Frequently asked questions
Do you have any questions about capoeira, its history, graduation system, groups and more? Find your answer on our FAQ page.
FAQ about capoeira
What is Capoeira
Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art with various elements such as defense, kicking techniques, acrobatic movements, musicality, and philosophy. It started during the time of slavery in Brazil, where slaves used capoeira to learn how to fight for self-defense. Liberation, improvisation, and self-expression are at the core of capoeira’s philosophy. Nowadays, you can learn capoeira at various groups worldwide, including CN Capoeira, which offers capoeira classes in different cities in the Netherlands.
Read more: What is Capoeira?
What does Capoeira mean?
The word “capoeira” comes from two Tupi (indigenous) words. “Ka’a” means forest, and “paũ” means round. This refers to places in the forest where low bushes grew—places where slaves would escape to, the same group that created capoeira.
What are the benefits of Capoeira?
With capoeira you train your entire body. You improve your fitness, motor skills, flexibility, reflexes and agility. You also learn to defend yourself and perform acrobatic movements. Capoeira teaches you to train your body and mind. Learning a martial art strengthens you mentally and physically.
Is Capoeira a martial art?
Yes, Capoeira is definitely a martial art. Due to the dynamic movements, music and capoeira shows, capoeira is often seen as a dance. However, when practicing capoeira you learn everything you learn in other martial arts. Self-defense, effective kicks and attacks, reflexes and self-confidence are all important aspects of capoeira that get a lot of arrention during capoeira training.
Read more: Is Capoeira a martial art?
Is capoeira a dance?
No, Capoeira is not a dance. Capoeira is often described as a Brazilian fighting dance. It combines elements of martial arts, acrobatics, music and dance. Capoeira used to be practiced together with other Brazilian dances and has been influenced by them. This is one reason why people often confuse capoeira with dancing. So while capoeira has certain dance-like movements, it is not purely a dance.
Read more: Is Capoeira a dance?
Is Capoeira difficult?
Many people are afraid to start capoeira because they think it is too difficult. But actually capoeira is very inclusive and made for everyone. You will find that you can learn the basic movements within just a few lessons. You don’t have to be fit, flexible or strong to start capoeira. These are exactly the things you learn when doing it. You can adapt almost all movements to your own level and build them up over time. You will often also notice that you may be capable of more than what you think.
Read more: Who is capoeira for?
What is a Capoeira workshop?
During a capoeira workshop, a professional teacher will teach you the basic principles and techniques of capoeira. During a workshop, participants can become acquainted with the basic movements, music and history of capoeira. It is a fun way to get acquainted with Brazilian culture and to learn more about this special and impressive sport and martial art.
What is a Capoeira Show?
It is a combination of music, dance, acrobatics and martial arts. During a capoeira show, the performers demonstrate their techniques and acrobatic movements, accompanied by music and singing. The audience can enjoy the energetic and dynamic atmosphere of the show. Capoeira shows are sometimes performed as part of cultural events, festivals or theater productions.
CN Capoeira Questions
What is CN Capoeira?
CN Capoeira is a capoeira group originally from São Paulo, Brazil. CN stands for Caravelas Negras. Contra Mestre Miojo leads the group in the Netherlands. Caravelas Negras Capoeira was founded by Mestre Parana. In the Netherlands, CN Capoeira is active in various cities. We offer regular classes for children, youth and adults. We also offer workshops and shows.
Read more: About CN Capoeira
What kind of style does CN Capoeira practice?
At CN Capoeira we practice a modern style of capoeira. With our style you will learn to play capoeira on different rhythms: regional de Bimba, Benguela, São Bento Grande, São Bento pequeno and more. Technique, tradition, safety and feeling are some of the pillars of our capoeira style.
Which Capoeira belt does CN Capoeira have?
Each capoeira group has its own belt system. At CN Capoeira we have the following tires (also called Cordas)
White yellow, yellow-yellow, yellow-orange, orange-orange, orange-blue, blue-blue, blue-green, green-green, green-purple, purple-purple, brown-brown, red-red
Read more: About our graduation system
Capoeira training
Can I join for a free trial class?
Of course! You can always joint for a free trial for the first class to see if you like capoeira. You can send us a message to request your trial lesson or simply visit one of our locations.
Request your free trial class
How do I register for Capoeira?
You can register for a trial class via our website or by telephone (+31 641838289). If you want to register, you can do so directly through the trainer. They will give you the registration form.
Do I need experience to join Capoeira?
No definitely not! Capoeira is made for everyone, regardless of age, gender or fitness level. Capoeira training is suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners. You don’t need any previous experience to participate. Classes are designed to teach basic movements and techniques step by step and gradually build your skills.
Find a class near you
What do you do during Capoeira training?
With a capoeira training you learn all aspects of capoeira: physical exercises, kicking techniques, dodges, acrobatic moves and music. You work on your fitness, strength, flexibility, agility and technique. The classes always start with a good warm-up and are varied. During the class you will also practice with others to develop your capoeira game and learn to apply everything you have learned.
Find a class near you
What Capoeira moves are there?
Capoeira has a wide range of movements. The basic movement is called “ginga”. Other basic movements are esquiva, rôle, negativa and balanço. You also have different types of kicks such as meia-lua de frente, armada, meia-lua de compasso, Queixada, martelo, chapa, benção, ponteira, gancho. ou also have various acrobatic movements such as aú (cartwheel), bananeira (handstand), macaco and much more. There are countless movements to learn and ways to combine them in creative and functional ways. During a capoeira lesson you not only learn the different movements, but also how to use them effectively and at the right time in a capoeira game.
Read more: About capoeira
Where can you train Capoeira?
You can find capoeira lessons in almost all major cities. CN Capoeira offers classes in Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Aalsmeer, Alkmaar, Haarlem, Hoofddorp and Zaandam.
Find a class near you
What do you learn when doing Capoeira?
With capoeira you do not only learn the physical movements and techniques, but also the culture and history of this Brazilian art form. You will learn to collaborate with others, play rhythmic music, sing songs and understand capoeira ethics. Capoeira also helps you to develop your spatial awareness and self-expression while enjoying an energetic and dynamic activity.
Find a class near you
From what age can children train Capoeira?
Children can start capoeira training at an early age, usually from 4 or 5 years old. This varies per child and per training location. Curious about where your child could train? Send us a message!
How much do classes cost?
The costs for a capoeira lesson vary per location. All subscriptions can be canceled monthly or monthly. If you train more than once a week or with several people from the same family, you can exercise more cost-effectively. Please contact us for specific rates.
What kind of clothing should I wear to class?
When you start capoeira you can simply wear comfortable sportswear. Sports shoes are not necessary because we train barefoot. If you practice capoeira for a while, you can purchase a special capoeira suit (shirt + pants). As soon as you get your first belt, you will also wear it for training.
Find a class near you
Capoeira Background
Where does Capoeira come from?
Capoeira originated in Brazil and is one of the most well-known Afro-Brazilian cultural expressions. It emerged during the colonial period in the 16th century, with influences from African cultures and martial arts, especially from Angola. But it also has indigenous influences.
Read more: The history of Capoeira
How old is Capoeira?
Capoeira originated in Brazil in the 16th century during the colonial period, when slaves were brought to Brazil from Africa. These slaves brought with them their traditional dances, music and martial arts, which formed the basis for the development of capoeira.
Read more: The history of Capoeira
How did Capoeira develop?
Capoeira originated during the colonial period in Brazil as a form of resistance and self-defense for the oppressed African slaves. The enslaved in Brazil had no weapons, so they had to learn to defend themselves with their own bodies. To camouflage their martial arts, they mixed it with music, song and dance. This is how capoeira emerged as a unique and expressive mix of martial art and cultural expression.
Read more: The history of capoeira
What is the history of Capoeira?
Capoeira has a rich history dating back to the 16th century in Brazil. It began as a secret practice among African slaves, evolved into a martial art and playful dance, and was later recognized as a valuable cultural heritage. During different periods in Brazilian history, capoeira was both banned and accepted, but it has always retained its tradition and popularity.
Read more: The history of capoeira
Does Capoeira come from Africa?
Capoeira has roots in Africa, but originated in the form we know it in Brazil. It has strong roots in the traditional dances, music and fighting forms of various African cultures, especially Angola. Slaves brought these cultural elements to Brazil and integrated them into the development of capoeira.
Read more: The history of capoeira
What is the differenc between different Capoeira schools?
Each capoeira school (also called capoeira group) has a Mestre (capoeira master) who is the head of the group and oversees all activities. Groups can have different styles such as Angola, Regional or Contemporanea (modern). Furthermore, capoeira clothing, ranking system, practiced rhythms and certain traditions may differ in various groups. CN Capoeira practices modern capoeira and works with a belt system (cordas)
Read more: About CN Capoeira
