Capoeira Basics

Capoeira was developed as a Brazilian martial art. With Afro-Brazilian roots, the martial art form features dance-like moves that could be disguised as a dance. The base for Capoeira is called the ginga, and the majority of moves are fluid, fast, and acrobatic. Due to the nature of the moves in Capoeira, it is beneficial to warm up the muscles and stretch properly before attempting any Capoeira moves. Stretching frequently will help improve form and technique also.

• Ginga. The ginga move is among the first taught in Capoeira. From a standing position, sweep one leg behind you while bringing the arm (on the same side as the sweeping leg) up to form a horizontal protective line across the lower face. The standing leg bends, making the legs appear in a stretched lung position. Then sweep the back leg out to the side, while switching arms and legs and sweeping the other leg behind. This is repeated to the music in Capoeira.
• Cocorinha. The cocorinha is another basic Capoeira move. The cocorinha is used as a defensive move. From the ginga, the cocorinha is basically similar to taking a knee and defending upward with an arm. From this position, the person can return to the ginga move, or perform a fast meia lua pressa kick.
• Meia Lua Pressa. The meia lua pressa is an offensive Capoeira move wich results in a swinging kick. From the ginga, stop and put one hand on the ground moving toward the rear leg while simultaneously swinging the rear leg around and up in a high-sweeping kick. Once the kick circles around and hits the floor again, the ginga is continued.