Parkour is the art of movement in the urban environment. Jumps from rooftop to rooftop, climbing walls, somersaults over railings. It is not an extreme sport in the traditional sense, but rather a philosophy: to be fast, efficient, free. We tell you about the history, principles, risks, and heroes of parkour.

History and Creators

Parkour originated in France in the 1980s. The creators are David Belle and Sébastien Foucan. They were the children of a fireman who taught them to climb. In the 1990s, parkour became known thanks to the film "Yamakasi" (2001) and "District B13" (2004). The name comes from the French word "parcours" — "distance, track." Now parkour is popular worldwide. In Russia, since the 2000s.

The sport (or not a sport?) is still not recognized as an Olympic sport, but there are world championships (Red Bull Art of Motion).

Philosophy of Parkour

To be useful. Not for the sake of effect, but for efficient movement. "To be strong to be useful" (David Belle). Overcoming obstacles as a metaphor for overcoming life's difficulties. There are no competitions (in classic parkour). It is a path of self-improvement. Respect for the environment (do not break, do not litter). Help others (if you see someone fall — help them).

Parkour is against competition. You compete only with yourself.

Basic Elements

Jumping: long jump, from a standing start, with a run, with a turn. Climbing: up a wall, over a grate, up, down. Rolls: for cushioning upon landing (reducing the load on the joints). Somersaults: forward, backward. Twists: somersaults (rarely, more in freestyle). Safety: trainers teach how to fall, to group. Important: do not perform tricks without preparation.

Important: do not perform tricks without preparation.

Equipment and Places

Footwear: sneakers with a thin sole (best traction). Clothing: loose, not restricting movement. Gloves: for hand protection (optional). Places: construction sites (illegally), special parkour parks (in Moscow — "Academy of Parkour"), urban neighborhoods. Important: comply with the laws (do not climb onto guarded objects).

In 2026, there are covered parkour halls with foam pits in many cities.

Risks and Injuries

Parkour is dangerous. Fractures, sprains, concussions. Risk: jumping from a height, a bad landing. Especially dangerous is "free running" (parkour on rooftops without safety). There have been fatal cases. How to reduce risks: training on mats, gradual complexity, warming up, do not overestimate yourself. And remember: life is more important than a like on Instagram.

It is better to start with a trainer.

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