Parkour is a type of movement philosophy first developer in France during the twentieth century. Depending on who you ask, the exact definition will vary as it integrates a number of different disciplines; some may call it a philosophy, a hobby or a sport. Basically, it is about learning how to rethink the use of your body and navigate obstacles in public spaces. Some parkour practitioners believe that what they learn while practicing the sport can also carry over into their every day lives, allowing them to feel more confident and courageous when tackling the obstacles of life, such as disagreements at work or emotional challenges.
A French naval officer from the First and Second World Wars, Georges Herbert developed the earliest form of parkour. As he served France, he also traveled, inspired by the way folks of African tribes would move gymnastically. Upon his return, he would begin to develop a method of natural movement that the members of the military could use and become encourages to effectively and efficiently move around obstacles. This méthode naturelle would then be regularly taught, laying the groundwork for the introduction of parkour.
David Belle is one of the founding figures of the sport, taught by his father back in the 80s, and he is the one who coined “parkour” as a term. The name comes from the name of the French military course that was used to train its members, parcours du combattant. Another term that people use to describe the movement is l’art du déplacement, which means “the art of displacement.” Others just refer to it as “PK.” A male who practices parkour is a traceur, and a female who engages in the sport is a traceuse.
The art of parkour is efficiently moving from one point to another point, and it is theoretically about learning to navigate obstacles in an emergency. Training allows a person to assess the upcoming obstacles as they appear individually and to figure out what is the most efficient way to get past them based on the object, the situation and the physical state of the individual. Sometimes training can include engaging in martial arts training as there is an emphasis in limber movement.
The 1990s saw the popularization of parkour as there were a few films based around the idea, which has lead to traceurs expressing their disdain for the mainstream attention, primarily due to the risk of danger if a person who has not properly trained elects to practice it. This is due to the fact that jumps, flying leaps and other similar moves are generally involved, and as showy as they may be, they are quite hazardous.
If you wish to see parkour occur in person, you may visit some groups in major cities where periodic demonstrations occur. They will also offer those who are interested in engaging in the sport some training to help ready their bodies for the task. Parkour is an enjoyable and innovative way to alter the relationship with your spatial awareness and body, and a great way to get active; after all, why stick to the streets when you can navigate the obstacles of public spaces?
Learning Parkour
It is always best to start small when learning parkour. As previously stated, while the vaults, leaps and somersaults are indeed impressive to watch, there is serious risk in attempting to execute them without the appropriate training. Only after you master the most basic movements should you then attempt to learn the more complicated tricks, gradually increasing the difficulty as you move on. Do not be overconfident; injuries will only increase the time you spend training.
Because parkour moves are usually based in flexibility, strength, endurance and speed, parkour artists should be physically fit. Those who intend to train in the movement would significantly benefit from training in strength and endurance.
Sometimes, people find that the mental barrier is the hardest one to break out of. After all, this is hardly strange considering this is a sport where you might have to leap several stories onto a hard pavement. Before you attempt training in parkour, ensure that your mind is fully prepared for the potential injuries and the difficult challenges ahead. It is of utmost important to maintain discipline throughout the entire exercise since just a moment of inattention can mean injury.
There is no specific equipment required for parkour training, though it is a good idea to have a good pair of shoes. Outside of this, you only need your body and a good set of surroundings. Your preference will dictate whether you wear loose or tight clothing, though you may wish to consider wearing a helmet or joint pads to prevent serious injury.