Capoeira and the Theory of the Multiple Intelligences

In college, I took a Movement Analysis class in which a very specific day stood out, and it had very little to do with our teacher being absent that day. :) The class was substituted by a teacher/professional dancer who focused the entire class period on one concept: the theory of the multiple intelligences. At this point in the semester we had already been discussing developmental patterns in babies, and how continual movement or even the lack thereof could have an effect on brain function, development, and even personality shaping. [ i.e. Those babies who spent more (supervised) "time on the belly" would benefit from motor development, visual development and eased social/public speaking anxiety]

The theory of the multiple intelligences, created by developmental psychologist Howard Gardner, further dissects the concept of brain development, introducing a psychological anatomy of not only how we process and store information, but also what we can do to fully engage and develop our brains. This theory suggests that not only do we learn in accordance with the intelligences we excel in, but we can also strengthen the others by exercising them and using them daily. In an attempt to evaluate my own “usage,” I reviewed my daily activities: school, work, read, dance class.. And then I realized (having been in my second year of training Capoeira), that there wasn’t a single activity that required me to engage or even challenge my full brain function other than: CAPOEIRA.

The intelligences are as follows and I have included an example of how Capoeira engages each:

Bodily / Kinesthetic Intelligence: Body Smart

Capoeira is a physical sport. Requires one to stretch, strengthen and learn our bodies, having as much kinesthetic awareness as possible.

Verbal / Linguistic Intelligence: Word Smart

Capoeira requires that one learn lyrics to music that tell of the history and culture of Capoeira and learn or become familiar with the Portuguese language (for non-native Portuguese speakers).

Logical / Mathematical Intelligence: Pattern Smart

Capoeira is a martial art and requires for one to be strategic, tactical in all defenses, attacks and maneuvers.

Musical / Rhythmic Intelligence: Music Smart

Capoeira requires one to learn to play a variety of symbolic rhythms on a variety of instruments, while singing at the same time.

Visual / Spatial Intelligence: Design Smart

Capoeira requires that one find the ability to solve problems involving spatial orientations, as in the roda, for example, in which the circle is a three-dimensional boundary in which the player’s opponent becomes an even more complex boundary.

Naturalist Intelligence: Environment Smart

Capoeira explores the idea of the environmental factor of energy! (Known as Axé). There are also movements named using naturalist imagery such as the “macaco” (monkey) or “meia lua de frente” (half moon from front).

Interpersonal Intelligence: People Smart

The social aspect of Capoeira is distinct from most movement practices as it is seen as a way of life, creating communities of people that look to each other as family. Local, national and international communication and travel are very important aspects of Capoeira lifestyle.

Intrapersonal Intelligence: Self Smart

Capoeira creates a space for an individual to become aware of their aesthetic preferences, opening the possibilities of building, modifying and reevaluating them, always striving to know where one is and how to improve.

Just a few more reasons why to keep training and why it is important for children to train! The world is always evolving and we should strive to find ways to evolve with it. Peace and love to all those who play and a big thank you to those who continue to share Capoeira with our communities.

Axé