I started training at Capoeira Brasil about 8 years ago as a young twenty something fresh out of college. I just wanted to workout while being able to celebrate good energy, music, movement and culture. Capoeira was a complete package of everything I enjoyed at that time. My life went through many stages and I stopped training through the years but something about capoeira always brought me back. I became committed to training capoeira about 3 years ago. Now a 30 something married woman with a young child. I was going through a lot at the time but decided instead of quitting like usual I was going to continue training through it all. There were a couple of times where I did want to just give up but Mestre Boneco would not let me and did what he could to help me continue to train even putting up a baby gate so that my son would not run into the training area. It was a challenge but boy am I glad I stuck it out. I was just now inspired to write a review because I had to turn around from going to class today because I forgot my son's dinner at home. He has been coming to class with me since he was six months old. When we got home he thought that I was just going to pick up his dinner and go back to capoeira. He was SO distraught when he found out that we weren't going back. Then I just flashed back to the time when he was going through a separation anxiety stage and would not let me go two steps into the training room without throwing a fit. NOW he can't stand not being there! Such and ah ha moment for this capoerista mommy. I love capoeira, I love CBLA and the people who train there. I love the intensity of the evening classes and also the contrasting laid back and tight knit family environment Saturday mornings during Tiny Tots (my baby boy takes the Tiny Tots class. It's GREAT!) and Parents Class. There is something here for everyone. Get a great workout and SO MUCH MORE! read more

After months of hearing how great of a school Capoeira Brasil is, I finally gathered the courage to join my co-worker for their 6pm Adult Beginners class, a decision I am very happy I made. Having absolutely zero exposure to Capoeira, and any martial art for that matter, I was very unsure of what to expect. When we arrived, the class had already begun their warm-ups, so my friend quickly introduced me to Mestre Boneco, saying that it was my first time, and then hurried off to join the class. The set-up of the school is quite simple. The office area, the main classroom are, and an outside classroom area. After filling out the quick info sheet at the front desk, I also joined up with the class, lining up next to my friend in the outside area. When the class was asked to file in for their usual drills, Mestre Boneco had appointed one of the more advanced students to show me the ropes of Capoeira. I felt very happy and fortunate that I'd have a one-on-one lesson. The girl that was instructed to help me was very patient and very encouraging, correcting and guiding me despite how poorly I was doing. Thanks to her help, any jitters and uncertainty I had previously dissipated. During our one on one, she introduced me to two types of 'escapes' and two types of kicks. So for the next 40 minutes or so, it was introduction of and refining form and technique. Mestre Boneco would come by from time to time to see how progress went, of which I'd freak out every time. The air and aura around Mestre Boneco is quite an intimidating one. The guy is uber nice but he's also very loud and full of charisma - which came off as intimidating to me. One thing that I really enjoyed and appreciated about the school was the strong sense of family and community there was amongst the staff and the students. This made me really want to belong and join in on the camaraderie. I would later be told that everyone there is given a nickname in Portuguese by Mestre Boneco. Some amusing and memorable ones were "Hello Kitty" "Without Pants" and "Buddah". All in all, I really REALLY enjoyed my experience there. I'm already making plans to sign up for a few months come this May. Can't wait till I get to go back and learn more. The school is located just north of the 10 Freeway off of Washington and is quite easy to miss. You have to make sure you know what you're looking for or else you'll drive right by it. There is very limited parking right outside the school in their lot, so park anywhere you can find a spot on the streets around the school. I would recommend to any and everyone to give this school a go - they're really nice, and a really fun bunch to be around. read more

Hands down the best academy in LA. They have classes every day except Sunday, and the class times are very convenient. For those who have their mornings available, they offer morning classes, and then there are also 3 or 4 class times in the evening. The kids capoeira program is especially amazing. Eletrico is a super great instructor, and he runs the kids programs at the academy. All the children have so much fun in his class, and they get a bit of everything within 1 hour: various capoeira movements, stretching, running, music, and even learn about the history of capoeira. So if you have kids who wanna sign up for capoeira, this is the spot!! On Saturday morning there is a class for parents at the same time as the kids class! read more

Obviously I am going to give this 5 stars...but not just because I teach there :) Capoeira has changed my life. There are many other capoeira schools here in Los Angeles and all schools are great and have their own speical energy to donate to the art of Capoeira. It just so happened that I ended up with Mestre Boneco and Capoeira Brasil. Mestre Boneco has changed my life in more ways than one and having him here in LA to teach lessons inside the classroom and outside of the classroom have helped me grow into the man I am today. I can attribute and link most of my successes in life to my training with him and CBLA. Besides his energy the group here at this academy help promote a healthy and vital atmosphere. Young or old, fit or starting- to- be -fit, you should give it a try. Most importantly we specialize now in children programs starting as young as 2 years old. That class is 2-4 years old, parents can come and particpate with the child. Then we also have a regular kids class as well as a parents class. Kids never get tired because there are so many elements of Capoeira that keep their interest be it music, history,gymnastics, martial arts, or culture. Come check us out and try a free class. You wont regret it! Matt aka Eletrico www.capoeirabrasil.com read more

I've been at CBLA for about 6 months now. The training with Mestre Boneco and his instructors has made vast improvements in my life. Not only have I lost weight, but I have toned up immensely without even lifting a single weight. I used to participate in track and field and triathlon and ran my body into the ground with lesser results. After ruining my knees, I decided to replace my running shoes with my abadas, and my body has never felt better. The people who train at CBLA are like family and always great you with a smile, hug, and a kiss on each cheek. I have more energy during the day and my stress is much lower. My boyfriend also likes the results ;) For beginners, don't shy away. It takes time and practice, but the more you go, the more you improve. It's intimidating at first when you see people doing crazy back bends and flips, but they help you each step of the way with the basic movements. If you are tired of the gym, this is definitely the place for you. read more

One of my best friends (who continues to train there as well) introduced me to Capoeira Brasil Los Angeles 6 years ago. Since then, I have not stopped training and it's taken me to CB schools here in Los Angeles, New York, Arizona, and Brasil. That being said, Capoeira Brasil is an institution that can be found all over the US and the world. If you're in a major city in the world, chances are there is a CB academy for you to train. There are several major reasons why after all this time I continue to train at CBLA and where you may find some parallels as to why you may want to try it: 1. Mestre Boneco: In addition to being a world renowned and revered capoeira Master, he is ultimately an extraordinary person you are automatically drawn to. His perspective on life and how Capoeira plays its part in it (and vice versa) is a life philosophy I'm just starting to fully understand as I grow in the capoeira and real world. He constantly says " I'm trying to build better human beings through the art of Capoeira." How deep and cool is that?! These facts along with many others are intangibles one gets exposed to as he/she trains and becomes involved with at CBLA. 2 Higher Level Students: When I first started training, there was and still is a group of higher level students who I looked at and said "if I could achieve their skill level one day, I think I'd be pretty darn good!" They were/are all very patient, skilled capoeristas full of knowledge and were ready to share it. They're also really good and cool people you want to be around and associated with in or outside of capoeira. 3. The CBLA Group itself: CBLA fosters a community feel to the art and you can't help but want to be involved, help out, and make the group better with your contribution. This to me is at the very essence of why our group is so successful, it's because of the people CBLA draws. 4. Capoeira as a whole: This martial art, culture, and way of life has changed my life and continues to influence it in profound ways that nothing else has been able to. There is an indescribable energy that draws you to keep coming back, train harder, and through this process - become a better person because of it. Without hesitation, I HIGHLY recommend training at CBLA to anyone who is seeking to improve themselves mentally, physically, spiritually, philosophically. read more

I've been training at Capoeira Brasil in Los Angeles for more than two years now. I initially started because capoeira is a great, full-body work out, and is a hell of a lot more fun than the gym. I was sore for days after the first time I tried it because it worked out muscles that I have previously neglected. Besides the physical benefits of this martial arts, I find capoeira to be very mentally and spiritually stimulating. After a stressful day at work, capoeira is the perfect remedy to ease my tension and lighten my mood. In my experience, I always leave capoeira class happier than when I arrived. There is a strong sense of community within the school of Capoeira Brasil, as everyone here is very friendly. The great energy and camaraderie here are reason enough to keep coming back! The demographics of people who train at this studio are widely diverse, with people of all ages, colors, and sizes. Adult classes are offered 6 days a week, while kids classes are offered 4 days a week. On Saturdays, there is even a "tiny tots" class for toddlers ages 2 and up! Capoeira is a great way for kids to develop discipline, determination, respect, and self-confidence. I have been assisting with the kids classes on Saturday mornings, and have personally witnessed kids grow their self-esteem as they open up and step out of their comfort zones. Capoeira Brasil in Los Angeles really offers something for everyone. Its a physical, mental, and cultural experience that you wont find elsewhere! First class is free, so its definitely worth trying out at least once! read more

My four year old daughter loves sports and anything physical. She loved her first class and cannot wait to come back. The teachers are very good with the kids and i love how the teachers take co trol of the class and you dont have parents hovering over their kids. read more

where do I start? I have only been training capoeira for 6 months and I am totally hooked! Best butt workout ever and so much fun. I can never go back to the gym again. The people here are really friendly and it does feel like a community. They also have good celebrations! We once had a batizado where we danced around in the streets just like carnivale in Brasil. I cannot wait to go to class and I am really trying to go more often. One wish: that they have morning classes so I can go to capoeira before work. read more

I've taken classes with Capoeira Brasil for nearly two years now, and I can't thank my girlfriend enough for introducing me to this fascinating, unique, and fun martial art (and also to the Capoeira Brasil group itself). I train with Capoeira Brasil's class in Eagle Rock, where instructors Pavao and Chegado teach 3 times a week; my only regret is that I can only make it once a week! My general impression of other martial arts schools is that there's a certain air of intimidation, but there's none of that here. All the teachers and higher cords (and everyone else actually, including Mestre Boneco himself) are so warm, welcoming, and patient... and I ought to add, skillful. The school primarily teaches Benguela, a medium-paced style. This allows you to develop form and flow, which I really like. The game of capoeira is poetry in motion, if you've ever seen it, which is one of the reasons I like it so much. I would rather devote my time to this athletic, dynamic, and expressive martial art than work on kicking through a pile of bricks.. although that would be kinda cool.. but I digress. If you're looking into martial arts, I can't recommend capoeira enough. If you're looking for a school, you won't find one better than Capoeira Brasil... just check out their website and Wikipedia entry. read more

The best community, capoeira and people in LA I am so happy I found them. Highly recommend it for kids and adults, My 5 year old and train there regularly and couldn't been happier for that choice :) read more

We are very fortunate to have Mestre Boneco and Capoeira Brasil. Mestre Boneco brings a extensive amount of knowledge and passion about Capoeira. He deeply cares for each and every one of his students, treating all like members of his family. Capoeira itself is a unique and fascinating martial art. After years of exploring various Japanese and Chinese martial arts, I have found that Capoeira and the Capoeira Brasil worldwide family is truly where I belong. read more

Today was our second time- one of my boys was having such a difficult time joining class. The instructors were so kind and patient. At one point, one picked him up and just talked to him and walked around a bit. The other instructor also took time to check in with him. It's exceptional when instructors aren't just great at educating children but show they really care about the kids they teach. Also, the community is so welcoming- felt very much at home with the families sitting and watching class. One mom shared with me that it took her son 6 months to feel comfortable joining the class. Very sweet of her to share with me. The other kids were pretty cool too! I watched 2 other classes happening at the same time. Great vibe, bustling and exciting- everyone is happy to be there! Looking forward to next week :) read more

I came here to try Capoeira for the first time its not close to my house but I'm meeting some friends who wants to try it too. Sadly they were late so I just jumped in to their warm up which is pretty good, I really liked the warm ups that they did cause its not a boring stretching shit that I usually skip when training. And then we were taught about the basics and it was fun for me for some reason it wasn't really tiring at all even though i already did my workout earlier. After the lesson we were invited to watch the RODA which is like the sparring and it was awesome i was standing there clapping (hands got pretty numb) and just watching. I didn't eve bother to talk to anyone cause i was so focused on watching the moves. All in all i would totally go back here only if its like 25 mile away from me. read more

the mestre was (is?) an actor/model in brasil. enuff said.... ok ok. there's more...capoeira in general is a *work-out*! but it's fun and beautiful and energetic and captivating. imagine all that but with a cherry on top b/c mestre boneco runs his class with serious energy and enthusiasm and that latin flair that only a latin actor/model can give ;). i dunno if beautiful people attract other beautiful people, but all the other capoeira classes i've tried had normal people in it. his class had other beautiful people (along w/ normal ones too). that's why i was in it. :) read more

This is a great place to train or start capoeira! There are so many experienced teachers and the environment is ideal for growing as a student. There are classes for beginners to advanced in capoeira, as well as for kids, and general conditioning if you just want to tone up or lose weight. I love coming here and have done so for many years! The people and community are great. read more

Love love love! As other posters have said, CBLA is a wonderful community of people who respect capoeira as a martial art and really care about one another. Cheesiness aside, it's a great workout for all, including kids! As the CBLA family has grown, they have incorporated classes for toddlers and parents to complement the youth and adult programs. I had a baby last year and am on a break right now, but I hope to return soon and bring my little guy into the action. @ previous poster: I think that there are morning classes, so get your train on before work too! read more

I've been training with Mestre Boneco and Capoeira Brasil Los Angeles for nearly 7 years now. I still remember my first day when I went with the intention of only watching a class. Fortunately for me, Mestre Boneco had other intentions. He talked me into actually taking a class, and once I was in there, I never stopped coming. Now the academy is my second home and the people who train there are my extended family. The classes are amazing and the level of instruction is top notch. Classes are challenging, but there's always Mestre Boneco or an instructor to keep you motivated to work to the next level. The class schedule is very accommodating, with day, evening and weekend classes and special classes for kids, parents and beginners. Anyone who is interested in taking Capoeira classes could not ask for a better, more welcoming place to train! read more

I've been training capoeira throughout California for about five years, and at least two of those five have been at Capoeira Brasil in Los Angeles. No matter where my work takes me, I find myself returning to the CBLA community. It never ceases to amaze me that with each visit I observe a stronger, more vibrant community forged through everyday challenges and unique obstacles. The music in particular seems to knit the group together; the ancient instruments coupled with tribal rhythms and modern lyrics are inspiring and therapeutic. The kids program in particular is amazing. On Saturday mornings the parents and the children take classes simultaneous, a celebrated Saturday ritual. While I've been a coach, lifeguard and teacher for over 8 years, assisting 'Electrico' with the children's program for around a year has taught me many valuable lessons. In that time, I have watched the children grow as capoeiristas and begin the process of developing into responsible and considerate young adults. The 2-4 year olds who have participated in a few months of the 'Tiny Tots' class develop amazing listening and coordination skills. The children in the regular classes are capable of an impressive range of gymnastics, kicks and self defense positions. The real gem of these classes is the presence of the more advanced children who often take initiative to make new students feel welcome and comfortable while developing their skills. Give it a try! You won't be disappointed. read more

I took capoeira here for a year and a half before school and work caught up with me and I had to quit for a while. All the instructors are really knowledgeable and the students are very friendly. The studio feels like a family and the workout you get is incredible! I have done many different sports throughout the years and capoeira is definitely one I'd stick with! Mestre Boneco is sweet and funny and really pushes you to learn and to try things you never thought you could do. I can't wait to start up again!! read more

Amazing classes. Amazing people. Finding this academy has brought me happiness and true physical, mental, and spiritual strength that I craved for. I've been training here for little over a year now and always enjoy it. read more

Our daughter has been taking Capoeira classes here for two years. She started in Tiny Tots at 2.5 and I was shocked to see her at that age already be so passionate about an activity. But you soon learn Capoeira is more than an activity and Capoeira Brasil is more than a school. At Capoeira Brasil she has learned the fundamentals of rhythm, instrumental skill, movement, language, focus, and more through a community of joyous, loving, passionate teachers, students and parents. She still comes home eager to continue what she has learned in class and practice on her own which I think says it all. Capoeira has become a significant thread in her life and we envision continuing at Capoeira Brasil for many, many years to come. read more

I'd never done a martial art before and really just checked this place out because one of my coworkers trained here and I had nothing better to do. I had no idea how Capoeira would become a part of my life and the friends and memories I would make learning this fluid and acrobatic art. Others shop around for academies to train at but I stumbled on to a great one first try! The instructors are friendly and knowledgeable and Mastre Boneco is the most prominent ambassador of modern capoeira around. It is truly a privilege to learn from someone of his caliber and he teaches regularly. If you're looking for a great work out and a community of good people look no further. read more

I am so thankful for the community CBLA brings to LA. I have been to many different Capoeira classes around the U.S. and CBLA is definitely up there with the best of them. read more

It's a place to grow.. Mentally and physically. This place changed my life for the better. All the instructors are amazing and very dedicated. Capoeira is a very different martial art that is on a whole other level. Once you walk in ... Done! You won't want to leave. Strongly recommend this place to whoever wants to learn Capoeira. read more

Love the amazing Axé (energy) and people. Haven't practiced in 5 years because of 3 knee surgeries, but when I pop a kid out, they will be growing in this art! read more

Capoeira Brasil has become my home away from home. I checked out a couple of academies when I moved to LA from New York and was instantly sucked in to the community and energy of this place. Capoeira is fun, it's challenging, it's totally engaging mentally and physically and the people here are great. It's definitely a place to check out, bring a change of clothes and "jump in" (as Mestre would say). He takes the time to get to know everyone by name and he and all of the instructors here are great. They connect to the students and work hard to preserve the traditions of the art form while tending to your individual needs. If it wasn't for finding Mestre Boneco and the students of Capoeira Brasil I wouldn't still be here in LA. read more

For those of you out there who want to experience capoeira as the martial art that it is...this is the place! Mestre Boneco teaches capoeira as a martial art, focusing on good body positioning, proper posture, excellent defense, and powerful striking and take-downs, while still keeping the free-form movement that makes capoeira unique, and he does it in a way that makes it fun for beginners and non-martial artists. Mestre Boneco knows what he's doing. You can tell he's been doing this for a long time. read more

Hi, I played capoeira with Capoeira Brasil and Mestre Boneco quite a few years ago. I've had capoeira in my heart ever since, just not in my schedule. I want to see if I can get into contact with some of the people I played with. If you've been around for a while, you might remember me. My name is Monica (or Seriema) and I wanted to say hi to Mestre Boneco, his wife Ana and their sons, and everyone else that may still be around from the old school days. I hope everyone is doing well. Congratulations to Magali!!! I have the best photo of the two of us at Carnival! Hope to hear from someone who might remember me. read more

GRUPO CAPOEIRA BRASIL is one of the most visible Capoeira entities, recognized all over this planet. We have a revered and harmonious relationship with most groups around the world as established by the experiences of our fellow students, as they travel. Visitors seek us out specifically for classes when they come to the L.A. area. That indeed is an honor that we do not take lightly. One thing I try to stress is that we are extremely lucky, in the Los Angeles area, to have Mestre Boneco with us for most of the year. Those who visit, when he is here, will benefit learning from a livining legend, who is gregarious and larger than life, yet he is humble in his knowledge and will graciously share it. When he is unfortunately not around, we have Instructors and other high level cords who amply teach his style of Capoeira efficiently. Next, I will speak to the "young-at-heart". Capoeira can be a demanding martial art form. However, with proper training, ample stretching and learning the limitations of your body, anyone, AND I MEAN ANYONE, can learn and play Capoeira til the day you can't move no more. I am learning to get myself back in the game so I can continue to enrich my life. Capoeira is a Martial Art, first and foremost. But, it is SO MUCH MORE!!!! It is a culture with language, music, garment, movement. If approached with reverence, it will be a part of your DNA til your last breath, and beyond........ Please join me in this special gift that was given to me. You will not regret it. read more

Culture, language, martial arts, music, athleticism AND fun... Yes, it exists in a single Capoeira Brasil class! Not much can hold the attention of our two young children, but this place consistently does. For almost 5 yrs., our daughter and son have been enjoying this great community full of amazing, talented and dedicated instructors and capoeiristas. It is a one-of-a-kind experience, which we see inspiring and positively influencing our children's development. read more

Capoeira Brasil has changed my life! I've made strides in my personal development that I know would have otherwise been delayed, assuming that they'd have otherwise occurred at all. I've made friends all over the world. The instructors at CBLA are diverse and engaging. I've been encouraged and challenged throughout my journey. Mestre Boneco is one of the most inspiring people I've ever met. He has been and continues to be a mentor to me. Come check things out on a Friday night (roda is at 7pm) and come back Saturday morning for a class (first class is free). Capoeira is more than a bit mystical in and of itself, but the energy (axé) of Capoeira Brasil is life-changing! From three-year-olds attending our tiny-tots class to grandparents attending our adult classes, CBLA will demonstrate that capoeira is truly an art for all! read more

I started training at Capoeira Brasil about 4 months ago. I've always been fascinated with capoeira and anti gym, so when I realized I needed to get more active, I decided to give it a go. The great workout drew me in, but a few other things kept me coming back. There is a great sense of community here. Everyone is quite friendly and eager to help out. I've never been made to feel bad or embarrassed for not being able to do something because I'm new (or otherwise.) The instructors are all quite knowledgeable, not only about the art, but about how to teach it. There seems to be a great curriculum in place. Additionally, there is a great focus on culture. It's not just about kicking and doing cartwheels, equally important are the history and music associated with capoeira. It's a great all around character building experience. Also, the blond lady behind the front desk is very nice. read more