BCC

What is Capoeira?

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that blends dynamic movement music and culture. It was created by enslaved Africans in Brazil as a form of resistance, self-expression and survival under slavery and remains deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian history and traditions. Through ritual song and movement capoeira preserves cultural memory and strengthens community. The art is known for its fluid acrobatic movements combining strength agility rhythm and strategy. Practicing capoeira improves balance coordination flexibility cardiovascular health and mental focus. Music is central to the experience the berimbau, songs and rhythms guide the game shape the energy of the roda and connect practitioners to the ancestors and the deeper meaning of the art.Capoeira is accessible to people of all ages backgrounds and levels of physical ability offering space for both athletic expression and personal growth. Today capoeira is practiced worldwide bringing people together across cultures while honoring its Afro-Brazilian roots and living traditions.



Frequently Asked questions

Capoeira looks Hard! can I do capoeira?

Capoeira is for everyone. Just start where you are and you will surprise yourself! We have practitioners of all ages and genders at our academy. There are many facets of capoeira (movement, music, culture, history, leadership) in which practitioners can excel.

What do I bring to my first class?​

Bring a water bottle, you will definitely be sweating! For your first few classes just come in comfortable clothes you can move in. We don’t recommend shorts or socks. If you must wear shoes please wear non-marking shoes meant for fitness activities. If you decide to stick with us we have uniforms!  

Can Kids do capoeira?

YES! Capoeira is very playful and well suited for young people. We have age-appropriate programs for pre-schoolers kids and teens.  

What is with the belt colors?​

Our lineage uses the colors of the Brazilian flag. The colors Green Yellow Blue & White indicate a progression through one’s training with various combinations of these colors along the way to indicate in-between levels.  

Is there a start up deal?

You bet! We often have a very affordable Introduction to Capoeira series. If you’re just wanting to try things out your first class is free!  

What is a batizado?​

A batizado is an event put on capoeira academies to formally recognize students who have decided to continue their training. At Berkeley Capoeira this often involves the presentation of a new color belt or cordão.  

what is your lineage?

Great question! As a collective we are teachers from several lineages who have chosen to work together due to our alignment about teaching practices and values.   

Register for Class

We are located at: 

The Capoeira Arts Foundation building

 1901 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley CA 94702