Capoeira in London - a quick guide to this Brazilian phenomenon.

At a glance:

● Unique past-time
● Great exercise
● Very social
● Easy to find classes

The Lowdown

Capoeira in London, there’s nothing quite like it. A mixture of dancing, martial art and sport, it’s just about the most fun you can have while exercising. Pass through parks in any major city in the summer and you’re bound to find a capoeira class or two standing in a ronda (circle). Capoeira in London is particularly popular, with thousands of Londoners who decided to try something new and ended up getting hooked. One of Brazil’s biggest and most colourful exports, the idea is to keep yourself in constant motion as you execute moves on your opponent. Often there’s little force involved - the idea is to show your skill. The ginga is the building block of any capoeira class, check out this list of capoeira moves to learn more.

The Crowd

Young, active and open-minded would describe most capoeiristas. Capoeira classes offer much more than exercise. They teach you a skilled art and give you the chance to learn about the capoeira culture which goes all the way back to African slaves in Brazil in the 16th Century. They’re also great fun and as holding back is not an option, you’ll get to know the other members of your capoeira class in no time. 

The Cost

Capoeira in London has spread like wildfire over the last ten years, and you’ll have no problem finding a class for a price that suits you. The only equipment involved is your own body so it’s a pretty cheap hobby. If you want to get serious you can pick up a pair of capoeira trousers for as little as £30.

And Finally...

To get yourself in the mood for your TasterLab capoeira taster, check out these masterful capoeiristas in action. Who knows, maybe you’ll be up to this standard someday after starting capoeira in London.