Capoeira for Youth

Strong Bodies. Confident Kids. Connected Community.

benefits for kids

Looking for a fun, dynamic activity that keeps your child moving, learning, and inspired? Capoeira is more than just a class—it’s an adventure!

Blending music, martial arts, acrobatics, and Brazilian culture, Capoeira sparks curiosity and confidence in every child. Whether your child is shy, energetic, sporty, or artistic, Capoeira has something for everyone—making it the perfect practice that nurtures both creativity and athleticism.

Through Capoeira’s unique blend of movement, music, and culture, children develop agility, rhythm, and strength while learning values that last a lifetime: respect, teamwork, and perseverance.
We offer classes year-round for ages 3.5 and up, with beginner-friendly options at every stage.

A few times each year, we also run a special Intro Series for ages 6.5–12 to make getting started even easier. Feel free to contact us to find out more!

Tiny Tots

Fun, engaging classes that help little ones build coordination, flexibility, rhythm, and focus. Songs, games, and obstacle courses keep kids moving while teaching them how to listen, follow directions, and work together.

Kids (Ages 6.5-12)

Kids gain strength, agility, and creativity as they explore Capoeira’s movement, music, and culture. They’ll practice foundational kicks and escapes, develop acrobatic skills, and grow discipline in a supportive, community-driven environment.

"Capoeira has been so great for my kids building their self-confidence and coordination. Besides the martial arts, they enjoy the acrobatic and musical elements led by their extraordinary teachers."
- Maya J.

Intermediate/Advanced

This invitation only class is a accelerated track for young capoeiristas with one year + experience. These classes deepen Capoeira skills, build leadership, and prepare kids for the transition into teen/adult training.

Teens

New teens typically train in our Teen/Adult classes, where they develop their movement and music alongside older students. This supportive environment encourages teens to step up, take ownership, and grow into confident young leaders.

Acrobatic Conditioning 8+

This fun, high-energy class helps kids build strength, agility, and body control through jumps, rolls, balances, and dynamic movement challenges. No experience needed—each session is scaled to meet your child where they’re at. This class is an additional charge and not included in monthly Capoeira tuition.

Get To Know Your Mestres

Mestra Pavão

Jessica Carla de Lima-Moran “Mestra Pavão” is the co-founder of CounterBalance with over 30 years of experience in Capoeira and movement-based fitness. A proud member of Capoeira Brasil, she combines Afro-Brazilian tradition, functional strength training, and community-centered wellness in her work. Certified in Tacfit and Steel Mace and a black belt in Capoeira, she creates dynamic, inclusive programming that reflects her belief in movement as both discipline and expression. Pavão has dedicated decades to working with youth, helping new generations discover confidence, resilience, and cultural pride through movement. Her lifelong commitment to professional development keeps her training, learning, and refining her practice—ensuring her teaching stays fresh, relevant, and deeply connected to tradition. She holds a degree from UC Berkeley.

Mestre Chegado

Sean Anthony Moran “Mestre Chegado” is the co-founder of CounterBalance and a black belt with decades of experience in Capoeira, fitness, and the performing arts. A certified personal trainer with additional certifications in Tacfit and Steel Mace, he brings a unique blend of athleticism, creativity, and discipline to his teaching. Classically trained as an actor, Chegado combines performance, physicality, and storytelling to create engaging and empowering learning experiences. With a strong commitment to youth mentorship and community building, he uses Capoeira and movement as tools to inspire confidence, discipline, and cultural connection in the next generation. As both an artist and educator, Chegado is dedicated to helping individuals of all backgrounds discover their potential through movement and community.