BACKGROUND

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art form that combines dance, acrobats and martial-art techniques. The flow of kicks, sweeps, cartwheels, handstands, and flips is set to the rhythm of Brazilian songs and percussion instruments. This creates a game requiring strength, agility, and communication between players. A unique art form, Capoeira encourages teamwork, self-confidence, self-expression, and exposure to a new cultural experience.

Each Capoeira program begins with a sequence of basic exercises and stretches, helping the beginner to develop flexibility. The next phase is to master the rhythmic step called GINGA, a graceful side-to-side step that gives the student a physical base from which to execute all kicks, escapes, and acrobatic moves.

Students progress towards training in partners, where the practice of various Capoeira sequences allow them to develop an idea of how to move and what to do inside the RODA, the circle in which the game is played, with the accompaniment of capoeira songs and instruments.

Cordao de Ouro Capoeira Academy will teach capoeira movements with a focus on individual expression of each movement, as well as introduce the musical and historical components of the art. Classes include song and instrument work, thorough warm ups, drills, partner sequences, tumbling, and games. Students need not have any former gymnastics, acrobatics, or martial arts experience to enroll in this class. Capoeira classes are offered to students age 5 and older.