What to Know About Capoeira

Bella Breakdown

Capoeira has recently gained some popularity in the states as a dynamic way to get your daily fitness fix. This particular form of martial arts combines acrobatics, music, dance, and fighting. Capoeira, although not widely known, has been around since the 16th century and was developed in Brazil.

The most interesting part about it is that it was created by the African slaves brought to Brazil during slave trades that occurred nearly 500 years ago. Slaves were prohibited from fighting or practicing self defense so they developed Capoeira as a form of fighting, disguised as a dance.

This beautiful form of dance and self defense is much more than it’s creative, captivating movements. Capoeira is representative of the amalgamation of West and Central African tribes, combined with clever rebellion in a world that was otherwise oppressed for these people. This is likely the reason why this form of art and combat has carried through over 500 years later.

Now although we may never reach the level that Alfred Kendrick is at, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t give Capoeira a shot!