Capoeira is a mixture of martial art and dance, taking place in a playful way. If you do not understand, try to explain in a different way. Imagine 2 people fighting. But at the same time, they do not beat each other with their fists, but inflict graceful kicks, make difficult jumps and hooks. All this action is accompanied by a kind of music, under which the rivals insert dance movements.
Are you afraid of pain? In vain! After all, capoeira is just an imitation of a fight with contactless blows. In some ways, it looks like a break dance. In this article we will briefly talk about this type of martial arts.
Capoeira - what is it?
Let's try to answer this question. Still, it is more a martial art than a dance. As for the occurrence of capoeira, there are many conjectures, hypotheses, and opinions that are for the most part controversial. They are based on both romantic stories and real facts. The most common version says that capoeira was invented by African slaves who were taken to Brazil. The word itself has no concrete meaning. But researchers and masters translate it as "low vegetation." That is, this is a place with low grass, where it is convenient to practice capoeira.
The first reliable information about this martial art dates back to the 18th century. It was then that written sources appeared. But capoeira is actually much older.
In 1500, the Portuguese arrived in Brazil. Having begun colonization, they began to use the local Indians as slaves. But they either ran away or died quickly. To replenish labor, the Portuguese decided to bring slaves from their colonies - Congo, Guinea, Mozambique and Angola. Slaves brought their own culture, religion and traditions, which subsequently formed the basis of capoeira. For example, a number of African tribes had an initiation rite called the Zebras Dance. This action grew into a ritual battle between the young wars. This rite , combined with others, formed the basis of martial arts. Now you know the short answer to the question: "Capoeira - what is it?" We go further.
Advantages
Of course, the skills you get in training will come in handy for self-defense. But most people attend classes not for this. The main advantage of this martial art is that it makes the body graceful and beautiful, allowing you to come to optimal physical shape. And all this goes on excitingly - in the form of battle, dance and games. Beginners often ask the question: “Capoeira - what is it in terms of training?” We answer: "Creativity and freedom."
During classes, a lot of energy is spent, and almost all muscle groups are involved. This helps to reduce excess weight and skin tone. First of all, buttocks and hips are tightened, since the main load falls on the legs.
Capoeira also helps to get rid of the abdomen, because various turns and biases constantly tone the abs muscles. You will have to work on the relief additionally, but a tightened flat stomach is definitely provided.
In addition, flexibility and coordination of the body develops. Your body becomes strong and controllable, and your movements sharpened.
How are classes
First, take care of the clothes. You can buy a special suit or wear whatever is convenient. The only thing is that loose shirts will not work, since you have to stand on your head. Shoes are not needed - training is barefoot.
Any capoeira school divides the lesson into three stages:
- Warm up. It can be fitness exercises or standard dance moves;
- Practicing basic movements and techniques;
- The dance itself. At first, beginners can only watch from the side. But after receiving the appropriate skills, they are allowed to participate along with the rest.
Beginners need to remember that although contactless and contactless, some injuries are still possible. It is not always possible to predict the movements of an opponent and dodge. Also, a serious load goes on the joints. Therefore, in the presence of diseases associated with them, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Varieties
Brazilian capoeira includes two main styles - regional and angola. Regional is sharpness, speed, jumping and acrobatic stunts. Here, all blows are delivered in full force, so there is not always the opportunity to dodge. Thanks to this, the regional is the most spectacular style. Angola is characterized by smooth and slow movements. This is not a very beautiful capoeira. For beginners, this style is ideal. It will help to learn the basic movements well.
Most often, during a dance match, participants apply both styles. But the main factor in choosing the manner of battle is music, which has always been an integral part of performance and training. And ordinary music for capoeira is not suitable. They use exclusively folklore motifs and songs, accompanied by playing the ancient instruments. Such music acts as a background, and also gives inspiration, energizes fighters and sets the mood for the game.
Conclusion
Now you know the answer to the question: "Capoeira - what is it?" If you got bored with exercise machines and began to annoy the same type of exercises, then try to do this martial art. There has not been a single person whom this fashionable and fascinating dance-fight left indifferent.