Hobby of the day: Parkour

Leap into Parkour: The Urban Art of Movement

May 16, 2024

Imagine transforming the city around you into your personal obstacle course. That’s parkour, where every wall, rail, and gap is a chance for a new adventure!

I’m sure you’ve heard of parkour.

Parkour is a thrilling physical discipline involving moving rapidly through an area, typically an urban environment, negotiating obstacles by running, jumping, and climbing.

Originating from France in the late 1980s, parkour was developed by David Belle and a group of friends. The core philosophy of parkour is "être et durer" (to be and to last), emphasizing efficiency, speed, and the development of physical and mental endurance.

Big Events

Events like the Rendezvous Parkour Gathering in London offer comprehensive training from global experts in a festive atmosphere, perfect for all skill levels. The FIG Parkour World Cup, another significant event, showcases top athletes competing in speed and freestyle challenges.

The sport has gained international acclaim, partly through competitive events like the USA Parkour Cup and exhibitions at major festivals.

Should I try parkour?

Parkour is more than just physical exercise; it's a way to challenge oneself mentally, overcome fears, and express creativity through movement. It’s about freedom, exploring limits, and continuous personal growth.

Of course, there is a pretty high barriers to entry: you gotta be able to run, roll, tolerate scratches and willingly risk injuries. But that’s all part of the thrill isn’t it?

Here’s how you can get started

Beginners can join introductory sessions like those offered by Parkour Generations Boston, which focus on fundamental techniques in a supportive environment. Local parkour gyms provide a safe space to learn and practice, often with options for all ages and skill levels.

Upcoming Events

- Rendezvous International Parkour Gathering 2024: A multi-day event packed with workshops and social activities in London.

- FIG Parkour World Cup May 2024: A global competition featuring the world’s top parkour athletes.

- USA Parkour Cup 2024: A national competition fostering high-level performance and community engagement.

Dive deeper into parkour here!