Parkour Exercises

Getting from Point A to Point B ASAP

Athletes involved in Parkour have the incredible propensity to get from point A to point B in as straight of a line as possible, taking into account the obstacles that need to be hurdled in between.  First, an athlete must be able to address what the plan is to get from point A to point B.  Once a plan is made, several attempts are usually to be had until it is achieved.  Athletes must run, jump, climb, crawl, or use any creative means necessary to get to another point.  These tactics can be dangerous, which is why the athlete would attempt a stunt starting with short distances and low heights, progressing as he/she feels more comfortable.  Regardless, we're not here to talk about stunts, but rather, the exercises that help feed the stunts.

What's most important about this type of training is that is emphasizes balance and coordination.  All the strength and endurance in the world would mean nothing if one weren't able to functionally apply it.  Exercises like these that focus on the stablizing and coordinating muscles, are worth way more than your traditional bench press or squat.  The best part of these exercises is the only equipment needed is a railing.  Technically, if you're clever enough, nearly any environment can suffice.

Parkour groups are common within the Eastern Hemisphere, especially in Europe.  The US has slowly been gaining grounds in recent years.  In San Diego, there are weekend meetups at Balboa Park for beginner - advanced Parkour athletes.   Visit San Diego Parkour, if you'd like to check it out.  It's amazing just to watch, even if you have little interest in being able to perform these stunts and/or exercises.

Below are two videos.  The first demonstrates what Parkour is all about.  The second shows a variety of exercises from beginner to advanced, so feel free to try some of these out and incorporate them into your exercise program.  The superior level of fitness that these athletes display are solely due to their training.  The reason for most people not being able to do these stunts is because most people don't train like they do.
   

References:

American Parkour

Demon Drills's YouTube Channel

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