Parkour is a physical discipline and training method focused on efficient movement from point A to point B, utilizing various movements like jumping, climbing, and rolling. It emphasizes speed, agility, coordination, and creativity.
While modern competitive parkour features speed (Parkour Speed) and freestyle (Parkour Freestyle) categories, many practitioners focus on self-improvement, overcoming fears, and building confidence. The motto is "être et durer" (to be and to endure).
Parkour's origins trace back to David Belle, inspired by his father's obstacle course training. It initially evolved from "The Art of Movement", a practice influenced by martial arts. The split between parkour (focused on speed) and freerunning (emphasizing aesthetics) arose from differences between David Belle and Sébastien Foucan.
The article details five basic movements: vaulting, precision jumping, landing, rolling, and climbing, emphasizing the importance of practice and gradual progression.
The article profiles several professional parkour athletes, including Dimitris Kyrsanidis (freerunning), Anne-Sophie Rutz (Red Bull Art of Motion winner), and Dominic Di Tommaso (Australian athlete).