Frequently asked questions

What are capoeira classes like?

Capoeira classes typically start off with a warm up and stretch, and then go into instruction on basic movements including steps, kicks, and dodges. After that a class might include partner drills, passes up and down the floor, or a rotation using our mats and equipment in various stations. Most classes will end with music practice, and/or the roda, the circle where people play the game of capoeira.
 

Is Capoeira a martial art? 

 In a nutshell capoeira is an art form unlike any other. It combines elements of martial arts, music, dance, and acrobatics into something that can be really hard to define. You've got to experience it to really understand what it's all about.

Capoeira comes from a different place than traditional Asian martial arts. Developed during the slave trade in Brazil the martial aspects of this art-form focus more on escaping and evasive movements than constant direct confrontation. Creativity in solving problems is valued above hurting your partner.
 

What if I'm not in good physical condition? What if I'm not flexible?

Don’t let this discourage you. Physical conditioning and flexibility comes with time and practice. If you can get yourself to the studio, our instructors can get you in shape. Of course, the more you train, the faster you will see results!

How do I register for classes?

To sign up for class, you simply need to arrive about 10-15 minutes before class time so you have time to get changed, make any necessary payments, speak to the instructor and ask any questions you might have. It would be better, as a courtesy, to contact the instructor prior to your visit.

What is a Batizado?

Every year our community gathers to celebrate our art and members in what is called a batizado. The batizado is when capoeira students play a master in the roda (circle) and are promoted to their next cordão (cord, or belt). We also hold a series of special workshops with visiting teachers, performances, and sessions to play the game of capoeira. We hold a smaller batizado event in April that is for our youth members, and a bigger one in October that is for kids and adults.

What benefits will I get from training?

This has got to be the best workout in the world. Most importantly it's a lot of fun, and everyone in class is enthusiastic and excited about what they're doing. That enthusiasm is contagious and you'll feel it the moment you walk through the door. You'll build strength, long lean muscles, flexibility, and maintain a healthy weight for your body type. What could you accomplish with a healthier, stronger, more flexible body?

Outside of just the physical benefits of training capoeira you'll see your confidence in other parts of your life soar. By mixing the physical workout with musical and language training you'll be engaging parts of your brain that need to be stimulated. Studying another culture helps develop social skills you can apply at school, work, and home. Capoeira classes offer lots of performance opportunities for those interested, and even opportunities to travel!

Do I have to wear shoes or can I go barefoot?

Some people prefer to do capoeira barefoot while others wear shoes. If you train capoeira in bare feet your feet will need to grow accustomed to the movements and “toughen up.” If you wear shoes it is best to wear indoor athletic shoes with a smooth bottom/no tread shoes that you can easily turn in.
 

What is a roda?

A roda is when people form a circle to play the game of capoeira. One one side are the instruments including the berimbau, but everyone usually helps make the music by clapping and singing along. Two people enter the circle in a manner that is according to tradition, and then play the game by exchanging kicks, dodges, and acrobatic movements accompanied by the music.

What do I wear?

Wear clothing that you feel comfortable moving around and sweating in such as workout clothes
(track or yoga pants and a t-shirt).
 

Is there a class for beginners?

Of course! We will have classes for everyone including kids ages 4 and up, adults, and persons with disabilities. 

What is "Capoeira"? 

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art that combines elements of fight, acrobatics, music, dance and rituals in a very elegant and magnetic way.
Performed by two people, it is often called a "game" that is played, not a fight. Capoeira is always played with a smile on face symbolizing that the capoeirista's are not afraid from the danger that is coming.The uniqueness of Capoeira will give your body physical strength, power and flexibility and your mind self-confidence, concentration, courage and creativity.  We have heard many people say that Capoeira is one of the best things that happened in their life. However, the only way to truly understand the magnetism of Capoeira is to see it and try it yourself.

Capoeira is "a dance-like fight, a fight-like dance, a song, a way of life!" —Mestre Acordeon