Moving with a partner, two people interact with one another as Brazilian rhythms play in the background.

But despite what it seems, they're not dancing – they're playing Capoeira, a martial art that stems from improvisation, and teachers Laura Weaser and Donovan Boucher from Au Capoeira encourage you to try it.

Capoeiristas Laura Weaser and Donovan Boucher. Photo: Tracy Hardy.

Originating in Brazil in the 1800s, capoeira combines martial arts, acrobatics and movement to traditional Brazilian instruments and songs.

Unlike other martial arts, training is typically non-contact. 'Although that's not to say there's never any,” Laura jokes.

'It's called ‘playing' as it can be more like a game of strategy than a full-on fight. It's really beautiful to watch as movements will flow seamlessly together and it's not choreographed.”

Laura says capoeira is great for both cardio and strength, as a lot of the movements are body weight based.

'It's also a great way to boost your self-confidence in a fun environment, increase your co-ordination, and even explore a musical side you may not have known you had.”

Unfit, inflexible and uncoordinated? No worries, as Laura says everyone takes the movements and adapts them to their own style.

'Your capoeira is unique to you. There's no sense of competitiveness, it's about having a good time and breaking down your own barriers.”

'Capoeira for me is a way of life and has helped my self-confidence, fitness, self-defence and musical ability,” says Donovan.

Classes are for people aged 15-plus and are aimed primarily at beginners, with the option of exploring more complex movements as students advance. Students will also learn traditional instruments and songs.

Classes are held weekly at 162 Durham St on Mondays (6pm-7pm) and Tuesdays (6.15pm-7.15pm), with a beginner's block course starting on October 5.

Visit: www.aucapoeiranz.com for more information.