| By :
William Gabriel
When it comes to self defense most people tend to think of the Asian martial arts first. Disciplines like Judo, Tae Kwon Do, Karate, are some of the most common programs, especially in the United States. However, there are many lesser known disciplines being practiced throughout the world. Brazilian martial arts self defense programs have a long history too. History Brazil's history in martial arts is long, and the forms of martial arts developed within the country are very distinct from the martial arts practiced within other systems. Capoeira, for exmaple is one martial art that originated in the country of Brazil as a form of self defense. Practitioners of Capoeira need a degree of flexibility to perform techniques such as head butts, kicks, elbow strikes and sweeps. A second type of Brazilian martial art program is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. As you might guess, this form did not originate in the country. Instead, it was adopted from the Japanese from and the Brazilians incorporated new styles and techniques. Some people refer to Capoeira as a martial arts dance, because it contains elements of music, athletic movements, combat theories, martial arts, and dance all in one discipline. Capoeira was developed approximately four hundred years ago by the slaves. They used it as a means of self defense. After that time, the techniques were employed for use in street protection. Practice of Capoeira was illegal, and for a long time its use was hidden and practitioners used nicknames to conceal their true identity. Capoeira as a Ritual Art In addition to martial arts self defense, Capoeira also holds a place or ritual and tradition in Brazil. The country's residents consider it a ritual celebration of art and freedom. Capoeira is extremely difficult to learn as it requires a variety of skills in dance, endurance, flexibility, and acrobatic fitness. Within the category of Capoeira there are several different subtypes. One of these subtypes, and the oldest version is referred to as Capoeira Angloa. Changes to this type were made and a ranking system was instituted. Capoeira Reginoal, a modernized version helped to popularize the discipline. One of these changes included the institution of a ranking system. As with other self defense martial arts, the completely history is not fully known, and experts disagree as to who actually started Capoeira. There are two individuals associated with its beginnings: Mestre Bimba and Mestre Pastinha. Bimba is credited as the first authorized teacher of the Brazilian martial art while Pastinha is known for opening the first Capoeira school in 1942. Both are responsible for the advancement of the form and for its eventual recognition throughout the world. Music The dance element of the discipline has made music an important part of the program, and Capoeira music incorporates voice and instruments that are used in a solo or choral call and response format. While Brazil's martial arts are not as well-known in the United States, they continue to grow in popularity.
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