Capoeira, for the uninitiated, is a unique Brazilian martial art. With acrobatics. And dance. And music. And quite a bit of fun. This reporter, Tad Mast, snuck into one of the classes for a day.

Classes are taught by Mestre Zumbi. We cover stretching, strength building, capoeira movements (kicks, defense, motion, acrobatics), capoeira instruments, songs, and maculele. Beginners are welcome.

Watching instructor Brian Ashbrook spin on his shoulders, jump and kick his way through several routines at the Aikibudokan Academy in Danbury, it is easy to feel mesmerized by the martial art that ...