We are very fond of Capoeira for several reasons! A while ago, we went to an event called Batizado (or baptism), and met a group called Capoeira Vida, formerly Capoeira Brooklyn. The modality is a traditional Afro-Brazilian Martial Arts.
If you enjoy fitness group activity, you should definitely learn more about Capoeira Brooklyn.
Capoeira is:
“…a child conceived in Africa and born and raised in Brazil. Originally outlawed in Brazil, the art of Capoeira was created and practiced by Africans forcibly brought to Brazil during the slave trade as a form of combating their oppression. Dance-like movements, instruments and singing disguised the martial nature of the art from the Portuguese slave masters.
Capoeira continued to be illegal in Brazil until the 1930’s when it was taken off the streets and brought into the classroom. Today Capoeira is a both legal and very popular in Brazil and throughout the world. On July 15th, 2008, Capoeira was officially recognized as a culturally preserved art by the Brazilian government’s Department of Culture. It is a rich and multi-dimensional art that teaches culture, language, music and encompasses a complete body workout.”
In short, this unique and traditional Afro-Brazilian Martial Arts mixes self-defense, acrobatics, with a specific music rhythm.
Capoeira Brooklyn was founded my Mestre Foca and his wife, Instrutora Rouxinol. Both have been practicing the technique for over 20 years. Mestre Foca decided to open the only full-time capoeira academy, in Brooklyn, years ago. Today, it a highly recognized school within the capoeira community in New York and abroad.
He is certified as a professional martial arts instructor through IDEA Health & Fitness Association, while Instrutora Rouxinol is a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
Besides the classes for adults of all levels, they also have fantastic classes for kids.
They are both specializes in teaching children, so it’s definitely a good activity for kids to try out too.
In 2012, Mestre Foca and Instrutora Rouxinol launched a music compilation called “Vem Brin Capoeira”. They wrote and You can buy on , if you’re interested.
So, we’re sure you’ll just love this Afro-Brazilian Martial Arts modality. Plus, there’s nothing better than to get fit with mental balance and great capoeira music!
Still in the Brazilian spirit, you might want to try a great restaurants, a bar and a bakery. Beco Bar, in Williamsburg, Berimbau do Brasil, in Greenwich Village, and Padoca Bakery on the Upper East Side.
Classes: Check their website for details.
Locations:
Way of Action: 316 7th Street, 2nd Floor, in Park Slope, Brooklyn
PowerPlay: 432 3rd Avenue, in Gowanus, Brooklyn
LeFrak Center at Lakeside: 171 East Drive, in Prospect Park
Credits: Courtesy of Capoeira Vida, formerly Capoeira Brooklyn
*Last Update on March/2020.*
