What is Parkour? A Beginner's Guide
When I think about the path that led me to parkour, I can’t help but reflect on my early years. Growing up in Phoenix,
Arizona, as the youngest of seven siblings, I was always on the move. With one brother and five sisters, life was full of energy, challenges, and a constant desire to keep up with my older siblings. Sports were a natural part of that life. From a young age, I was involved in every team sport imaginable: basketball, football, soccer—you name it, I played it. For years, I thought that being part of a team was my calling.
That all changed the day I picked up a controller and played Assassin’s Creed for the first time. Something clicked. Watching the character seamlessly scale walls, leap across rooftops, and move through the environment with such freedom sparked something deep within me. I’d never seen movement expressed that way—fluid, creative, and powerful. It wasn’t just about winning a game or scoring points; it was about mastery over one’s body and environment. That moment, I knew: parkour was for me.
I quit all my sports teams and made a decision that shocked everyone around me. Friends, coaches, and even family questioned my choice. But I didn’t waver. I wasn’t looking for approval. I was chasing a feeling—the sense of limitless potential that parkour represented. It wasn’t just about jumping or climbing; it was about breaking boundaries, both physically and mentally. That decision set the course for my life.
What is Parkour?
Parkour, at its core, is the art of movement. It’s about using your body to navigate through your environment as efficiently as possible, overcoming obstacles using techniques like running, jumping, climbing, and vaulting. Originating in France in the late 1980s, parkour was developed by a group of practitioners known as the Yamakasi. They viewed it as a discipline, a way to train the mind and body to overcome challenges, both literal and metaphorical.
Parkour isn’t about competition or comparison. It’s a deeply personal practice that encourages self-improvement and creativity. Each practitioner, or traceur, approaches parkour differently, adapting movements to their unique style, abilities, and environment. It’s not about how high you can jump or how fast you can run. It’s about progressing at your own pace and learning to trust your body and mind.
The Benefits of Parkour
One of the things I quickly realized when I started parkour was how much it challenged me, not just physically but mentally. The benefits are incredible:
1. Physical Fitness
Parkour trains your entire body. It builds strength, agility, balance, and endurance. You’re constantly engaging different muscle groups, improving your coordination and flexibility. Unlike traditional workouts, parkour is dynamic and fun. It doesn’t feel like exercise because you’re too busy enjoying the movement.
2. Mental Resilience
Parkour teaches you to face fear and uncertainty. Every obstacle is a problem to solve, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow. When you’re standing in front of a gap, questioning whether you can make the jump, you learn to push past self-doubt and trust in your preparation. This mindset extends beyond training and into everyday life.
3. Creativity and Adaptability
No two training sessions are the same. Each environment presents new obstacles, and parkour encourages you to think outside the box. You learn to see the world differently, viewing walls, railings, and staircases not as barriers but as opportunities for movement.
4. Community and Camaraderie
Parkour has a global community that embraces inclusivity and support. When I founded Citi Limits Parkour in 2009, it was with the vision of creating a space where people of all backgrounds could come together and grow. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll find encouragement and inspiration within the parkour community.
Getting Started in Parkour
If you’re new to parkour, here’s what you need to know:
1. Start Small
Don’t feel like you need to leap across rooftops on day one. Begin with basic movements like:
Rolling: Learning how to land safely and absorb impact is crucial.
Vaulting: Practice simple vaults over low obstacles.
Precision Jumps: Focus on jumping and landing with control.
2. Find a Mentor or Community
One of the best ways to learn is by training with others. Look for local parkour groups, classes, or workshops. A good coach can teach you proper technique and help you progress safely.
3. Embrace Failure
Parkour is about trial and error. You will stumble, fall, and make mistakes. That’s part of the journey. Every failure is a step closer to success.
4. Prioritize Safety
Always warm up before training, and listen to your body. Start with small challenges and gradually increase the difficulty. If something feels unsafe, don’t do it.
5. Stay Consistent
Like any skill, parkour requires regular practice. Set aside time each week to train, and focus on incremental progress.
The Philosophy Behind Parkour
What sets parkour apart from other disciplines is its philosophy. For me, parkour is more than movement—it’s a way of life. It teaches you to approach obstacles with determination and creativity. It reminds you that limits are self-imposed and can be overcome with effort and persistence. This mindset has shaped every aspect of my life, from my career to my relationships.
When I founded Citi Limits Parkour as a business in 2019, it was with the dream of sharing this philosophy with the world. My goal is to raise hundreds of thousands of athletes, not just to excel in parkour but to embrace the mindset of overcoming challenges and pushing beyond limits. Parkour is about freedom, growth, and resilience. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself.
Your Journey Begins
If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken the first step. Parkour is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, challenge your mind, or simply try something new, parkour has something to offer.
Remember, every expert was once a beginner. I started my journey with a dream inspired by a video game and a burning desire to push my limits. Now, 15 years later, parkour has become my life’s work and passion. I’m excited to see where your journey will take you.
So, what are you waiting for? The world is your playground. It’s time to move.