What’s your obsession?
‘Capoeira.’
What got you into it?
How often do you do it?
‘As often as I can – at least three times a week. Also, I have just returned from a week of intensive training with our master, Mestre Guimba, of Danca da Liberdade in London.’
Where do you do it?
‘With the Jersey Capoeira Association, usually at Fort Regent, or in the Parade Gardens, or at the beach if the weather’s good.’
Is it easy to get into?
‘Yes! Anyone can come and join in the classes at any level. It takes a lot of training to get really good and there are lots of aspects to the game (music, dance and acrobatics, as well as fighting) so there is something for everyone.’
What skills do you need?
‘It helps if you are strong, flexible and have good balance, but if not you will gain all of these things and more through capoeira.’
Is it popular in Jersey?
‘It’s growing in popularity and now we have the kids’ classes running as well it is getting much more well-known. The Brazilian Cultural Festival last year was a great success and was good publicity for the sport/art.’
What do you like about it?
‘I love the flexibility I’ve gained through capoeira, the group I train with – who are all really cool – and the combination of exercise, martial art, dance and music. I’m training to be an instructor so am leading the classes at the moment as good practice and learning to play the instruments and sing the songs in Brazilian/Portuguese.’
What do you need to do it?
‘All you need is to attend the training sessions and get sweaty. Anyone can do it and the level you attain is entirely down to your commitment to training.’
How do I get into it?
‘You can contact Magda on 07700 337557 to check class times and locations, or the ideal opportunity for newcomers is to join in with the workshops at this year’s Brazilian Cultural Festival, during the first weekend of July. Phone Magda for more info, or me (August) on 07700 700317.’
• Know anyone with an offbeat passion? Put them in touch with the jepGO… team
