What is Capoeira?

Capoeira is an ancient martial art created by African and Brazilian people long ago. It is a rich blend of body expression, fight, dance, music, and movement. Capoeira is steeped in history and culture, much of which was passed down from generation to generation through stories and songs.
Practioners say that capoeira is a mirror to life. Challenges faced in life are faced in roda. Lessons learned in life are reflected in the jogo (game). As one grows in capoeira, ones grows in life. As one grows in life, one grows in capoeira.

Two people play capoeira

About Our School

Our school was established in 1998 in the heart of the city. We believe strongly in community and unlimited possibility through creativity and body expression. We celebrate capoeira and wish to share it with everyone. We work with everyone who wants to participate in this ancient martial art with us. We sing. We dance. We learn. We play. We work hard and we have fun. Capoeira is for everyone and we encourage everyone to come play capoeira with us!

Sabiá showing the berimbau

Our Instructor

Professora Sabiá is our teacher and the director of the Capoeira Detroit academy. She has been training for over 18 years and teaching for 15 years. Sabiá started her journey in 2007 with Capoeira Detroit. In 2013, she became the head instructor and director of her academy, being officially promoted to the rank of Professora in 2025.
Her classes emphasize the connection of the music, movement and culture of capoeira. Recognizing that there is no separation of the three. Sabiá has lead workshops at martial arts events, held master classes at universities and taught movement and music seminars to children and adults across the country. Professora Sabiá is also a member of the Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors.

Instructor Sabiá Capoeira Detroit

Capoeira in Ferndale, MI

Thursdays 7:30pm & Saturdays 11:00am

Our most popular classes are held in the heart of Ferndale and are open to everyone of all experience levels. Beginners and advanced students are welcome to come. We focus on various styles and techniques of capoeira including music and instruments.

  • Location: Mejishi Martial Arts
  • Address: 247 W. 9 Mile Rd (Troy St Entrance)
2024 Capoeira Detroit event in Ferndale Michigan

Capoeira in St Clair Shores, MI

Wednesdays 5pm

Our newest class added to our metro Detroit schedule is just minutes from Lake St. Clair! Expect to get a great workout while practicing the fundamentals of capoeira. This class is small and geared toward beginners, so its the perfect class to join if you're getting started.

  • Location: Fresh Brazilian Jiujitsu Academy
  • Address: 23413 Greater Mack Ave. St. Clair Shores MI
Capoeira class at Fresh BJJ Academy

Capoeira in Rochester, MI

Tuesdays 8:15pm

Our class hosted in fLipSpot Gymnastics and Cheer is a beginner level class.
We offer a large training space and easy going atmosphere. fLipSpot is the perfect place for capoeira! With trampolines, soft mats, and foam pits training has never been so exciting!

Students under 16 are welcome with instructor's permission.

  • Location: fLipSpot Gymnastics & Cheer
  • Address: 500 E. Second St Rochester MI
AWMAI Capoeira Workshop Photo Credt Tih Penfil

Capoeira For Kids

Saturdays 9:45am - 10:45am

Ages 6 - 12

Brincadeira means to play like a child! Filled with energy, joy and happiness!
Our class focuses on the fundamentals of capoeira in a playful way. Through structured games, kids learn balance and body coordination which are important in a child's development. With capoeira techniques combined with singing and exercise, the children learn discipline, self-control and grow confidence in themselves.

  • Location: Mejishi Martial Arts
  • Address: 247 W. 9 Mile Rd (Troy St Entrance)
2024 Kids Batizado

We Teach Workshops

If you're considering a demonstration, master class or workshop, please drop a note to our school and let us know your vision!

Capoeira Detroit also partners with UPLIFT-ONE, a non profit organization that offers community outreach through a multitude of targeted programs including fitness, technology and cultural exchange.

Professora Sabiá Capoeira Detroit Photo Credit @hisoptics

Find A Class!


Visit any class in person to sign up! Classes are general level and all students are welcome!

Class Schedule Location Description Monthly Fee
Capoeira for Kids Sat 9:45am - 10:45am 247 W. 9 Mile Rd. Ferndale, MI
use Troy St. entrance
Ages 6 - 12 $60/person
Capoeira at fLipSpot Tue 8:15pm - 9:45pm 500 E. Second St. Rochester, MI Ages 16+ $59/person
Capoeira in St. Clair Shores Wed 5pm - 6pm Fresh BJJ
22520 Greater Mack Ave. St. Clair Shores MI
Ages 10+ $60/person
Capoeira in Downtown Ferndale Thu 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Sat 11am - 12:30pm
247 W. 9 Mile Rd. Ferndale, MI
use Troy St. entrance
Ages 13+ $80/person
Single Class Visitor Fee $30/person

Payment Policy

Payments can be made in person with cash, credit card, check, or money order.
Online payments such as Zelle, Venmo, Apple Pay, PayPal are also accepted.

All students are required and expected to pay for class. Class fees are due at the beginning of class prior to entering the floor for training. Students are responsible for attending classes they pay for. Classes paid for in advance must be attended before the end of the month. There is no carry-over month to month unless specifically discussed and agreed to prior to payment. There are no refunds.