What is Capoeira? History and origin of the Afro-Brazilian martial art

What is Capoeira? This is a form of martial arts whose origin is in Brazil. The sport combines dance, gymnastics, music, and acrobatic moves that serve as offensive and defensive strategies. What is the origin of the Brazilian martial art? Let's find out below.

Is Capoeira considered Martial Arts? According to Mmahive.com, there are several types of Martial Arts, including boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai. Some of the least common ones include Judo and Taekwondo. Most of these sports have other variations within them, like Capoeira, based on history and objectives. What is Capoeira? Read on and find out.

What is Capoeira?

Capoeira is a Brazilian martial arts variation that combines self-defence, acrobatics, music, and dance. The sport is pronounced as ''Cap-wearer,'' and participants disguised it as a dance performed to musical instruments and Brazilian songs to shield the fact that they were practising fight moves.

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What is the history of Capoeira?

The Capoeira origin can be traced to when the Portuguese adopted enslaved Africans in Brazil. They got these individuals primarily from West and Central Africa, receiving about 38.5% by ships across the Atlantic Ocean. So, where is Capoeira from? The art started in Brazil, but the specific region has yet to be discovered.

These slaves started engaging in this activity fueled by the desire for freedom, to break their mental and physical bonds. The art was seen as a social infirmity prohibited by the Brazilian Penal Code and became synonymous with bandits or thieves. Despite these inhibitions, the Capoeristas (as they are known) camouflaged the art as a dance.

When was Capoeira invented?

In the 16th century, African slavery in Brazil was at its peak. Around this time, enslaved Africans started engaging in this art to express their desire for freedom from their oppressors. Unfortunately, the specific time of its invention remains undisclosed.

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Capoeira moves and Capoeira rules

Since it started, Capoeira has undergone several changes and developments. Like any other sport, Capoeira is governed by rules and guidelines. Here are some of them:

• It is played in a circle, called a 'roda', accompanied by music and singing.
• Only the hands and feet touch the floor.
• Attacks are primarily made with the legs, although swirling kicks, leg sweeps, and knee strikes are also used. Capoeristas sometimes use elbow strikes, punches, and head strikes to attack.
• The most basic step is a 'Ginga' and forms the basis of all the other Capoeira moves.

Capoeira dance fighting

Today, Capoeira has become widespread globally. The art takes years to learn if you train and practice consistently. Capoeira fighting is in levels, and participants rise across each as they develop their expertise. It takes two to three years to get past all the levels.

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What are the five Capoeira movements?

Like other sports have beginner through to advanced levels, Capoeira has five moves. These start from the basic level, advancing to higher levels as dancers hone their skills. Here are the moves:

1. Ginga

The beginner move combines partial-range squats and lunges. The purpose of this move is to challenge the player's coordination. As the learner keeps practising, the footwork also gets easier.

2. Spinning kicks

Spinning kicks are learned at the second level and help you move around the Capoeira circle and create fluid interaction with your partner. The basic kicks include Armada, Queixada, and Meia lua de compas.

3. Escapes

Escapes are similar to boxing among boxing athletes. This move makes Capoeira different from most of the other Martial Arts, determines a player's Capoeira proficiency, and allows him to play an inside game.

4. Floor transitioning

This means travelling across the floor and being at different places seamlessly with your partner. The right floor positioning means that you can move in all directions from any position. Advanced players also have supple and fluid movements of their limbs at this level.

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5. Frontal kicks

The frontal kicks are an efficient form of attack and are harder to anticipate in a Capoeira fight. They are as crucial as takedowns or counter-takedowns, making the game appear more natural.

Capoeira exercise

Besides fighting, Capoeira is physically demanding, making it a brilliant way to stay fit. Here are some of the benefits of a Capoeira workout:

• It gives you agility and fast reflexes that make you respond promptly in case of an attack.
• It enhances flexibility, which improves mobility in your joints and muscles.
• Capoeira improves heart activity. The exercise increases stamina and helps you burn more calories, improving your heart condition.

• Improved balance. The coordination of the upper and lower body and balancing on one leg or hand improves your body's general balance.
• The activity strengthens your upper body, including upper arms, chest, and back.

Capoeira combines physical activity, music, dance, and culture, all expressing themselves through incredible performances worldwide. Sports enthusiasts will likely be excited to try this exciting art as they discover the Afro-Brazilian martial art and unique workout.

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READ ALSO: Differences and similarities between Taekwondo and Karate

Sports Brief published an article outlining the differences and similarities between Taekwondo and Karate. The two forms of Martial Arts are widely practised and are now part of the Olympics. Both arts are physically demanding and require commitment and consistency to advance your skill. What are some of the differences between the two?

Karate uses more hand attacks, while Taekwondo uses different leg stances to deliver quick kicks. In addition, Karate originated in Japan, while Taekwondo originated in Korea. Check out the above article for a detailed comparison between the two martial arts.