What is Capoeira?

Capoeira is a vibrant and captivating Afro-Brazilian martial art, uniquely blending dance-like moves, acrobatics, and music. It originated from the African slaves brought to Brazil and was developed as a form of resistance and cultural expression disguised as a dance to escape persecution.
In Capoeira, participants form a "roda" circle, taking turns playing musical instruments, singing, and sparring in fluid movements.
This art form emphasizes rhythm, agility, and coordination, promoting physical fitness and a deep sense of community and cultural connection.

Whether you're drawn to its physical demands or rich history, Capoeira offers a dynamic way to explore martial arts and music while connecting with a diverse and welcoming community.

Suitable for adults and young participants

Classes Information
Marlborough

Ready to start learning Capoeira songs?

Click on the link below, and you'll be on your way!
Once you open the PDF file, you'll find the Portuguese lyrics with English translations right next to them. To make it even better, we've included Spotify and/or YouTube links at the bottom of each page so you can listen to the song as you learn the lyrics. Enjoy!

Capoeira in Wellington, Mestre Bira

A Journey of Passion, Dedication, and Leadership in Capoeira

Grao Mestre Bira, the esteemed founder and leader of Integração Volta ao Mundo and Resistência, stands as a towering figure in the world of Capoeira. His journey, spanning over four decades, is a testament to his unwavering dedication, exceptional skill, and profound impact on the global Capoeira community.

Grão Mestre Bira

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Capoeira is a vibrant and captivating Afro-Brazilian martial art, uniquely blending dance-like moves, acrobatics, and music. Originating from the African slaves brought to Brazil. It was developed as a form of resistance and cultural expression disguised as a dance to escape persecution. In Capoeira, participants form a "roda" circle, taking turns playing musical instruments, singing, and sparring in fluid, dance-like movements. This art form emphasizes rhythm, agility, and coordination, promoting physical fitness and a deep sense of community and cultural connection. Whether drawn to its physical demands or rich history, Capoeira offers a dynamic way to explore martial arts and music while connecting with a diverse and welcoming community.

  • Blenheim, Marlborough - South Island
    Mondays and Wednesdays,
    5 to 6:30 PM at Marlborough Girls’ College Gym
    Contact: Wilson Robledo -
    Monitor Volta ao mundo
    Marlborough.cap@gmail.com
    _______________

    Wellington, North Island
    Mai Dojo

    129 Adelaide Road, Mount Cook.
    Monday: 5 to 6 PM
    Wednesday: 7:30 to 8:30 PM
    Friday: 6:30 to 8 PM
    Sunday: 11 am to 12 Midday

    Contact: Mestre Bira
    bira@maidojo.co.nz

    —————————

    Hawkes Bay - North Island
    Profess Carlos Miranda
    __________________
    Hamilton
    Professor Marcelo Capoeira

  • No prior experience is necessary to join our classes. We welcome beginners and provide personalized instruction to ensure everyone can progress independently.

  • Our Capoeira uniform is available for sale with Monitor Wilson.

    Group’s t-shirt with our
    logo plus Capoeira white pants (Abadas) with loops for Corda.

    If you don’t have our uniform yet, you can wear comfortable athletic clothing, such as plain white T-shirts, sweatpants, or leggings, suitable for Capoeira classes.
    Bare feet or flexible shoes are recommended for better movement.

  • Yes, Capoeira is suitable for children, although their family members or caregivers must train and supervise them alongside children under ten during classes.
    We offer classes to engage and teach in a safe and enjoyable environment.

  • In a typical Capoeira class, you can expect a beginner music session with our Monitor playing instruments such as Berimbaus, Pandeiros, Agogo, and Reco-reco.
    After that, a warm-up session will be followed by instructions on basic movements, sequences, techniques, and defence and attacking moves.
    The class will also cover basic acrobatics, spinning kicks, and other skills.
    Finally, participants will engage in partner drills, music, and roda (circle) practice.

  • During Capoeira classes, we provide musical instruments such as the berimbau, pandeiro, Agogo, and reco-reco.
    Learning to play these instruments is an integral part of the Capoeira experience.

    If you have your own Capoeira music instruments, please feel free to bring them to the class.

  • Yes, we offer private Capoeira lessons for individuals who prefer one-on-one instruction or have specific training goals. Private lessons are tailored to the student's skill level and objectives.

    $65 / Training session of 60 min.

  • You can sign up for Capoeira classes through our registration form by contacting us directly by text, email, or message.

  • Our Capoeira classes are led by an experienced Monitor who is passionate about sharing Capoeira's art and culture.
    We offer a supportive community environment, personalized instruction, and diverse class offerings suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Our Blog

Discover the Essence of Capoeira: More Than Just a Martial Art

Events

Graduation: The next Batizado & Troca de Cordas is going to be in the summer of 2025
Wellington, New Zealand