Among the numerous styles of Capoeira, their are three key disciplines:
Capoeira Angola,
Capoeira Regional, and
Abada-Capoeira.
Angola Capoeira came first, and the acrobatic movements are very fluid and intricate. Originally used by Brazilian slaves as an emotional and physical outlet, Angola is a very beautiful martial art. The history, culture, and music of Brazil is a very important part of the teachings.
Capoeira Regional was created by Mestre Bimba and grew out of Capoeira Angola. What Angola has in style, Regional makes up in strength. Regional is a combination of several martial arts and Angola to make a very powerful form. The focus is in strength, control, and power. The more cultural aspects are faded in this style.
The largest Capoeira organization in the world, Abada-Capoeira is a mix of Regional and Angola. Abada brings the grace of Angola and the power of Regional together. Students are expected to train in the music, song, and cultural aspects of Capoeira, along with the rigor physical training required to become proficient in Abada. Abada can be considered the middle ground, taking the best piece of both and making a effective fighting and artistic style.