About Us
Capoeira is a blend of martial art, game, music and dance of Brazil, from the regions known as Bahia, Pernambuco, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais and São Paulo. The art-form started up in Brazil during the 16th Century, a result of the slave trading that took place in conjunction with the previously slaved native Indians. Since that time, Capoeira has since transformed into an artform enjoyed by people all over the world.
Participants form a "roda" (circle) and take turns playing instruments, singing, and 'playing' (sparring) in pairs in the center of the circle. The "jogo" (game) is marked by fluid acrobatic play, feints, and extensive use of groundwork, as well as sweeps, kicks, and headbutts. Less frequently-used techniques include elbow-strikes, slaps, punches, and body-throws.
Capoeira is a "game" - it is not a fight of only might and strength, but also a chess-game where you try to anticipate the moves of the other player and trap them with yours. It is a game that is enjoyed by both a beginner and a teacher, both a child and an adult. Capoeira brings people of all ages and backgrounds together - all levels and ages can form a "roda" together and share this Martial Art. The "jogo" - the game - can be a beautiful exhibition of strength and flexibility or a lightning-fast show of aggressive kicks and pure might.
Our Teacher
Eduardo Torres grew up in Northern California and was captivated by Capoeira in his teens. In the mid-1990's, one of his mestres moved to Florida and in 2000, Eduardo now "Instrutor Girino") followed him across the country to help with the new group in Florida. He had been teaching for several years at this point, and now had a chance to start his own school. In 2001 he started teaching the first Capoeira classes in Tampa. In 2002, he opened his first academy in Tampa and was graduated as a Capoeira Professor by Mestre Rony and Mestre Acordeon. In 2006, he became Professor Graduado.
He has traveled all over the US and Brazil to both learn and teach Capoeira. Today, his Tampa school is thriving and he is hoping to help some of his students realize their dreams of teaching Capoeira. As a dedicated father of two, he has started an after-school program at the academy to involve children in positive and healthy activities from an early age.
Professor Girino frequently participates in community, educational and cultural events, as well as outreach programs for at-risk youth and tries to share his love of Capoeira with those around him, hoping it will inspire them to improve their lives the way it helped improved his.
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- 813-728-7171