Minnesota Capoeira Academy began in 2009 under the leadership of Instrutor Coruja, and grew from a small club to a thriving training academy.
Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian Martial Art that combines elements of self-defense, music, dance and acrobatics. The word "Capoeira" has many meanings. One of them means "bushes," loosely translated. It has its roots in the slavery days of Brazil. African people brought to Brazil to work were kept in slave camps called "Senzalas." Sometimes slaves were able to escape the Senzalas and reach the "Quilombos," which were communities of rescued/escaped slaves located in the heavily forested landscape of Brazil. in the Quilombos the first manifestations of Capoeira were born. It is said that the slaves developed the unique footwork characteristic of Capoeira as a result of being shackled. When the Quilombos would attack the Senzalas in an attempt to free slaves, some of the attackers would fall back into captivity on purpose, just to be able to teach the others the forbidden art that would allow them to fight for their freedom. Over 400 years later, Capoeira has spread around the world. It is enjoyed by by millions of practitioners that see it either as a way of life or as a hobby.
Our organization is a collection of students from diverse backgrounds that learn and practice the Afro-Brazilian art of Capoeira. Capoeira is an art that combines martial arts, dance, and culture, and provides an environment for people to develop themselves physically as well as mentally and emotionally.
We seek to share our passion for wellness and embrace cultural diversity.
