HI.

Shout out to Contra Mestre Tom Polonsky for this inspiring video. His dedication to the craft is evident, and it serves as a motivation for practitioners to elevate their skills. Check out his YouTube channel for tutorials and performances suitable for all levels of practitioners, whether you are a novice just starting or an experienced capoeirista looking to refine your technique. Now, I’m not trying to criticize this video in any way…

However, I do have something to say about “useless techniques” in Capoeira, or any martial art for that matter.

And that is this…

The BEST technique executed at the WRONG TIME, will never work. However, the WORST technique, executed at the RIGHT TIME, will work.

In various discussions within the martial arts community, some techniques are often dismissed as impractical or ineffective; however, learning to play Capoeira Angola has taught me that every movement has its place and purpose, serving not just as a physical skill but also as a means of expressing creativity and individuality.

If you think a technique is useless, you should work with it, think about WHY it may have been created in the first place, try it out in different scenarios, and consider its potential applications beyond the obvious… because sometimes, techniques that appear insignificant at first glance can harbor untapped value.

Engaging with these methods can lead to unexpected insights, prompting you to experiment with them in real-life situations that may arise in your daily life or during critical moments. Who knows? Maybe that same “worthless” technique may save your life one day, offering a solution when you least expect it, proving that every approach, no matter how trivial it seems, can contribute to your skill set and preparedness in unforeseen circumstances.

By consistently trying out various techniques and integrating them into your routine, you not only broaden your horizons but also cultivate a mindset that values creativity and adaptability, essential traits that enhance your ability to navigate challenges effectively. Embracing this philosophy can empower you to view every experience as a valuable lesson, ultimately shaping you into a more resourceful individual.