Axé Capoeira Chicago, Chicago

Born in the vibrant port city of Recife, Brazil, Mestre Barrão grew up surrounded by the music, dance, and capoeira traditions of his country. He began his own study of capoeira in 1974, quickly showing an affinity for both the musical instruments and focus on Personal training. At Axé Capoeira Academy, Barrão and instructor Stephen “Bambu” Kolhouse teach students to execute swift kicks, knee strikes, and other self-defense moves. Capoeira isn't only for self-defense, though: it's also an calorie-burning workout that tones muscles throughout the body.