Parkour is the art of moving through urban environments. Jumps from rooftop to rooftop, climbing walls, somersaults over railings. It's 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 were David Belle and Sébastien Foucan. They were the children of a fireman who taught them to climb. In the 1990s, parkour became known through 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, it started in the 2000s.

The sport (or not a sport?) is not yet 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's 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: for distance, 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 joints). Somersaults: forward, backward. Twists: somersaults (rarely, more in freestyle). Safety: trainers teach how to fall, to tuck in.

Important: do not perform tricks without preparation.

Equipment and Locations

Footwear: sneakers with a thin sole (best traction). Clothing: loose, not restricting movement. Gloves: for hand protection (optional). Locations: 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 height, a bad landing. Especially dangerous is "free running" (parkour on rooftops without safety). There have been fatal accidents. How to reduce risks: training on mats, gradual complexity, warming up, not overestimating yourself. And remember: life is more valuable than a like on Instagram.

It's better to start with a trainer.

Permanent link to this publication: