Capoeira is one of the most fascinating forms of martial arts known to man. It has a rich history and many purposes for many people. Capoeira was developed by African slaves in Brazil as a way to fight their captors. It has since become a national sport. It is characterized as being more of a game than a fight, and it is always accompanied by music, usually tribal drums and singing.

The purpose of Capoeira isn't to injure the person you are playing against; it is not a fight. It is more focused on showing superior skill. Capoeiristas often prefer to show the movement without completing it, enforcing their superiority - if an opponent can't dodge a blow at half speed, there is no purpose on throwing a blow at full speed.

Because this martial art was formed by handcuffed slaves, most of the basic Capoeira moves that are used are kicks, sweeps and head butts. This martial art also uses athletic moves, such as cartwheels to maneuver around an opponent, and evasive rolls and tucks to evade an opponent's strikes.

Capoeira is great exercise for the body and the soul. The music and motion can be uplifting for a person's spirits, while the combination of martial arts and dancing is an extremely effective workout.

Forms of Capoeira kicks have appeared in martial arts and wrestling video games, as well as major motion pictures, such as The Rundown and Meet the Fockers, as they are very athletic and aesthetically pleasing. There are many Capoeira schools across the United States that teach this art form.