Capoeira is a martial art that combines dance and acrobatics.
Capoeira is a term that is not part of the dictionary prepared by the Royal Spanish Academy ( RAE ). The concept, in any case, is frequently used in our language since it is the name given to a martial art of Brazilian origin that is very popular in many countries.
Capoeira is a combination of acrobatics , dance and other body expressions. Its origins date back to the beginning of the 16th century , when it was developed by descendants of Africans who took influences from local aboriginal cultures.
In 2014 , capoeira was included in UNESCO 's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity . The discipline can be developed in a sporting and acrobatic manner or in a fighting style. At a general level it is characterized by leg and arm movements and jumping.
capoeira practice
Traditionally capoeira was practiced to the rhythm of the birimbao , a string instrument. Nowadays it is common for percussion instruments to be used as accompaniment.
The practice of capoeira is carried out in “rodas” : musicians and capoeiristas form a circle while two practitioners face each other in the “jogo” (the game). While these two people engage in a fight (without physical contact), the others applaud and sing.
There are, however, different styles of capoeira and multiple techniques . Numerous “fighting committees” have been created around the world that organize the practice of capoeira and confront its exponents. Beyond capoeiristas, there are many mixed martial arts fighters who use capoeira movements.
Capoeira is part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Other interesting aspects
Other interesting aspects about capoeira are the following:
- The minimum size that the circle where the "roda" will take place must be 3 meters.
- Teachers who teach capoeira are committed to instilling in their students a series of important values. Hence, more and more people are talking about the advantages of this art. The practice encourages respect, freedom, safety and responsibility.
- One of the most important movements in capoeira is the one called "ginga", which basically consists of swinging.
- Movements such as what is called the “aú bate” also gain prominence within capoeira, which is an evasive side somersault that later transforms into a block or kick.
- When it comes to attacks, sweeps and kicks are relevant in capoeira, without forgetting punches and blows to the head.
Capoeira in the cinema
The world of cinema has had special interest in capoeira. For this reason, there are several films that revolve around it. We are referring to films like “Besouro” , which tells the story of one of the most important capoeiristas in the history of that art in Brazil, such as Besouro Mangagá or “Only the strong” .
However, we should not overlook other audiovisual productions about capoeira such as “Uma vida pela capoeira” , “Historia secreto de Bahía” and “A capoeira illuminated” .