Freshman Chloe Kaneshige spends much of her free time practicing capoeira, a Brazilian art form that includes dance, fight, rhythm and music.

The origins of capoeira can be traced to Africans who were smuggled into and  enslaved in Brazil during the 19th century. Slaves used capoeira as an artistic way to disguise their training for combat.

“I thought this was a really cool concept. I also like the moves in capoeira which I think are really interesting,” said Kaneshige.

Kaneshige explains that the dance-like moves of capoeira are what attracted her most to the martial art.

“My dad wanted me to get into some martial arts, but instead of the regular karate and jiu jitsu, he wanted to go for something more my style. We chose capoeira because I like dancing and capoeira includes a form of dancing,” said Kaneshige.

Kaneshige sometimes faces challenges with the martial art.

“Before, I had a hard time learning just the basics and that frustrated me in the beginning. All the kids were better than me. However, I learned perseverance and patience through that. As I got older, I learned more and more,” said Kaneshige.

The art of capoeira, although it is not a widely known martial art, is historical and rich in culture. Through dance-like moves, capoeiristas learn discipline and combat.