Capoeira - what is it, martial art or dance?

Capoeira is a mixture of martial arts and dance, taking place in a game form. If you do not understand, try to explain in another way. Imagine 2 people fighting. But they do not beat each other with their fists, but do graceful kicks, make complex jumps and cuts. All this action is accompanied by a kind of music, under which rivals insert dance movements.

Afraid of pain? In vain! After all, capoeira is just an imitation of a fight with non-contact strikes. In some ways, it looks like a breakdance. In this article we will briefly describe this kind of martial arts.

Capoeira - what is it?

Let's try to answer this question. Still, it's more of a martial art than a dance. As for the emergence of capoeira, there are many conjectures, hypotheses and opinions, which for the most part are contradictory. 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 does not have a specific meaning. But researchers and masters translate it as "low vegetation". That is, this is a place with low grass, where it is convenient to do capoeira.

The first reliable information about this single combat dates back to the 18th century. It was then that written sources appeared. But in fact, capoeira is much older.

In 1500, the Portuguese arrived in Brazil. Having begun colonization, they began to use local Indians as slaves. But those either escaped, or quickly perished. To replenish the labor force, the Portuguese decided to bring slaves from their colonies - Congo, Guinea, Mozambique and Angola. Slaves brought their own culture, religion and traditions, which later formed the basis of capoeira. For example, a number of African tribes had a rite of initiation called "The Dance of Zebras." This action grew into a ritual battle between young wars. This ritual in combination with others was used as a basis for single combat. Now you know the short answer to the question: "Capoeira - what is this?" We go further.

Advantages

Of course, the skills that you get in training, will be useful for self-defense. But most people do not attend classes for this. The main advantage of this single combat is that it makes the body elegant and beautiful, allowing you to come to an optimal physical shape. And all this is fascinating - in the form of battle, dance and play. Beginners often ask the question: "Capoeira - what is it in terms of training?" We answer: "Creativity and freedom."

During classes, much energy is expended, and virtually all muscle groups are involved. This helps to reduce excess weight and tone of the skin. First of all, the buttocks and hips are tightened, since the main load falls on the legs.

Also, capoeira helps to get rid of the stomach, because various twists and turns constantly tone the muscles of the press. Above the terrain will have to work extra, but a tight flat stomach is exactly provided.

In addition, flexibility and coordination of the body develops. Your body becomes strong and manageable, and movements - sharpened.

How are classes conducted?

To begin with it is necessary to take care of clothes. You can buy a special costume or wear something that is comfortable. The only thing, do not fit free T-shirts, since you have to stand on your head. Shoes are not needed - training is barefoot.

Any school of capoeira divides the occupation into three stages:

• Warm up. It can be a fitness exercise or a standard dance movement;
• Development of the basic movements and techniques;
• The dance itself. Initially, beginners can only observe from the side. But after obtaining the appropriate skills they are allowed to participate on an equal basis with the others.

Beginners need to remember that even though the fight is non-contact, some injuries are still possible. It's not always possible to predict the opponent's movements and dodge. Also, a serious load goes to the joints. Therefore, in the presence of related diseases, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Varieties

Brazilian capoeira includes two main styles - regional and angola. REGIONAL - this is sharpness, speed, jumps and acrobatic stunts. Here, all blows are done in full force, so there is not always an opportunity to dodge. Thanks to this, the regional is the most spectacular style. Angola is characterized by smooth and slow movements. This is not very beautiful capoeira. For beginners, this style is ideal. It will help you to learn basic movements well.

Most often during a duel-dance participants apply both styles. But the main factor in choosing the manner of fighting is music, which has always been an integral part of the performance and training. And the usual music for capoeira is not suitable. They use exclusively folklore motifs and songs, accompanied by playing on ancient instruments. Similar music acts as a background, and also gives inspiration, energizes fighters and sets the mood of the game.

Conclusion

Now you know the answer to the question: "Capoeira - what is this?" If you are bored with the simulators and began to annoy the same type of exercises, then try to do this combat. There was not a single person who would have been indifferent to this fashionable and fascinating dance-fight.