What is Capoeira?
There are many sources online for the definition of capoeira. Our favorite explanation of "what is capoeira" can be found at capoeiracamara.com home of Capoeira Camará a capoeira group in Canada, founded by Contra Mestre Bola.
Training Capoeira and using online resources to compliment your learning efforts
Capoeira is a unique martial art form, encompassing many realms in the arts (music, martial art, dance, singing) as well as Brazilian culture (language, history). It is not recommended to learn capoeira strictly from online sources (movements lists, video clips, etc).
Several excellent training dvds have been put together by great masters of the art. These are great tools for learning movements and sequences, in addition to training with a group. Different groups train movements differently, so when you find a source online, don't assume that every group will train movements in the same way or even ginga the same.
Movements are best learned in the classroom, so train with a group but definitely use quality dvds to train outside of classes. Aside from movements there is more to learn such as history, Brazilian Portuguese, and playing instruments. These areas are where online resources become useful.
Use our directory to find links and information for all the essential elements involved in capoeira.
Training consists of:
Excersices and Stretches
Conditioning
Movements and sequences
Learning Brazilian Portuguese
Learning songs
Playing instruments
Learning the History and Philosophy of capoeira
Playing in the roda; having a conversation with another capoeirista
Many books have been written on the history of capoeira by history experts as well as capoeira mestres. You check our list of books if you are interested in finding a good book on capoeira and related subjects.
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