Sydney Life

I have few regrets in my life. Keeping the tragic but-oh-so-fashionable-in-the 80’s fringe in year 7 is one of them. Not joining up to the capoeira club in O-week in first year is another.

Capoeira is that animated and fascinating dance/martial arts which has me absolutely mesmerised. It is also the new love of my life. I have recently started a course in Capoeira at Bondi Junction after I was seeking a new challenge. Salsa, bollywood and funk classes just didn’t cut it for me. Capoeira on the other hand has left me thirsty for more (and no, I am not getting paid by the Capoeira teacher to advertise!)

Its origins stem from 16th century when the Portuguese imported African slaves to Brazil. As a quest for liberation they practiced their self defence with one small problem – forms of self defence were outlawed by the Portuguese. They added some dance and celebration and presto, capoeira is born. (www.capoeira.com.au)

For those who still have no idea what I am talking about and who have never ventured to Bondi Beach to watch the spectacle, the following explanation might create some insight. Capoeira is a social game that involves kicking, swinging and striking, but strangely no violence!! (You can imagine the relief on my mother's face when I told her this. Little does she know that if you don’t duck quickly enough, there will be a premature trip to the dentist!) Capoeira requires the flexibility of a martial artist, the coordination of a dancer, the strength of an acrobat, the endurance of a runner, and the beat of a drummer. I suppose the most enticing thing about it all are the hot Brazillians with glistening sweat running down their bare chests…….but really, I’m not that shallow! That’s not the ONLY reason why I go to class each week ;)

So, I implore you all to have no regrets in life. O-week has passed but you can still be involved in any societies. Take up the challenge and join the capoeira club.