East Lansing Capoeira

Welcome to the Official MySpace page of the East Lansing Capoeira Cordao de Ouro (ELC). East Lansing Capoeira meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 5p.m. to about 7p.m. Come experience the new generation of martial arts and self defense like you’ve never seen. Capoeira is the Afro–Brazilian martial art that is taking dance and self-defense to a breathtaking new level. Contact us today and join the tradition: [email protected] [email protected] Lansing Capoeira is baised out of East Lansing, Michigan, USA. Here you will find general information as well as contact details for our club. East Lansing Capoeira meets regularly and we practice indoors. History of Caopeira What is Capoeira? Capoeira is a unique Brazilian martial art form which combines combat, acrobatics, and dance-like movements to create a fluid and unique style of martial arts. Capoeira is performed to the beat of traditional Brazilian instruments and is generally played in an enclosed circle called a “Roda”. The creation of Capoeira is attributed to African slaves imported to Brazil during the sixteenth to the nineteenth centuries. However, details on the history of Capoeira are still debated within the Capoeira community. Even the definition of the word “Capoeira” itself remains uncertain. Prohibited from openly practicing forms of rebellion, slaves living on Brazilian plantations disguised their training by incorporating elements of dance, acrobatics, ritual, and music to their practice. Therefore creating the illusion that Capoeira was a simple traditional dance and was no threat. The result was a “game” featuring fluid movement close to the ground, martial sequences, and challenging acrobatics performed to the energetic singing and clapping of spectators. Capoeira though was discovered by the slave owners and was prohibited by law in Brazil up to the twentieth century! Traditional dances, singing, and other activities that could unite the slaves were also outlawed. To counter this law Capoeira constantly evolved and changed. Some historians believe this to be the reason that Capoeira evolved into an ever-changing art that could neither be defined nor successfully banned. Subsequently Capoeira has many different forms ranging from slower more traditional movement reflected in schools of Capoeira Angola to the aerial acrobatics and fast spinning kicks characteristic of contemporary Capoeira, commonly referred to as Capoeira Regional. Today, Capoeira has become an internationally recognized art form that offers its practitioners an unforgettable experience in movement, music, and Brazilian culture. Why Practice Capoeira?Capoeira does not only teach discipline and endurance but also self control and strength of character. Capoeira will teach you self defense and protection but Capoeira truly is a martial art that teaches peace. Capoeira is not focused on the “knock out” or defeating your opponent, rather it teaches harmony and friendship, although it can be used for aggressive self defense if needed. Capoeira also builds basic body skills such as strength, coordination and flexibility. Higher level Capoeira will also teach mental and physical endurance in addition to language skills as one learns basic Portuguese (the language of Capoeira). In addition to all of these benefits Capoeira is fun! It is a great workout with satisfying results and a energetic way to meet new people and work with friends.But no description can truly capture the feel of Capoeira so come join us for a free first lesson trial!