Capoeira

Capoeira (in English cap-oh-ay-ra) is a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance and music. It was developed in Brazil mainly by Africans beginning in the 16th century. It is known by quick and complex moves, using mainly power, speed, and leverage for leg sweeps.

The word capoeira probably comes from the Tupi language, referring to the areas of low vegetation in the Brazilian interior.

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian blend of martial art, game, and culture created by enslaved Africans in Brazil during the 16th Century. Participants form a roda (circle) and take turns playing instruments, singing, and sparring in pairs in the center of the circle. The game is marked by fluid acrobatic play, feints, subterfuge, and extensive use of groundwork, as well as sweeps, kicks, and headbutts. Throughout the game, a player must avoid a sweep, trip, kick, or head butt that may knock him or her on the floor. Less frequently-used techniques include elbow-strikes, slaps, punches, and body-throws. Capoeira has evolved from one main form, known as "Capoeira Angola", into two other forms known as "Capoeira Regional", and the ever-evolving "Capoeira Contemporânea".

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