WHAT IS CAPOEIRA?

Around the XVI century African Slaves in Brazil developed their own form of fighting, Capoeira, in defiance of the oppressed system in which they lived. The African Slaves placed Capoeira to a unique form of music to which they sang about slavery, Capoeiristas, Africa and often spoke about the experiences of the day. The music often disguises a shrewd wit, astute political awareness, as well as great sandez.

The music is still very much alive. It is found at the Roda where the Jogo is performed. The Roda is created by a group of Capoeiristas encircling two “players” who exchange ritualised movements of attack and defence, the Jogo, to the rhythm of the capoeira music.

WHY CAPOEIRA?

Besides the skills Capoeira develops (e.g. concentration, balance, coordination, rhythm, flexibility, self-control, endurance and confidence), it is also excellent cardiovascular practice allowing one to keep fit while having fun. Capoeira is a complete experience providing a powerful, dynamic and sensational workout for all ages and levels. Everyone can participate irrespective of age, skill or fitness.

CAPOEIRA ABOLIÇAO

Mestre Delei Kaçula runs the main Academy in Miami, Florida. In the 1980s Mestre created the International Group of Capoeira Abolição. Today the group has grown, having branches around the world - Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Peru and the UK.

Formado “Polvo” is the director of Capoeira Abolição UK. Polvo started his career in Martial Arts (Tae Kwon Do) when he was 10. Several years later, in 1991, Polvo began learning Capoeira while studying Photography and Design. In 2000, Polvo became part of The International Group of Capoeira Abolição, opening the first Capoeira Academy in Colombia in 2001. He left the academy with more than 100 students, arriving in London in May 2000.

Once in London, Polvo established the first Capoeira Abolição Group in Europe. Besides developing the group, he has taught Capoeira around London.

At present the Group is more than 80 strong. Polvo teaches his group most evenings, while during the day he can be found in teaching Capoeira to primary children and children with special needs.

Polvo and his group have performed Capoeira workshops and displays at various venues in London, including Canning House, City Hall, 1492 Latin Fusion, The Body, Mind and Spirit Festival (Royal Horticultural Hall), The Thames Festival, and The Respect Festival (The Dome).

Every year Polvo organises a Batizado (a graduation ceremony) for his students. This involved Mestre Delei and many other Capoeira Professors and Mestres participating in a workshop for the previous week followed by a day ceremony.

CHELSEA SPORTS CENTRE
Chelsea Manor Street, SW3 5PL

Mon. 9 – 10 pm
Tue 6 – 7 pm
Wed. 8:30 – 10 pm
Thu. 8 – 9 pm
Fri. 7:30 – 9:30 pm
Sun. 2:30 – 4:30 pm

ROGER GRACIE ACADEMY
237 Kensal Road, Ladbroke Grove
London, W10

Mon. 10:30 am – 12: 30 pm Tue. Mon. 10:30 am – 12: 30 pm Wed. Mon. 10:30 am – 12: 30 pm Thu. Mon. 10:30 am – 12: 30 pm CLUB KENSINGTON 201 – 207 Kensington High Street London, W8 6BA Sun. 1:15 – 2:15 pm

THE CRIPT (Church Basement)
In front of Oval Tube Station (Oval)

Wed. 06:30 – 8:30 pm
Fri. 06:30 – 8:30 pm

AFTER SCHOOL CAPOEIRA CLUB (4 – 12 years old)
ASHBURNHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE
69 Tetcott Road
London SW10 0SH
Wed. 4 – 5 pm

FITNESS FIRST - BRIXTON
234-244 Stockwell Road
Brixton - London, SW9 9SP

Tue. 05:00 pm/ 06:00 pm
Wed. 05:00 pm/ 06:00 pm
Thu. 04:30 pm/ 05:30 pm
Sat. 05:00 pm/ 07:00 pm (Roda)

FLAXMAN SPORTS CENTRE
SE5 9DF Carew Street
Camberwell - London

Mon. 08:00 pm/ 09:00 pm
Wed. 07:00 pm/ 08:00 pm
Fri. 07:00 pm/ 08:00 pm

Further info CLICK HERE