many also state that capoeira was a way for slaves to train defense moves, while disguising them as a dance, not to attract unwelcome attention.

mixed martial arts are also popular in rio de janeiro, and people can often be seen practicing on the city's beaches, the soft sand acting as a natural throw mat, cushioning the fighter's fall.

brazilian jiu jitsu is a combat technique involving submission holds - it is rapidly gaining popularity world wide and it is to be included in the 2016 rio de janeiro olympics as an exhibition sport.