Capoeira Senzala Leicester is a gym located in Leicester, New Zealand, that specialises in the Brazilian art form of capoeira. Capoeira is a unique combination of martial arts, acrobatics, dance, and music that is played as a game. At Capoeira Senzala Leicester, everyone is welcome to come and train, regardless of age, gender, or skill level.
The gym was established by two passionate capoeiristas, Tim El-Sheikh and Christos, who have been practising capoeira since 2001. They were guided by Mestre Gato and Professor Carousel, both influential figures in Group Senzala Anglia. Before joining the group, Tim and Christos spent two years learning and practising capoeira on their own, with the help of their friend Julio, an experienced capoeirista from Brazil.
Group Senzala, founded in 1963 in Rio de Janeiro, is one of the most renowned capoeira groups in the world. It has gained recognition for its exceptional masters and instructors who have dedicated their lives to teaching capoeira. In Great Britain, Group Senzala was introduced in 1971 by Nestor Capoeira, but it truly flourished in 1989 with the arrival of Mestre Gato.
At Capoeira Senzala Leicester, the focus is on providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone interested in learning capoeira. From absolute beginners to seasoned mestres, all are encouraged to join. The first class at the gym is free for anyone who books it through their website.
The gym offers a variety of classes to cater to different skill levels and interests. Whether participants are looking to improve their martial arts techniques, develop acrobatic skills, or simply enjoy the music and rhythm of capoeira, there is a class suited for them. The instructors at Capoeira Senzala Leicester are highly trained and experienced capoeiristas, including Mestre Gato, Mestre Pedro, Christos (Espirro), Myles, Andy (Menino), Glyn (Esquilo), Christina (Mochila), Neil (Noodle), Jason (Poeta), and Tim (Caboco).
To enhance the overall experience, the gym also hosts regular events such as batizado, a ceremony where students receive their cordas (belts), and features a gallery showcasing memorable moments from past events. Additionally, they share “Songs of the Month” on their website, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the rich musical tradition of capoeira.
Capoeira Senzala Leicester firmly believes that without music, there is no capoeira. Therefore, their classes not only focus on the physical aspects of the art form but also embrace the music and culture that make capoeira unique. By participating in classes at Capoeira Senzala Leicester, individuals can learn a new skill, improve their fitness, and immerse themselves in the vibrant world of capoeira.