Working Out with Capoeira

I got a call from a dear friend of mine to come join her for a Capoeira class. I willing send yes. I had no clue what Capoeira was, except her explanation that it was some Brazilian dance type thing and since she is a close friend (known her 10yrs +) and wouldn’t ask me to do anything she wouldn’t do. So,  I figured why not. I did not go completely unprepared. I did Google Capoeira. I was a little timid after watch one Youtube video. Capoeira (say that 2 times fast)  is a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music.

I went to the Capoeira class and I was able to bring my kids along, which was a bonus, and really enjoyed myself. I showed up to class with the right attire, my kids not so much. I wanted them to be comfortable and not argue about going with me, I know when to pick my battles.  My son has on flip flops and my daughter wore a long skirt. They recommend lightweight pants, a t-shirt, and flexible shoes. I highly recommend you follow these guidelines of clothing. The instructor, Jason, was amazing.  He was very knowledgeable about Capoeira. You can definitely tell his passion. In the beginning of the class, he spoke a little about the instruments and history and included my kids. After a mini lesson, we were taught some moves such as ginga, the back-and-forth, foot-to-foot movement that is a basic movement and done often. Flips and how to duck if another person was to attack (or kick us). The highlight of learning these moves was seeing the attention of making sure not only the adults got the moves, but my son, who was learning the moves and movements, did as well. He participated with the adults and he held his on. After an hour of learning moves (and burning triceps) we got a chance to play the instruments while we each took a turn doing a dance with the movements we learned and see the different ways the movements worked. At the end of the class, my kids were rewarded with the chance to climb the rope. They were elated about this reward (future idea brewing).

Now when I think of martial arts, I don’t think of the Karate Kid type anymore. Capoeira has definitely opened my eyes to a unique way of working out, learning history and playing music. I am already thinking about another session. My son wants to do it again and my daughter is on board (now that she got to climb the rope). This class was a great family activity and I will asking the husband to tag along for sure.

Thanks to Jason and my dear friend Noelle for introducing me to Capoeira!