If you’re into fitness and looking for a change from your typical yoga class, then Capoeira is the perfect solution for you. It is an upbeat cardio and conditioning exercise that fuses music, dance, and martial arts all in the same workout.
Capoeira was created in Brazil by African slaves during the sixteenth century; it was their hope for survival to escape slavery. At the time slaves were not allowed to fight due to the owners fear that they might turn on them. The slaves used dance as their way of hiding fighting techniques used for self-defense. Slaves continued the art of Capoeira even after the slavery era, but because they could not get employment, many of them turned to gangs. In 1892, Capoeira was outlawed in Brazil due to its association with crime. The ban on Capoeira faded in 1918 and Afrticans were free to practice their style of art form. It wasn’t until 1937 when a man by the name if Mastre Bimba opened the very first school of Capeoira which led to it’s legalization in Brazil. Mastre Bimba performed the art form in front of Brallian President Getulio Vargas. The president was so impressed by the performance that he made Capoiera the national sport of Brazil.
Today, the popularity of Capoeira continues to grow and is known worldwide. Many classes are held to teach students the history of this tradional art form and also give them a great conditioning workout.
The most recognized move in the art Capeoeira is called the Ginga. The ginga is used as a way of keeping the body moving to prepare for an attack or to defend. As the routines get more difficult, kicks, punches and flips are added to enhance their skills.
What makes this form of martial arts so unique is that it joins dance, music and martial arts all in one. It’s a great condition workout especially for the legs and you can learn something about the Brazilian culture.
