Au Capoeira
Grassroots Community Center | 54 Coles St. | aucapoeira.com | 908-432-2405

As far as working out goes, it doesn’t get much more involved than capoeira. It’s singing. It’s dancing. It’s drumming. It’s even martial arts. Not surprisingly, practitioners of the centuries-old Afro-Brazilian art form come from all walks of life. “Everybody has a different background in our group — young, old, musicians, professionals; all types of people come together in our group, so you’re not going to be judged, you can just be yourself and relax,” says Regina Cassorla, administrator of Jersey City’s local capoeira group. “Capoeira is a lifestyle. There’s a social aspect, we’re like a family. It’s a whole new level of exercise, where it’s not just your body working, it’s also your mind.” Sounds brilliant!

The Details: Adult classes are ongoing Tuesdays and Thursdays 7–9 pm and Saturdays 1–2 and 2–3 pm (advanced). Kids classes are Thursdays 6–6:45 pm, and Saturdays 11–11:45 am at the Grassroots Community Center.

Insider Tip: Drop in for a free trial class.
The Bottom Line: $20/class or $140 for a month of unlimited classes.
Bonus: In addition to making new friends, you won’t be able to help picking up a little basic Portuguese.

Alternative to the alternative: The Grassroots Community Center also offers regular classes in “Gurlesque,” (neo-burlesque/jazz), Modern Improvisation, Middle Eastern and Bollywood dancing. Check grassrootscommunityspace.com for a complete schedule.