The best defense is to avoid conflict. In Capoeira there are few blocking techniques. Most Capoeira attacks are done with the legs and absorbing these attacks would be foolish. Instead the Capoeirista escapes the attack without being touched.
Many defensive techniques in Capoeira are simple motions that flow into other techniques without stopping. Other defensive movements are visually dynamic and elaborate in order to frustrate the other player. An escape, or Esquiva, should flow directly into a counter-attack or a take-down. It is important to use the escapes as an opportunity to get closer to the other player. Esquivas are used as entrances to get inside, under, or even over the other player’s space. This can disrupt their balance and cause them to fall or lose position without even touching them.
Capoeira escapes should be smooth and relaxed, never tense. The more relaxed the motion the swifter the recovery. Tensing the muscles wastes energy and makes the bodies reactions slower. Even in the face of danger a Capoeirista should be in control and calm, no matter how aggressive the other player is. The secret to great defense in Capoeira is simply to relax, stay moving and concentrate on the game.
It is important to have clear vision when fighting or playing. You should know where you are and where the other player is at all times. Even in the more elaborate escapes, the eyes are always on the other player. When you spin or flip the eyes should also look directly at the other player. By watching the other player’s eyes you can read their thoughts and see their mistakes. When they glance away, then you can attack or vanish.
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