In recent years, the Brazilian beach game of Altinha has gained significant popularity, particularly among women, thanks to initiatives like EmpoderAlta, the first all-female Altinha school founded by Lorena Bichucher. Every morning at Copacabana beach, as the sun rises, Bichucher sets up training sessions aimed at empowering women through this sport. With an emphasis on creativity and precision, participants learn to keep the ball in the air using anything but their hands. This approach not only fosters skill but also community and confidence among the players.
At around 7 AM, eight women gather for training, where they are divided into groups to practice keeping the ball aloft, employing various body parts such as shoulders, thighs, and feet. “To make it more exciting, you can increase the speed,” says Bichucher, who is a trained physical educator. This unstructured play encourages spontaneous creativity, as players pass the ball unpredictably among each other, enhancing their skills in a supportive environment.
Among the participants is Beatrice Barbosa, 33, who initially took up footvolley, another Brazilian beach sport, to lose weight. “I found footvolley, but Altinha is better. You are more present,” she shares. Barbosa trains with Bichucher twice a week, aiming to enhance her skills to compete with male players on the beach.
EmpoderAlta: A Feminist Initiative in Sports
Bichucher established EmpoderAlta four years ago after years of experiencing the challenges women face in sports environments dominated by men. “It’s better when men are not around,” she states, reflecting on a previous experience as a footvolley coach where issues arose due to male colleagues’ behavior. She envisions EmpoderAlta as a feminist project that allows women to learn without the pressure or judgment often found in mixed-gender settings.
The roots of Altinha trace back to the late 1960s on the beaches of Ipanema, where men transitioned from traditional soccer to a more playful passing game. Over time, it has evolved into a social activity that attracts both locals and tourists alike, becoming a defining feature of beach culture in Rio de Janeiro. Documentarian Cecília Lang, who became captivated by Altinha at a young age, describes it as “something attractive to watch, almost like a dance.”
Growing Popularity and Global Reach
Recent observations indicate a growing movement of women engaging in Altinha, almost resembling a revolution within the sport. Lang’s documentary, “Bola Pro Alto!” showcases this transformation and has garnered acclaim, including an award at the international FICTS film festival in Milan. She notes, “It has almost become a female revolution,” pointing to the increasing visibility and participation of women in what was once a male-dominated sport.
The sport’s reach is not limited to Brazil; Altinha is gaining traction worldwide, with sightings on beaches in Australia, Barcelona, and Tel Aviv. “It’s a fever that is spreading,” Lang adds, citing a top Italian player who learned the game through YouTube tutorials.
The Competitive Edge
Although traditionally a casual social game, Altinha is also evolving into a competitive sport. Tournaments are emerging where groups are judged on ball control, rhythm, creativity, and expression. As interest in competitive play grows, so does the desire to have Altinha recognized as an Olympic sport. Leonardo Ribeiro, Brazil’s top-ranked Altinha player with 21 gold medals, advocates for this shift, noting that achieving Olympic status requires participation in at least 75 countries and female involvement in 40 countries across three continents.
Despite the enthusiasm for competition, many players, including Ribeiro, emphasize the importance of maintaining Altinha’s essence as a social and inclusive activity. “I want to keep Altinha as a way to connect with others,” he states, underscoring the sport’s communal spirit.
Community Engagement and Future Aspirations
During the pandemic, when beaches were closed, communities adapted by moving Altinha from the sands to urban settings. In the Engenho de Dentro neighborhood, groups began meeting at ancient railway stations to play what is now called Altinha street. This adaptation has drawn hundreds of participants weekly, providing a therapeutic outlet for many. “For me, Altinha is therapeutic. I clear my mind every Monday,” remarks Ana Beatriz Farias, a regular player.
As this vibrant community continues to flourish, the future of Altinha looks promising. With increasing participation from women and a growing international presence, the sport is set to expand further, potentially leading to greater recognition and opportunities for female athletes.
As Altinha continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to observe how it develops both as a sport and a means of empowerment for women. This vibrant movement encourages not just athleticism but also community and confidence among its participants. The call to action is clear: join the Altinha movement, whether on the beach or in your local community, and experience the joy of this unique Brazilian pastime.
