Our Roots

Capoeira was forged over centuries by enslaved Africans in Brazil who trained to fight their oppressors while disguising it as a dance. This “dance-like fight” of mixes martial arts, music, dance, acrobatics, and culture as it brings people together to share positivity through movement and community. Salt Lake Capoeira’s leader, Mestre Jamaika, founded Volta Miúda Capoeira which is named after his Afro-Brazilian ancestral land. His parents were born in federally recognized quilombos (maroons), or villages originating from settlements of African-Brazilians who were enslaved. Mestre Jamaika works to honor the traditions and culture of his heritage as he continues to partner with his Afro-Brazilian community in their work for land rights and cultural preservation.

Our community values

Our goal is for everyone to feel welcome and respected when they take a capoeira or jiu-jitsu class. We encourage our students to come to class with love and not hate; to focus on what they can do and not what they can’t; to try to help and not to judge; and to share their happiness and help take away others’ sadness.

We seek to improve our physical and mental health as we work together to strengthen our community. We invite you to try a capoeira class and see how your life can be transformed. Learn more about our Community Values & Standards here.