What to Expect in Your First Month

Starting Capoeira can feel both exciting and intimidating. In your first 30 days, you’ll learn the foundation of Capoeira Angola, its rhythm, movements, and songs. Classes are designed for all levels, so you don’t need martial arts or dance experience.

👉 If you’re brand new to Capoeira, you might first want to read: What Is Capoeira Angola?

Week 1: Learning the Ginga

Your first draw to Capoeira might have been the amazing acrobatics you saw in a movie or during a demonstration. It’s natural to want to jump straight into those moves, but, like anything, we have to learn to walk before we run. The ginga is the foundation of Capoeira. It looks like a rhythmic sway, but it sets up every escape, attack, and feint. Alongside it, you’ll learn simple esquivas (escapes) that teach you to move fluidly and safely. As you progress, you’ll discover that mastering these fundamentals makes all the advanced, eye-catching movements fall into place with meaning and control.

Week 2: Music and Rhythm

Capoeira is as much about sound as movement. You’ll start hands on with the instruments in rhythm, singing call-and-response songs, and will likely try the berimbau or pandeiro. Don’t worry if singing feels unfamiliar, everyone starts together, and the energy of the group carries you forward.

👉 Curious about the instruments? Explore our upcoming guide to Capoeira music and songs.

Week 3: Playing in the Roda

By your third week, you’ll enter the roda; the circle where Capoeira comes alive. Ultimately, it’s not about winning or losing. It’s about dialogue: moving, tricking, flowing with your partner while the music leads. Even beginners can join with basic steps.

Week 4: Building Confidence

In your fourth week, you’ll notice more ease in your movements and more courage in your singing. The focus shifts from “Can I do this?” to “How can I express myself?” You’ll also get to watch how more experienced players use malícia(cunning) and mandinga (trickery), planting seeds for your own growth.

FAQs for Beginners

• Do I need to be flexible?

  • Not at all. Flexibility comes with practice. Start where you are.

• What should I wear?

  • Comfortable workout clothes. Most groups wear white pants, but for your first classes, a t-shirt and sweatpants are fine.

• Do I need to know Portuguese?

  • No, but you’ll pick up some words through songs and commands.

• Is Capoeira safe?

  • Yes. Classes focus on control and respect. You’ll learn to protect yourself as much as you learn to move.

How to Start in Orlando

The best way to understand Capoeira is to experience it. At Capoeira Angola Palmares Orlando, we welcome new students every week. Whether you’re seeking fitness, culture, or community, Capoeira offers all three in one practice.

👉 See our class schedule

Your first 30 days of Capoeira are about more than movements. They’re about learning to listen; to the rhythm, to your partner, and to yourself. Step by step, you’ll find your place in the roda and your voice in the song.