The word "parkour" is a French term that refers to a training discipline involving movement through obstacles. In English, it is pronounced as pahr-koo(r), with the stress on the second syllable. The initial "p" is pronounced as [p] and the "a" is pronounced as [ɑ]. The "k" is pronounced as [k] and the "o" as [u]. Finally, the "r" at the end is pronounced as a soft, rolled [r], which is common in French. This spelling reflects the word's French origins and is commonly used in English-speaking countries.
Parkour is a physical discipline and form of training that involves moving efficiently and quickly through one's environment, using the body's natural abilities and applying practical techniques. It emerged in France in the early 1990s and has since gained global recognition. Parkour practitioners, known as traceurs or traceuses, navigate obstacles such as walls, rails, buildings, and other urban structures in a fluid and acrobatic way. The foundation of parkour lies in overcoming challenges with speed, precision, and creativity, while emphasizing safety and personal growth.
Parkour involves a range of movements including running, jumping, climbing, vaulting, and rolling. It emphasizes the development of strength, agility, balance, and spatial awareness. The philosophy of parkour encourages individuals to overcome physical, mental, and emotional barriers, promoting a holistic approach to movement and personal development.
Parkour is often practiced in both urban and natural environments, with practitioners using their surroundings to create creative and challenging courses. It is popularly associated with its portrayal in films, advertisements, and video games. However, it is essential to note that parkour goes beyond mere performance and entertainment, as it emphasizes the functional and practical aspects of movement.
Overall, parkour is a discipline that encompasses the art of movement in both urban and natural landscapes, focusing on physical prowess, mental discipline, and creative problem-solving. It exemplifies the potential of the human body and mind, promoting freedom of movement and self-expression.
The word "parkour" derives from the French term "parcours du combattant". It was initially used to describe a military obstacle course training method developed by Georges Hébert in the early 20th century. This training aimed to build physical strengths and abilities required for military personnel. During the late 20th century, David Belle and his group of practitioners, influenced by Hébert's training, developed a new discipline that emphasized efficiency and speed in traversing urban environments. They named this discipline "parkour" as a shortened form of "parcours du combattant". Eventually, parkour gained popularity worldwide, and the term stuck to describe the modern movement discipline we know today.