History

Capoeira has a controversial history because of lack of proper documentation of it's origin; most information pertaining to the subject has been passed along through oral communication. It is speculated that Capoeira originated during the 16th century, when colonialism and industrialisation were rampant and European nations were conquering new lands. The Portuguese colonised parts of South America, especially Brazil, and enslaved locals. The lack of arms and ammunition to fight against the Portuguese led to the locals developing Capoeira. This martial art was publicized as a dance form.

Current Scenario

Capoeira was banned in the 18th century by the government of Brazil out of fear of an rebellion. Any Capoeira practitioner would be arrested, tortured and often mutilated by the officials. However, in the 19th century, the sport was structured and the first Capoeira school was started in 1932. As of today, Capoeira is a vital element of Brazilian heritage.

How It Works

Starting out as a martial art and later amalgamating elements of freestyle dance, the current version of Capoeira features fluid dance moves with subtle combat techniques imbibed in them. Flexibility and agility are the main aspects of Capoeira. Cartwheels, flips and rolls are the vital features in this art. Upon closer inspection, it resembles any other hand-to-hand combat technique moulded by fluid, yet frantic dance moves. It is usually performed in pair where the partners compliment each-other by attacking and parrying in a systematic manner.

The Risk

Well, death was the risk in the olden days, not by the art, but by the governing body of course! To put it in a nutshell, it is a martial art first, and a dance form later. So the blindingly fast leg sweeps and dance moves are equivalent to some heavy-duty one-on-one close combat techniques. So, stepping on the dance floor is equivalent to stepping into a battlefield!

This captivating and elegantly brutal dance form should only be tried by those properly trained in it! Nothing beats an opponent like performing a dance of death!

Capoeira, martial arts, brazil fighting, 30 Second Guide, combat

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