Macaquinho

1271

Pronounced “Ma-ka-keen-yoo”, is a fun movement with a lot of variations and creative entrances and exits.

Move Background

Macaquinho has an interesting use that makes it a favorite in small rodas. This move has two interesting properties: 1) it is low to the ground, and 2) it’s a compact movement that shields the head. In a very close Capoeira game, you can have a roda that is no more than six feet in diameter. In many cases it can get even smaller than this. Working in these tight spaces does not necessarily mean that the game slows down, or that you have to simplify the game. There are people who can still flip and play incredible games in small spaces.

Step by step guide

Macaquinho can be thought about as a movement tool.
If you don’t have a lot of space, but still need to move, then this might be what you need.
For example, in a small roda, a macaco might not be possible. There might not be enough space, but a macaquinho could work.
This movement is very similar to the macaco with the exception being that it is lower and less explosive.
The knees are in a more forward bent position while one arm is placed directly behind the balls of the feet.
Instead of jumping as with the macaco, the capoeirista lowers his/her external oblique onto his elbow and brings his other arm and legs over his head.
The macaquinho, translates to little monkey and is a combination of a macaco and queda de rins.