Grand Rapids Capoeira Policies

We are all human beings first, everything else is secondary.

This is at the heart of what our school values. There is a hierarchy in Capoeira, just like any other martial art, but the moment we take our cords (belts) off our hips, we’re all the same. So we act accordingly.

While in class, Talento and other teachers will give instruction, conditioning, and other training direction. We expect those directions to be followed. This does not, however, give us free rein over your body. We will ask before using our hands to correct form or posture. Contact will only be made in the context of kicks, attacks, or takedowns. You are always allowed to ask questions as to why we are doing something.

Once class is done, that’s where our authority ends. Any additional training recommendations or event invitations are just that: recommendations and invitations.

For students who help teach or operate the group, those responsibilities are worked out before hand and are mutually agreed upon.

You don’t need to check your ego at the door, just check it in class

While you need to respect those who came before you (higher ranked students, instructors, mestres), refer back to the first policy. We’re all still people, and we’re all here to learn. There is no such thing as a move you “can’t do” to higher ranked students, Talento, or other instructors. If we taught you that attack, kick, takedown, whatever it is, we fully expect to have it thrown at us. If you catch us with it, then we did something right.

Likewise, expect to be caught with kicks, attacks, and takedowns. A lot of them. In Capoeira we show our skill by marking the kick, maybe with a little tap, but not by taking your head off. Your safety is important, but so is your growth.

Getting caught can be hard to swallow at times. Let’s be real, humility takes work. A lot of work. So don’t leave your ego at the door, it won’t learn out there.

Don’t train if you’re feeling sick

Not cool pre-COVID, definitely not cool now. If you’re feeling sick, stay home. Sharing is not caring.