Parcours is the art of moving through the urban environment. Jumps from roof to roof, climbing walls, somersaults over railings. It's not an extreme sport in the usual 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. Creators - 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 movie "Yamakasi" (2001) and "District B13" (2004). The name comes from the French word "parcours" - "distance, track". Now parkour is popular all over the world. 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 effective movement. "To be strong to be useful" (David Belle). Overcoming obstacles is 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 distance, from a standstill, from a sprint, with a turn. Climbing: on a wall, on 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 to fall, to group. Important: do not do tricks without preparation.

Important: do not do tricks without preparation.

Equipment and places

Footwear: sneakers with a thin sole (best grip). 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 holes in many cities.

Risks and injuries

Parkour is dangerous. Fractures, sprains, concussions. Risk: jump from height, unsuccessful landing. Especially dangerous "free running" (parkour on rooftops without safety). There have been fatal accidents. How to reduce risks: training on mats, gradual complexity, warm-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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