Capoeira

Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art with deep roots. The martial art sprung up from the slave quarters of Brazil. At the time, slaves were not allowed to practice self defense thereby making capoeira illegal to practice. In order to disguise its defensive tactics, slaves developed the art to appear as song, dance and acrobatics.

Despite its secretive roots, capoeira today is for everyone. Capoeira can be practiced by any person regardless of race, sex, age, size or shape. In the true spirit of the martial arts, capoeira builds confidence, discipline, creativity and fitness of both body and mind. Its diverse aspects draw people from all parts of the world for various reasons, including the music, dance, self defense, strenuous exercise and cultural aspects to name a few.

Ultimately, capoeira represented freedom to the slaves. In this day and age, capoeira still represents freedom: freedom of movement, freedom of thought, freedom of expression. For these reasons and more, capoeira continues to empower its devoted students.

Our Academy and Our Vision

The purpose of Capoeira Mandinga Houston is to promote empowerment, health, and community. As a group, we train and grow together. The vision is to grow a group of strong capoeira students, capoeiristas, where there is an exchanging of culture and knowledge and enriching people´s lives. Our intent is for this knowledge and experience to radiate out into the community and for our presence to be something which opens minds and breaks down barriers. Each of us makes a contribution such that the sum is greater than the parts, meaning our group is greater as a whole than as individuals.  We seek to be connected and involved with our local Katy and west Houston communities and look forward to our involvement with local non-profit organizations.

Our group is under the supervision of Mestre Paulo Batuta.

Mandinga

For a more detailed explanation on what "mandinga" means, please click here.