How do I Learn Parkour?

Parkour is a sport that utilizes acrobatic stunts to hurdle obstacles and move across urban terrain. This extreme sport can improve a person’s fitness as well as increase his or her confidence and discipline. This is why many want to join the movement and learn parkour. Those who want to learn parkour should have a mentor, start small, and train both physically and mentally.

Having a mentor is good way to learn parkour. While there are coaches that offer paid parkour classes to new students, one can almost always find a mentors willing to train people for free. A competent mentor generally guides students through the maneuvers, instructs them on proper stretching, and safety procedures, and gives them space for self expression at the same time. Joining a training group with experienced members is usually a good way to receive free parkour lessons as well.

When learning parkour, it is always better to start small. While the leaps, vaults, and somersaults are undoubtedly impressive, only those with appropriate training can execute them without serious risk. Make sure to cover the fundamentals first before attempting complicated tricks. Only after mastering the basics should one gradually increase the level of stunt difficulty he or she performs. Avoid being overconfident, as injuries can increase training time.

Parkour artists are known for their physical fitness. This is so because the majority of parkour moves require speed, endurance, strength, and flexibility. As such, strength and endurance training significantly benefit those who plan on training in parkour.

Sometimes, the most difficult barrier to break is the one set by the mind. This is especially true in a sport where leaping from several stories towards a hard pavement is commonplace. Before deciding to learn parkour, make sure that you are mentally prepared for the intimidating challenges and the injuries ahead. Maintain discipline throughout the training, as a single instance of inattention can result in injury.

Unlike conventional sports, training for parkour does not require any specific equipment. Aside from a comfortable pair of shoes, a person only needs the body and the surroundings to learn parkour. Clothes can be loose or tight fitting depending on the student’s preference. Nevertheless, students may wear extra protection like elbow pads, knee pads, or a helmet to prevent injury.

There are some establishments that prohibit people from doing parkour on their premises. The authorities also tend to frown on people who engage in dangerous stunts on public property. Check with those in charge of public places like parks before deciding to practice there. Keep this in mind when looking for a place to train to prevent unnecessary encounters with the authorities.