“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination, they produce more hues than can ever been seen. There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of
them yield more flavours than can ever be tasted.”
― Sun Tzu, The Art of War“
Today, I will Introduce you to one of Capoeira’s Trademark kicks, the AU BATIDO.
Aú batido is a traditional capoeira cartwheel kick, known under various names in breakdancing, MMA and other disciplines. This dynamic and visually striking maneuver is characterized by the graceful arc of the body, utilizing momentum and strength to execute a seamless transition from standing to upside-down and back again. The cartwheel kick originated as a combat kick, primarily used to evade attacks while simultaneously delivering a powerful blow to an opponent, showcasing the versatility and effectiveness of capoeira as both an art form and a martial discipline. Over time, it has become very popular as an acrobatic decoration, often featured in performances and demonstrations that highlight the athleticism and skill of practitioners. Beyond its practical applications, the aú batido has also gained a place in popular culture, being frequently depicted in media and competitions, making this likely the most photographed capoeira move, admired not only for its technical execution but also for the fluidity and style it conveys.
This movement is a defensive move, used when attempting to perform a cartwheel and the opponent attacks. Generally with a cabeçada, a headbutt, the aú batido takes place, attacking the opponent by surprise before the attack is executed. The aú batido is a clever and strategic technique that not only showcases the agility of the practitioner but also serves as an effective counter to incoming strikes, making it a valuable addition to any martial artist’s arsenal. This move is sometimes also used in moments of doubt, allowing the practitioner to regain control of the situation, or simply as a trick move to confuse the opponent. The versatility of the aú batido is evident as it can adapt to various combat scenarios.
Names used in different Capoeira schools may also include Beija Flor (Humming Bird, literally Flower Kiss(er)), Leque (Fan), Aú Québrado (also “broken cartwheel”), Aú Malandro (wily cartwheel), Aú Amazonas (Amazon cartwheel) or Amazonica, reflecting the diverse cultural influences and interpretations surrounding this fascinating technique. Each name carries its own unique story, adding depth to the practice and connecting practitioners with their heritage and the community. Moreover, these names often symbolize the characteristics associated with the movements, resonating with the emotions and spirit of those who perform them.
For instance, the Aú Malandro not only highlights agility but also the cleverness required to execute it gracefully, while Aú Amazonas captures the essence of strength and resilience found in the majestic Amazon rainforest. Such rich nomenclature emphasizes Capoeira’s role as a living art form, continuously evolving while remaining deeply rooted in its historical and cultural foundations, thus fostering a sense of belonging among practitioners from various backgrounds.
In addition to its defensive applications, this move is also performed in tricking, where it emphasizes style and creativity, showcasing the athlete’s ability to blend athleticism with artistic expression. Furthermore, in the world of dance, particularly for quality performances, it is frequently utilized in BREAKDANCING, where it is known as the L-kick. This dynamic movement captivates audiences not only due to its technical difficulty but also because it highlights the dancer’s unique interpretation of rhythm and flow. Its popularity in breakdancing underscores the cross-disciplinary nature of movement arts, revealing how varied techniques can be embraced and adapted across different forms of physical expression, ultimately fostering a rich tapestry of creative possibilities in both performance and personal style.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 