Capoeira – THE ORIGIN OF THE ARTFORM
Capoeira (pronounced cap-wearer) is a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. It was practiced by enslaved Africans in Brazil at the beginning of the 16th century. It is known for its acrobatic and complex maneuvers, often involving hands on the ground and inverted kicks.
ORIGIN OF THE WORD “CAPOEIRA”
First recorded in 1925–30; from Brazilian Portuguese; of uncertain origin; perhaps a transferred use of Capoeira “cultivated area that has reverted to forest or scrub” (referring to the martial art that originated in gatherings held by enslaved and rural people), from Tupi kaápaũ (equivalent to kaá “forest, scrub” + puera “that which once was”); perhaps from Umbundu (a Bantu language spoken in southern Angola) kapwila “a blow, beating”
~ dictionary.com
Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art form that has earned international notoriety for its beauty and the skills required from its practitioners.
Because Capoeira is a combination of dance, acrobatics and fighting skills, those who practice develop the physical strength, endurance, flexibility, coordination and intuition necessary for the sport. These are just a few of the benefits.
The music played and sung by the capoeiristas provide the rhythm for the games while the two competitors create a dialogue of movements. The appeal of the game and its philosophy is so widespread that it is now practiced around the globe.
Lead by Professor Boca do Mundo, the TEO BJJ Capoeira program has become very popular in Northern NJ and NY. By combining music and rhythm, martial arts, dance and acrobatics – this program is perfect for the athlete or someone looking to get into a different form of movement.
Professor Boca do Mundo was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil where his first interest in the art of Capoeira began. After moving to New York in 1991, Boca began his formal training under the tutelage of Professor Bom Jesus.
Professor Boca has conducted many lecture demonstrations at Yale University, New York University, Columbia University, and the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, UT. In 1996, Boca alongside Mestre Bom Jesus, introduced Capoeira to Crunch Fitness where they taught for over three years at various locations. It was the first time capoeira was taught in a gym setting in New York State.
Presently, Professor Boca is a member of Ginga Mundo under the guidance of Mestre Sabia from Salvador, Bahia.
Capoeira classes are held Renzo Gracie Fort Lee. Check out our online schedule for class times!
Here are some interesting articles about Capoeira and its history:
https://theculturetrip.com/south-america/brazil/articles/a-brief-introduction-to-capoeira/
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2007/mar/17/healthandwellbeing.features4
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smithsonian-institution/capoeira-occult-martial-art-international-dance-180964924/
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