Meaning \u201cstrength, power\u201d when literally translated is an African martial art form known as Engolo or Ngolo. This \u201ctraditional\u201d martial art form is said to have originated around the Cunene River located in Southern Angola. Apparently, this martial art form is said to be \u201critualistic\u201d in nature. Furthermore, it is also said to be a martial art form that is extremely popular with the African diaspora especially those living in the American continent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Apparently, it was in 1960 that the presence of this form of martial art was first acknowledged via a discovery of a set of drawings. Furthermore, these drawings basically illustrated the technique used in Engolo which closely resembled the Afro-Brazilian form of combat known as \u201cCapoeira\u201d. In addition, this form of combat is said to be a part of a ritual known as \u201cOmhelo\u201d. It is in this ritual that young men compete with each other in order to find a bride to marry. It is also said that the fighting technique used by these young men in this ritual is similar to the way a group of Zebras fight amongst each other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since this form of combat uses \u201ckicks as well as punches\u201d the weapon mainly used is the \u201chands and legs\u201d of the fighter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In terms of technique, the fighter in this form of combat essentially makes use of a combination of different kicks, dodges, and leg sweeps. In addition, high emphasis is also given to the use of an inverted position (i.e. a fighter balancing on one or both hands in contact with the ground) in the Engolo. As for training centers\/schools, there are none available since this \u201ctraditional\u201d form of martial art is mainly performed by tribes living around the River Cunene in Southern Angola.<\/p>\n\n\n\n