Here are some Frequently Asked Questions regarding Capoeira . We are constantly updating this page…

I trained Capoeira before with another group can I still join ACER CapoeiraMundo ?

ACM Doesnt close its doors to anyone and we welcome Capoeiristas who have trained other styles and with other groups. However as we have a unique and  constantly evolving style of Capoeira . You may find many movements or rituals difficult to adapt to. However if you are dedicated and sincere you will eventually become a valued member of the ACM family.

Can I train with other groups?

It is not recommended to train with other groups on a regular basis as this could end up compromising your own individuality and make it more difficult to reach the Capoeira standard which you set for yourself. ACM are confident that our style and teaching is sufficient enough for any student, however an individual is free to attend workshops and gain whatever valuable knowledge he can. Capoeira is ultimately about freedom and we encourage an open mind that is free to learn

Is Capoeira effective on the Street?

Elements of Capoeira are effective in a violent situation. In Brazil Capoeira has always been the language of street fighting. When fighting in a real life situation then all the fancy stuff is unnecessary as it gets down to the basics;  striking and grappling. ACM teaches a unique style of street-fighting know as Briga de Rua . Mestre Celso in his youth was notorious for being a tough street fighter and his Mestre Artur Emidio is legendary for beating members of the Gracie Jiu Jitsu family. Ultimately Capoeira is about evasion and avoiding unnecessary violence. A true Martial artist is humble and avoids letting base emotions rule his judgement. The biggest battle for a Capoeirista is the defeat of his own ego…

How many Calories does a Capoeira class burn?

Similar to a tough aerobics class between 500 and a 1000 depending on your body weigh and fitness level

Are you a cult?

Surprisingly enough this is a question often asked, due to the uniforms, singing, close circles and rituals inherent within Capoeira. Capoeira is not a cult as cults work on the principle of exclusivity whilst Capoeira is completely inclusive . Anyone can be a Capoeirista , the only criteria required is dedication…

Will Capoeira affect my religious beliefs?

ACER CapoeiraMundo has Christian, Buddhist, Hindu,  Muslim, Agnostic and Atheist members. Everyone has their own path in life and this isn’t essential for Capoeira. Capoeira does have religious elements from a variety of historical sources but these  are mainly  aesthetic and rarely hold any religious value except for the those who choose to accept them. Some songs can have religious metaphors but you can choose not to sing them and ACER CapoeiraMundo tends to avoid any overtly religious motifs although other Capoeira groups may not hold the same philosophy…

Which style of Capoeira is good for me?

Some people prefer Regional and some prefer Angola . ACM style cannot be defined by any particular genre. Ultimately you will discover yourself which style you prefer in the process of your Capoeira development. Its quite common for newbies to prefer the faster acrobatic regional but later move onto angola when they become a more seasoned Capoerista. ACM covers all areas of Capoeira philosophy so we’re sure you will love training with us.

Do you have to be Brazilian to be good at Capoeira?

At this point in history most of the best Capoeiristas are Brazilian , because of the historical connection. However this is changing as Capoeira slowly becomes more and more popular. Just like one time all the Capoeira was mainly in Bahia and now it is widespread in Brazil in the same way , Capoeira has become a global phenomenon and who knows one day English Capoeira may be the best just like the  way Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is unbeatable . However the roots of Capoeira will always be firmly in its African Brazilian tradition…

Is it a good family activity?

Capoeira is an excellent family activity and great for strengthening family bonds.

How long will it take me to get good at Capoeira?

If you are dedicated ACM can guarantee you will be playing good Capoeira within six months , however Capoeira is a lifetime commitment and to become a mestre or teacher can take years depending on how much you sacrifice for the art.

Where can I buy uniforms and instruments?

ACM provides high quality uniforms at very fair prices. Please check our shop for details. We also have Capoeira training gear and instruments for sale. At ACM uniforms are required for official rodas and performances. So at some point you will need to purchase a uniform. We guarantee our uniforms are of very high quality and our primary goal is to help you train Capoeira so the uniforms will reflect that dedication.

Is Capoeira Expensive?

ACM prices are calculated at the market rate for martial arts and at a level we believe is affordable and encouraging for people to train Capoeira.

I’m afraid that everyone will be good and I’ll embarrass myself.

Capoeira is about expressing yourself , when you are ready the butterfly will emerge from the  cocoon. Eventually everyone becomes a performer in Capoeira.

Do I have to play in the Capoeira Roda?

ACM will encourage you to play from day one . The group is friendly and we do not allow egos to dictate the roda. ACM is inclusive and we are sure you will love playing Capoeira in the roda after just a few weeks with us. We ensure that every class has a roda and opportunity to play instruments , sing and Joga (play) at some level.

Is Capoeira good for my social life?

Absolutely! Many beautiful friendships and romances blossom in Capoeira. Just like any activity where you work as a group , Capoeira strengthens bonds.

I’m afraid of injury can I get injured?

As long as you warm up properly and train correctly. Injuries can become rare. In the initial stages you may feel sore from using new muscles and techniques but eventually you will get used to it. Our teachers are highly trained and understand bodies , we will do our utmost to prevent injuries to our best ability. However any physical activity is prone to injury if you are not careful. ACM works hard to eliminate any elements which can affect your physical health.

How can I find a a good Capoeira teacher?

Capoeira is diverse and unfortunately for some people its a source of revenue. This leads to unscrupulous people engaging in the art purely for financial gain. The best advice is gauge for yourself. Does the group have good roots with Brazilian Mestres . Is your teacher well known in Capoeira circles. Does your teacher actually teach? Does he make the time to correct you and help you improve? Are you improving?  There are some great teachers out there and some fantastic groups, look online and see if there are videos of students or is it just a lot of narcissistic teachers ? Ultimately the best group is the one with the best teacher student relationship,the most respect for traditions, the most free and finally the one that’s the most fun.

Is Capoeira too difficult for me ?

Capoeira is known as the rhythm of the body. Its as natural to the body as walking. Most of us never realise how complex a procedure walking is. At any given moment our whole body is balanced on a small part of the foot. Yet most people can walk. Why? Because we learn as children through repetition and observation and we train our body to adapt to the procedure. Throughout your life you can continue this process and make yourself a master of your own physiology. Capoeira is about making that journey to complete mastery of your body, its health and its motion. Anybody can become a Capoeirista its all about your own hardwork and respect for your body and its amazing abilities.

At what age can I start Capoeira ?