rio de janeiro is the city of sports - a variety of landscapes which include large monoliths, bodies of water and white sandy beaches make it ideal to practice just about any activity or exercise. various sports, in the city, are so deeply ingrained in the culture and history of brasil, they are recognized as cultural heritage along with being leisurely activities. capoeira is an example of an all around sporting activity that includes a rich history of brazilian music, story and physical movement - it is easily accessed in every neighborhood of the city, with many schools inviting new students to participate in this unique sport.

capoeira is regarded as a combination of martial arts and a dance as opposed to one or the other. it has strong roots in the afro-brazilian culture. in rio de janeiro it is possible to watch people practicing capoeira on the beaches, squares and other public spaces - easily recognizable by the characteristic white pants and shirts, participants form a circle around the two 'contenders' and accompany the action with singing and rythmical instruments