Capoeira Etiquette

Many capoeiristas will tell you that capoeira is a way of life. Attending a capoeira class or a capoeira academy is like walking into another culture, with its own set of rules, rituals, tradition, history and even language.

Not unlike visiting a foreign country, it would serve visitors well to use the most polite language in their repertoire and be on their best behavior upon entrance into a capoeira class. And perhaps the most important point to keep in mind when stepping into the world of capoeira is: respect your elders.

The vast majority of capoeiristas train under a capoeira group and it is the group that sets the blueprint for how capoeiristas conduct themselves. While there are similarities among groups, there are also differences that make each group unique.

Capoeira groups function with a ranking system made up of colored belts, or cordas (not unlike karate) and each group has its own colored code. Anyone with more time in capoeira, or with a higher corda than you, is your elder.

Some capoeira groups will require you to come to class in comfortable, all white clothing, some will let you pass with just a white t-shirt (even if your pants are colored), and others won’t insist on any color requirements at first. But capoeira groups will expect those who train regularly to eventually invest in a uniform and wear that uniform to classes. Shorts are generally always unacceptable.

Some capoeira instructors are stricter than others Arriving late to class may mean a few extra sets of pushups, or nothing at all. But speaking to the highest ranking corda before starting class will clarify the situation.

Beginners may be asked to take their place at the end of a line, but this shouldn’t be mistaken for disrespect. Higher ranking cordas generally have more time in capoeira and are able to set an example for “younger” capoeiristas.

Members of different capoeira groups greet each other in different ways. Some of the most popular greetings are salve (which may sound like “salve” or “sal-vey” depending on the region and who’s speaking) and axé (“ah-shay”). These salutations are also used to say goodbye, and in some cases are also said when simply stepping out of the training area to get a drink or use the washroom.

The capoeira roda–the circle where capoeiristas play against each other–also comes with certain behavioral codes, some of which vary depending on capoeira group. While forming a roda, capoeiristas try to avoid large gaps in the roda; the circle should be continuous. The instruments should be unobstructed at all times and everyone participating in the roda is expected to contribute energy, whether it be by playing instruments, singing, clapping or playing against others in the center of the roda.

Watch what the elders do. While some groups allow you to enter into a game from wherever you’re standing in the roda, other groups require you to enter the roda from either side of the grouped instruments when buying a game. Some groups require you to enter from only one side of the instruments, and in other groups, buying the game is only permitted under direction from the highest corda in attendance. In the latter case, the only way to enter the roda to play is by crouching in front of the instruments with your opponent and waiting until the previous game ends.

The unwritten “rules” of capoeira are extensive and vary depending on a number of factors. And because capoeiristas are divided into groups that serve as governing bodies, it can be difficult to find consensus with regard what is expected and what isn’t acceptable. The safest route is to observe and ask questions.

Alison Isaac is a writer/editor looking for any number of diverse freelance opportunities. I have experience writing for print and online.