Danmyé
Martial art from Martinique / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Danmyé or Ladja (also known as Ladjia, Kokoyé, Wonpwen) is a martial art from Martinique that is similar to Brazilian capoeira[1][2] and to other arts in various Caribbean islands (Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica).[3]
Also known as | Ladja, Ladjia, Kokoyé, Wonpwen |
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Focus | kicks, evasions, takedowns, punches, grappling, acrobatic |
Country of origin | Martinique |
Ancestor arts | Engolo Senegalese wrestling |
Related arts | Capoeira Knocking and kicking |
Ladjia is based on the prominent use of kicks and head butts, as well as hand blows.[1] While punches became more common in the late 20th century, earlier periods featured kicks, sweeps and acrobatic defenses.[4]
Danmyé represents martial practice where two players engage in combat within a circle (won) formed by supporters (atlaj) and spectators, regulated by an orchestra (mizik-la).[5] The orchestra typically consists of a drum (tambou), played by two people, accompanied by chants, sometimes improvised, and rhythmic hand claps. This music is directly connected to the Kalennda-Bèlè dances.
One of the characteristics of Danmyé is the use of cunning to deceive the opponent.