Aú

Sunil - Capoeira (2934583107)

Aú (pronounced as ah-oo), also known as the cartwheel or in some contexts as the monkey flip, is a fundamental movement in Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. The aú is not only a showcase of agility and strength but also an integral part of the fluid, dance-like combat system that characterizes Capoeira. This movement is similar to a gymnastic cartwheel, but with distinct stylistic and functional differences that are rooted in the martial art's African origins and its development in Brazil among enslaved Africans.

Description

The aú in Capoeira involves an acrobatic flip that resembles a cartwheel but is executed with a significant emphasis on maintaining eye contact with the opponent. This is a defensive maneuver that allows a practitioner, known as a capoeirista, to evade attacks, reposition themselves strategically within the Roda (the circle where Capoeira is practiced), and potentially counterattack. Unlike the traditional gymnastic cartwheel, where the performer's gaze is directed away from the landing, in Capoeira, the capoeirista aims to keep their eyes on their opponent throughout the movement, showcasing the martial art's emphasis on awareness and readiness to engage.

Technique

The technique for performing an aú starts with the capoeirista positioning themselves in a low stance, with knees slightly bent and hands ready to be placed on the ground. The movement is initiated by stepping to the side, placing one hand on the ground followed by the other, while the legs kick over the body in a wide arc. The capoeirista's head turns to maintain visual contact with the opponent, and the movement is completed by landing on the feet, ready to continue the flow of the game. Flexibility, coordination, and spatial awareness are crucial for executing an aú effectively.

Cultural Significance

The aú holds deep cultural significance within Capoeira, reflecting the art's roots in resistance and freedom. It symbolizes agility, cunning, and the ability to overcome obstacles, both literal and metaphorical. The movement's emphasis on eye contact and continuous flow mirrors the capoeiristas' need to be constantly aware of their surroundings and opponents, echoing the historical context in which enslaved Africans had to be vigilant and ready to escape or defend themselves at a moment's notice.

Training

Training for the aú involves not only physical conditioning to improve strength, flexibility, and coordination but also practice within the Roda to understand its strategic applications. Capoeiristas learn to integrate the aú into their game, using it to dodge attacks, create openings for counterattacks, or simply to add an element of surprise. The aú is often one of the first acrobatic movements taught to beginners, serving as a foundation for more complex and dynamic movements in Capoeira.

Variations

There are several variations of the aú, each adapted for different strategic purposes within the game of Capoeira. These include:

• Aú sem mão (handless aú) - an advanced version where the capoeirista performs the cartwheel without using their hands, requiring significant strength and control.
• Aú batido - involves striking a target with one foot while performing the cartwheel, combining defense with attack.
• Aú fechado (closed aú) - a more compact version designed to evade closer attacks.
• Aú aberto (open aú) - a wider, more expressive version that can be used to create distance or showcase agility.

Conclusion

The aú is a testament to the complexity and beauty of Capoeira, blending art, combat, and culture in a single movement. It exemplifies the capoeirista's skill, agility, and strategic acumen, making it a cornerstone of the martial art's practice and philosophy.