Every Friday morning, PROFESSOR BLACK TRUTH hosts “The Friday Crime Report,” focusing on systemic racism, economic inequality, and police brutality in the black community. The program promotes advocacy, fostering dialogue, policy change, and community engagement to support marginalized voices and encourage social justice. Each episode includes community members and experts to inspire actionable steps towards a fairer society.
In Today’s installment…
Yet another suburban psycho has gone on a rampage, wreaking havoc in a quiet community that once prided itself on safety and tranquility. In the aftermath of this horrifying event, and on cue, the police began covering for him before the bodies were cold, stating that he suffers from mental illness, as if this revelation could somehow justify the heinous actions. The authorities, perhaps looking to deflect blame or sympathize with a troubled mind, quickly painted a picture that seemed to protect the perpetrator rather than empathize with the victims, leaving the community grappling with a sense of betrayal and raw grief.
Shout out to the professor for creating and posting this insightful video.
The Professor’s engaging videos on black empowerment tackle historical and contemporary issues, promoting critical thinking among viewers. His YouTube channel HERE fosters a community focused on significant black topics and encourages dialogue.
“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more 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’m going to introduce you to the MACACO.
The Macaco in Capoeira is an acrobatic movement, often described as a “monkey flip,” involving a handstand and rotation, transitioning from a low crouch to a handstand and back down. In Capoeira, it’s not just a single move but a dynamic transition, often used to evade, attack, or flow into other movements, adding rhythm and creativity to the practice. Capoeira Angola and Capoeira Regional both utilize the Macaco, but the overall style and context of its use can differ significantly, showcasing the artistry and adaptability inherent in this Brazilian martial art. The macaco serves as a building block for more complex movements like the back handspring and can also be used as a launchpad for various attacks and kicks within the Capoeira game, including powerful aerial kicks that demonstrate both skill and agility. It involves an inverted motion where the capoeirista (Capoeira practitioner) places one hand on the ground behind them and swings their legs over, jumping in an arched trajectory that reflects both grace and strength. The macaco bears a strong resemblance to a back handspring but differentiates itself by typically starting from a low crouch and planting one hand behind the player, emphasizing the importance of starting low to gain momentum.
Learning the macaco, particularly the full backward version that showcases advanced skill, takes dedication and consistent practice over weeks and even months, requiring not just physical training but also mental resilience to overcome the challenges intrinsic to mastering this impressive maneuver.
In essence, the macaco is a dynamic and essential element of Capoeira, combining strength, flexibility, and coordination into a fluid and powerful acrobatic move that showcases the unique blend of martial arts and dance inherent to this Afro-Brazilian cultural expression. This acrobatic feat not only demonstrates remarkable physical prowess but also highlights the practitioner’s rhythm and timing, as they gracefully maneuver through the air, executing the move with precision and style. As a crucial component of Capoeira’s repertoire, mastering the macaco allows practitioners to enhance their overall agility and create impressive sequences that captivate audiences, transforming a simple fight into an intricate performance art.
“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more 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’m gonna type to you about a fundamental skill in Capoeira, the BANANEIRA.
The Bananeira (pronounced “bah-na-nera”) is the term used for a handstand. It is a fundamental movement in Capoeira, serving as a building block for various acrobatic maneuvers and plays a unique role in the Capoeira roda (the circle in which Capoeira is played).
The bananeira is considered the absolute fundamental movement for all acrobatics within Capoeira, developing upper body strength and balance essential for more advanced techniques. Unlike a gymnast’s handstand, which emphasizes static control and symmetry, the bananeira in Capoeira is dynamic, mobile, and can involve shifting postures or flailing legs to prevent opponents from finding vulnerabilities. It is a versatile move that not only demonstrates physical prowess but also embodies the spirit of improvisation that defines Capoeira. The bananeira can be used strategically in the Capoeira game (jogo): it can challenge the other player to see who can hold their handstand longer and allows a Capoeirista to take a brief break and observe their opponent. During this observation, the practitioner assesses their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, providing an opportunity to devise new tactics for the unfolding game. The bananeira can be employed to escape or initiate an attack, with the feet being used for both defense and offensive movements while inverted. This dual function adds a layer of complexity to the move, as timing and precision become crucial in ensuring successful execution. In contemporary regional Capoeira styles, the bananeira is sometimes used to showcase balance and strength as a floreio or demonstration of skill, often eliciting admiration from spectators for its aesthetic appeal.
A key distinction from other hand balancing arts is that in Capoeira, the practitioner maintains eye contact with their opponent rather than looking at the ground. This requires tucking the chin towards the chest and moving the head to track the other player during the game, emphasizing the interactive nature of Capoeira as a conversation between warriors. Achieving a stable bananeira involves “stacking” the joints, meaning keeping the shoulders over the wrists, hips over the shoulders, and ankles over the hips, all of which contributes to maintaining proper alignment and balance. Engaging the core muscles is vital to maintain a flat, board-like posture, creating a foundation of strength necessary for executing subsequent moves. Pointing the toes skyward can assist in straightening the legs, enhancing both form and function. Furthermore, the bananeira’s potential origins have been linked to the use of handstands by Nganga (Bantu healers and spiritual leaders) in their practice, symbolizing a spiritual connection to ancestors who walk on their hands in the spirit world. The linkage to spiritual practices further enriches the cultural context of the bananeira, illustrating how this move transcends mere physicality to become a bridge between the earthly and the ethereal, fortifying the sense of identity and history within the Capoeira community.
Learning the bananeira can be intimidating due to the fear of falling, which is a common barrier for many practitioners. Overcoming this fear is crucial for safe practice, as confidence plays a significant role in mastering the move.
Practicing against a wall or with a partner can help develop comfort in the inverted position; these methods provide a safety net that allows for gradual progression.
It’s important to start slowly, focusing on body awareness and control, as this foundational approach not only enhances safety but also promotes a deeper connection with your body. Begin by placing your hands shoulder-width apart, ensuring your fingers are loosely spread, with weight concentrated through the top of the palms to maintain stability while inverted. This initial setup is crucial, as it creates a solid base from which to work. As you kick your legs up one at a time, aim for your hips to be stacked directly above your shoulders and your feet to rise above your hips, which will make balancing easier and more effective. As you gain confidence, be sure to practice holding the position for longer periods, using your breath to find calmness and steadiness. Experiment with variations in leg positions and arm placements, as these can enhance your skills and deepen your understanding of this challenging pose, opening opportunities for greater strength, flexibility, and mindfulness in your practice.
“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“
The Corta Capim, or “Grass Cutter,” is a versatile Capoeira movement used for offense, defense, and as a transitional floreio technique that showcases the blend of martial prowess and artistic expression inherent in Capoeira. Practiced from a low crouch with proper posture, it involves sweeping one leg in a wide circle for a seamless 360-degree rotation while maintaining stability, which requires both physical strength and mental focus. Fluidity and controlled movements are essential for effective execution, and coordinating breathing helps enhance performance and relaxation, allowing practitioners to connect more deeply with their movements and the rhythm of the music.
This connection not only improves technique but also cultivates a sense of harmony with the surrounding environment, creating a deeper mind-body connection in Capoeira practice.
The Corta Capim movement holds historical significance, as it was a pivotal point in the life of MESTRE JOAO GRANDE, who is renowned for his contributions to the art form.
He encountered the movement as a child while observing Capoeira practitioners and initially believed it was a dance of the NAGOS, later realizing it was a crucial component of Capoeira. His fascination with Corta Capim inspired his journey into the art form, igniting a passion and commitment that led to countless hours of training and dedication, ultimately establishing him as a leading figure in Capoeira. Today, the movement not only embodies the spirit of resilience and creativity but also serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Afro-Brazilian community, showcasing the transformative power of Capoeira as a form of both self-defense and artistic expression.
There are various ways to perform Corta Capim, allowing for adaptation to individual styles and skill levels.
Some common progressions include practicing with your weaker leg to build balance and strength, which can significantly enhance your overall performance and contribute to a more well-rounded skill set. This focused practice not only aids in physical development but also helps cultivate mental resilience as you push through challenges. Performing the movement in the opposite direction can also help you develop ambidexterity and a deeper understanding of the techniques involved, broadening your capabilities and preparing you for diverse scenarios in your training.
Additionally, executing the sweep with only one hand for support can challenge your core stability and refine your precision, pushing you to engage your muscles in new ways while also honing your focus. Understanding and mastering Corta Capim not only enhances your physical capabilities but also deepens your appreciation for the rich history and cultural significance of Capoeira, as it connects practitioners to centuries of tradition and the vibrant community that surrounds this martial art.
The beauty of Capoeira lies not only in its technical motions but also in the stories and philosophies intertwined within its practice. By immersing yourself in these practices, you not only improve your skills but also foster a greater respect for the cultural roots and the art form’s evolution over time, learning from the generations that came before you and contributing to the ongoing narrative of this dynamic expression of culture and identity. This holistic approach encourages a sense of belonging and commitment to the endless journey of learning that Capoeira represents.
Welcome to NAMED AND SHAMED, a vital platform addressing abuse in martial arts by revealing stories of practitioners misusing their authority in profound and alarming ways. We share personal accounts and expert interviews to highlight the urgent need for awareness, safe spaces, and supportive environments for those affected by these troubling experiences. Our mission is to expose injustices that often go unnoticed, while also aiming to empower victims by providing them with a voice and community. Inspired by the impactful work of the YouTube channel McDojo Life, we strive to promote transparency and accountability within the martial arts community, encouraging open discussions and fostering a culture that prioritizes safety and respect for all practitioners. Through our efforts, we hope to create an environment where individuals can train without fear and trust their instructors completely, facilitating personal growth and well-being in their martial arts journey.
Today, we check out a martial artist, Martin Amba, who has been accused of some pretty horrific things, including serious allegations of misconduct and unethical behavior, which have sparked a significant backlash within the martial arts community and beyond.
The ripple effect created by these accusations has led to intense discussions among fans, practitioners, and industry professionals, raising important questions about accountability and integrity in the sport. As more details come to light, many are left grappling with the implications of these claims, reflecting on how such controversies can impact not only the individuals involved but also the broader perception of martial arts as a whole. The diverse opinions being shared highlight the complexity of the situation, urging a reevaluation of how standards and ethics are upheld within the community. Furthermore, this discourse has sparked a deeper examination of the mechanisms in place that govern conduct and whistleblowing, shedding light on the potential need for reform to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all participants. As the conversations unfold, they not only serve to illuminate the darker corners of the sport but also advocate for a culture of transparency and respect, which is vital for the future of martial arts.
GOOD NEWS!!!
Well, something good has come from this. Martin Amba, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for sexual assault.
The martial arts community should focus on empowerment and confidence, addressing negative behaviors to foster trust and respect. Education on misbehavior and support among members enhance personal growth and shared values. Open discussions and mentorship promote unity, making members feel valued and fostering collaboration. This sense of belonging creates a resilient community where individuals share experiences and inspire each other towards excellence, while strong relationships and communication build collective strength to face challenges and celebrate successes.
This morning while getting ready for work, I came across this ingenious video, “The Boondocks Saw It Coming — We Just Didn’t Listen”. This video focuses on the episode, “The Trial of Robert Kelly”.
This episode serves as a cautionary tale, reflecting on Black America’s idolization of celebrities over truth and the implications of such reverence. This thought-provoking documentary not only showcases the complexities of our entertainment industry but also highlights how this adoration often blinds us to the flaws and wrongdoings of our idols. It compares its themes to the seismic shifts observed in the actual trials of R. Kelly and Sean “Diddy” Combs, thoroughly examining the complex issues of celebrity worship that permeate society, the sense of racial loyalty that complicates discussions around accountability, and the systemic failures within the justice system that often allow powerful figures to evade consequences.
Through powerful storytelling and incisive analysis, the documentary urges viewers to critically assess the cultural narratives surrounding these figures, probing deeper into how societal dynamics and historical precedents shape our responses to allegations of misconduct. The implications extend beyond individual cases, inviting a broader discourse on justice, moral responsibility, and the collective value we place on truth versus fame.
It poignantly touches on the cases of Tory Lanez and Jonathan Majors, highlighting a troubling trend of protecting influential men, often at the devastating cost of Black women, whose voices remain marginalized in these conversations. The film ultimately challenges viewers to grapple with the implications of supporting cultural icons while simultaneously seeking justice for the wronged, questioning whether it is truly possible to love the art while acknowledging the harm done by the artists behind it. Through this exploration, the documentary prompts a deeper reflection on our values and the narratives we choose to uphold.
Shoutout to the YouTube channel SPARKUP for creating and posting this incredible video, which showcases their unique approach to engaging and educational content. If you appreciate high-quality videos that inspire and inform, please click HERE to watch more amazing videos from this channel, where you can find a diverse range of topics that are sure to captivate your interest and expand your knowledge. Make sure to subscribe to stay updated with their latest releases and join a growing community of viewers who share a passion for learning and discovery!
“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.
I woke up, and this video popped up on my feed, and I knew I had to share this with you.
Rather than posting up some limited commentary, I’ve decided to just post the original YouTube description:
From a grainy 1954 filmstrip to the sharp wit of animated satire, from verses spoken in dim-lit poetry lounges to the piercing honesty of hip hop and candid interviews — this is the story of an unbroken thread.
Selling to the Negro. The Boondocks. Kanye West on Def Poetry Jam. Jay-Z’s The Story of O.J. Tupac Shakur speaking truth in 1992 about greed, power, and the American dream.
Across seventy years, these moments echo each other — each one revealing how race, wealth, identity, and image are braided into the fabric of America’s imagination. We see how ads once courted Black consumers with a smile, how satire stripped fame to its bones, how music and poetry wrestled with the cost of success, and how artists have fought — and sometimes surrendered — to the very systems they question.
This isn’t just history. It’s the same story retold in different tongues, from the polished pitch of Madison Avenue to the raw beats of the block.
The past and present stand face to face here, leaving us with one lingering question: has anything truly changed?
You know what’s really scary? Some of the things that was taught in that old film about negro spending habits are some of the same things my mother would teach me about buying things.
“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 am showing you a basic kick that’s NOT NECESSARILY from Capoeira Angola, but is utilized by many Angoleiros.
The “Martelo” (Portuguese for “hammer”) is a dynamic and powerful roundhouse kick in Capoeira, often delivered with the instep or the lower part of the shin.
This striking technique is not only characterized by its speed and agility, but also by the fluidity and rhythm that are fundamental to Capoeira as a whole. Practitioners often utilize the Martelo to surprise their opponents, executing the kick with precision while maintaining an impressive level of balance and control. In addition to its offensive capabilities, the Martelo can also serve as a defensive maneuver, allowing the practitioner to deflect incoming attacks while simultaneously countering with their own strike. Moreover, mastering this kick requires extensive practice and strength training, as it engages multiple muscle groups and demands coordination and timing, ensuring that it remains an essential component of Capoeira training routines and sparring sessions.
The most common forms of the Martelo include:
Martelo em pé
This is the most common martelo seen in Regional and Contemporânea rodas. Its execution on the very basic level is identical to the sport version of the roundhouse kick commonly seen in Tae Kwon Do and kickboxing. Capoeira emphasizes using kicks anywhere at any time, which allows for a dynamic approach to combat. As practitioners advance, more intricate forms of the martelo em pé can emerge, often springing from feints to mislead opponents, skipping to create distance while launching the kick with the front leg, and employing evasive maneuvers like the esquiva diagonal to avoid strikes. This creative use of movement not only showcases the beauty of Capoeira but also emphasizes the strategic aspect of the art. Players must maintain their balance and awareness, continually calculating the best moments to strike while staying agile. Emphasis is placed on speed and deception rather than merely delivering a knockout blow. However, even with this precaution, knockouts still occur due to the weight and sheer force of the leg, reminding practitioners of the power behind each technique and the importance of control in practice. Such experiences contribute to a deeper understanding of the art’s physicality and underlying principles, fostering a respect for both the discipline and the unpredictability of a roda environment.
Martelo do chão
Martelo do chão or martelo de negativa is a martelo that starts from the negativa position, showcasing the elegant flow and complexity of capoeira techniques. The Martelo do chão is delivered from a lower position, usually right before a rolê, allowing for a seamless transition between movements while in esquiva baixa or downward going into a queda de rins. This kick, characterized by its deceptive angles and powerful execution, has a confusing amount of names, depending on the group, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of capoeira where different regions and schools impart their unique terminologies and styles. The variation in names not only adds to the intricacy of the art form but also illustrates the diverse approaches practitioners may take, often blending traditional methods with innovative interpretations during their practice.
Martelo rodado
A spinning martelo, similar to a 540 kick, is a dynamic and powerful movement often seen in martial arts and acrobatics. The martelo rodado combines the techniques of the 540 or parafuso with the classic martelo. While the parafuso is characterized by a spinning motion from the outside to the inside, producing a crescent kick that adds elegance to the maneuver, the martelo rodado focuses primarily on delivering force. Unlike its counterpart, the martelo rodado strikes with the instep of the foot, allowing for a more impactful contact with the target. In this execution, control is sacrificed for sheer power, as the leg does not stop abruptly but continues through the motion, following with an impressive full rotation of the hips. This fluidity in movement not only enhances the strength of the kick but also showcases the practitioner’s athleticism and skill, making the spinning martelo a visually captivating and effective technique in various combat sports.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 