LA CAPOEIRA, AT THE CROSS OF AFRICA AND BRAZIL
The origins of capoeira are unclear and are not told in any book. Generally, this martial art is considered to be Brazilian and inspired by African rites.
In the 16th century, at the time of Portuguese colonization, thousands of Angolan slaves were deported to Brazil to work in plantations and mines. Capoeira is therefore a mixture of Brazilian and African cultures. Thanks to this martial art, capoeirists expressed their oppression and their desire for freedom in the face of slavery culture. It was actually a disguised way of preparing for combat. The songs and the music made capoeira completely harmless to the eyes of the slave masters.
This discipline has survived through the centuries thanks to the oral tradition and the first capoeira academy was created in 1930 in Salvador de Bahia. It was not until 1937 that the Brazilian president recognized the sport as no longer illegal.
HOW TO PRACTICE THE CAPOEIRA?
You understand, music is essential! Several traditional musical instruments such as gongue (percussion), pandeiro (tambourine), berimbau (musical bow) and atabaque (long drum) accompany the capoeiristes. The songs are also ubiquitous!
The participants form a roda (a circle): the fighting can begin, embellished with flora (acrobatics). Know that it is the person who plays the berimbau who is master of the roda and who manages the rhythm. The atmosphere is warm and very festive.
If you want to start capoeira, go to a club near you. Generally, the course starts with warm-ups and continues with the learning of kicks and different movements. The discovery of songs and music is also an integral part of the lessons. Regarding the outfit, capoeirists are traditionally dressed in white pants called abadá.
THE BENEFITS OF CAPOEIRA
Everyone can practice capoeira, including children and the elderly. Teachers adapt to the needs and expectations of the public. Be careful, however, if you have heart problems, if you suffer from balance problems or if you feel pain in the joints. Remember to consult a doctor before starting classes.
Practiced in a framed way, capoeira is extremely beneficial for the body and for the head. You will work on your stamina , agility and concentration. You will also improve your sense of rhythm, reflexes and coordination. Capoeira conveys positive values such as tolerance, creativity or usability.
