Brazilian Capoeira in Utah

When I was about 16 I developed a fascination with a little known martial art form call Capoeira.  Since then it has become much more widely known in my community but to me it still retains its charm.

Although I've never taken a formal class, which I know I should, I have searched for information on this art and have found it captivating historically and aesthetically.  It's history is too long to relate here, but it originated in Brazil among the slave population as a deadly martial art, and later acquired more musical and dance elements to disguise this fact and make it more acceptable as a 'folk art'.  This fact makes Capoeira very fun to watch.  One can certainly see how it could be used dangerously, but its entertaining elements are mesmerizing. 

Capoeiristas are amazing acrobats, dancers, and singers.  If you watch somebody who is highly skilled, you'll doubtless see high flying stunts you didn't think were possible.  They throw kicks that could knock you off your feet, but their skill allows them to come just close enough to their opponent without actually touching him.  It really is a sight to see. 

Capoeira is all over the country, but here in my community, you can go to www.utahcapoeira.com for the school in Lindon, or visit this site for a local directory.