Brazil is a very colorful tourist destination boasting of a warm (literally) and festive atmosphere. When people think of Brazil, it is quite difficult for them to divorce from the images of loud flamboyant parades (Mardi Gras), sunny beaches, and the iconic statue of the outstretched Jesus Christ at Rio de Janeiro.
If there is another cultural aspect that is indelible for tourists who visited the depths of Brazil's sunny ghetto, it is the exciting display of the acrobatic fighting discipline of capoeira. The one unique factor that seems to separate it from other well-known global fighting styles is that this Brazilian martial art puts a strong emphasis on rhythm and flexibility.
History of Capoeira
Capoeira is a martial art form concealed as a dance. After all, it is the only way African slaves can practice self-defense without drawing the punitive attention of Portuguese civil guards who closely monitor any rebellious activities.
It is widely accepted that capoeira existed around the early and mid-1500's. However, several scholars have implied that this Afro-Caribbean form of fighting can trace itself to ancient Congo. Nonetheless, music suffuses this Brazilian martial art even in contemporary times.
Capoeira might not be taken seriously given that this discipline is centered on dancing. However, several of its impressive acrobatic kicks have proven fatal in mixed martial art tournaments. The following moves featured in this Youtube video demonstrates rhythmic capoeira in its most deadly and practical applications.
The Kite-On Experience
One of the most attractive opportunities to experience capoeira training is at Lagoinha Beach, courtesy of the organization called Kite-On. In this place, one can learn the principles of capoeira moves through formal lecture and instruction while enjoying the random 'ronda' duel. Kite-On's training camp is also a good place to learn the Afro-Caribbean musical instruments played all throughout the entire duration of the capoeira training session.
Kite-On does not only offer basic capoeira instruction, it also includes yoga, samba, Zumba, and other aerobic dancing. Included in the one-week program are guided tours to 3 nearby tourist attractions, namely: Almecegas Lagoon, Munda Lagoon, and Flexeiras beach. Three square meals and the 6-night accommodations are also covered in the program.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
