant on blocking. Even though 90 percent of capoeira is comprised of leg movements, the hands and arms must be trained as well, since they are often used to maintain the capoeirista's balance while performing upside down techniques. Capoeira is often performed to traditional Brazilian music, as participants take turns sparring in an almost playful-like manner. A game element is characteristic of capoeira, but should not lead anyone to underestimate the sport's effectiveness for combat. While learning this unique art is challenging, it can be done in a number of ways.
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Things You'll Need
- A martial arts studio that teaches capoeira OR
- Capoeira books or videos
Instructions
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Research the art. Become familiar with capoeira's roots, philosophy, and physical elements. Before committing yourself to this demanding art form, you should know what you're getting into. Plus, the more background material you can absorb, the more you will appreciate and understand the art if you decide to go further with it.
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Get in shape. Capoeira is a demanding physical sport. Practicing it will get you in the best shape of your life, but you want to begin your studies with at least a moderate level of physical fitness so as not to become discouraged with your initial lessons.
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Find a teacher. The best way to learn capoeira is “live” with a certified instructor. First see if there are any capoeira schools in your immediate vicinity via a phone book. Then double check with an online directory, such as the one given in the Resources section.
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Learn online. There are many instructional videos online that can be accessed with a search using the terms “learn capoeira.” While many are free, there are also excellent pay-to-learn sites that distinguish themselves by offering high quality instructional videos, interactive teachers, and lively online communities where questions, tips and other insights are offered. See the resources at the bottom.
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Learn from a book if there are no schools or instructors in your area. There are many excellent texts available on capoeira. Weed out the good ones from the bad by checking customer reviews on sites such as Amazon.
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Buy or rent a video on capoeira. This is probably a better option than even reading a book, because you can view whole movements from beginning to end, and get a much better feel for how they are be performed. Plus, you'll have an instructor “talking” to you, which may help, psychologically at least, to get primed for your practice. Check your local video store, library or online video supplier for capoeira videos.
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Tips & Warnings
If learning on your own from a book or video, go slow You don't want to risk injury by overdoing the moves or attempting a move beyond your present abilities.
Resources
- Photo Credit Batuque Capoeira Group
