The game
Two players enter a circle and exchange kicks, evasions and other movements. They respond to each other, creating a dialogue that can be playful, expressive and challenging.
An introduction
A conversation
without words.
Capoeira combines martial arts, movement, music and cultural expression. The best way to understand it is to see how those pieces come together.
Roots & resilience
Born in Brazil.
A worldwide movement.
Capoeira’s history is a story of resistance, creativity and community. Developed in Brazil by enslaved Africans and their descendants, it grew from African cultural traditions shaped by life under slavery. Movement, combat, rhythm and expression became part of a practice through which people could maintain connections, assert their identities and respond to oppression.
Today, people around the world practice Capoeira while learning from the traditions and people who continue to shape it.
Listen closely
Movement follows
the music.
Alongside the berimbau, you may hear the pandeiro (a frame drum), atabaque (a tall hand drum), agogô (bells) and reco-reco (a scraper). Instruments and arrangements vary between traditions and groups.
Many songs are in Portuguese and use call and response. You learn by listening, joining in and returning to the circle.
Inside the circle
This is the roda.
The music
The berimbau, a single-string musical bow, guides the rhythm and character of the game. Singing, clapping and percussion connect the players with the circle.
The community
The people around the roda are part of the practice. Their voices and energy help sustain the game and make it a shared experience.
Beginning Capoeira
You don’t have to know it all.
Start with basic steps, learn to move with a partner and get familiar with the rhythm. Acrobatic movements are only one part of a much broader practice.
Do I need experience to start?
No. Beginners can start with basic movements, rhythm and the practice of learning with a partner. You do not need to arrive knowing acrobatics.
What should I wear?
Wear clothes that are comfortable and allow movement. Shoes are at your discretion.
What happens in a first class?
A typical introduction may include a warm-up, basic steps and movements, partner practice, and music. The exact class format will be confirmed by each local group.
Can children take part?
All are welcome in Capoeira. No matter the age.
How much does a class cost?
Class cost are location specific. Reach out to your local group to confirm pricing.
Your first step
There’s a place for you
in the roda.
No experience needed to begin exploring Capoeira.