Capoeira Regional

What is Capoeira Regional?

Capoeira Regional is one of the two main styles of Capoeira, the other being Capoeira Angola. It was developed in the 1930s by Mestre Bimba (Manoel dos Reis Machado) in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Mestre Bimba sought to create a more structured and systematic approach to Capoeira, which he believed would help gain acceptance and legitimacy for the art form in Brazilian society. Here are some key aspects of Capoeira Regional:

1. Historical Development: Mestre Bimba developed Capoeira Regional by incorporating elements from traditional Capoeira Angola and adding influences from other martial arts and combat sports. His goal was to create a more effective and efficient fighting style while also promoting Capoeira as a respected cultural practice.
2. Movement and Style: Capoeira Regional is characterized by faster, more athletic movements compared to Capoeira Angola. It emphasizes high kicks, acrobatics, and dynamic techniques. The movements are often more upright and less grounded than those in Capoeira Angola.
3. Ginga: The ginga in Capoeira Regional is typically faster and more pronounced, serving as the foundation for the fluid transitions between offensive and defensive movements.
4. Music and Instruments: Music remains a vital component of Capoeira Regional, though the rhythms and songs can differ from those in Capoeira Angola. The berimbau still leads the music, accompanied by instruments like the atabaque (drum) and pandeiro (tambourine). The music sets the pace and style of the game.
5. Roda: The roda in Capoeira Regional is similar to that in Capoeira Angola, with participants forming a circle and engaging in the game. However, the interactions within the roda in Regional can be more dynamic and combative, reflecting the style's emphasis on martial effectiveness.
6. Structured Training: Mestre Bimba introduced a more formalized training regimen for Capoeira Regional, including specific sequences of movements known as "sequences de Bimba" or "Bimba's sequences." These sequences are designed to teach fundamental techniques and strategies systematically.
7. Graduation System: Mestre Bimba also implemented a graduation system with colored cords (cordas) to signify a practitioner's level of skill and knowledge. This system helped formalize the teaching and learning process in Capoeira Regional.
8. Philosophy and Discipline: While Capoeira Regional places a strong emphasis on physical prowess and combat effectiveness, it also upholds the values of respect, discipline, and camaraderie. Mestre Bimba emphasized the importance of character development and ethical behavior among his students.
9. Adaptability: Capoeira Regional is known for its adaptability and ability to incorporate new techniques and influences. This flexibility has contributed to its widespread popularity and evolution over time.

Capoeira Regional has played a significant role in the global spread and popularization of Capoeira. It offers a dynamic and athletic approach to the art form while maintaining a deep connection to its cultural roots and traditions.

Related Article: Capoeira: The Afro-Brazilian Martial Art That Blends Dance and Acrobatics