Parkour or the art of free movement is an intense physical discipline wherein a participant has to move forward, overcoming any obstacles that threaten to slow down the progress. What sets Parkour different from other forms of physical training is that the practitioners make use of their body, hands and feet for movement and there are no external aides used like ropes, jumping poles etc. This is a perfect example of complete synergy between a man and his surroundings. Parkour in its modern form was introduced to the new world around 15 years back and owes its origin to a French naval officer and physical education coach, Georges Hebert. Hebert, during his travel to Africa, saw that the natives moved about freely from one place to another by jumping, leaping or rolling and the precision with which they were able to achieve this task was attributed to their flexible and lithe movements which were in tandem with their surroundings.

Parkour does not have any predefined techniques because the scope is immense but there are certain basic movements which a trainee should master in order to efficiently move forward. Cat leap, Roll, Precision Jump, Kong vault and speed vault are some of the techniques which are emphasized upon. Parkour has found its place in military training because it enables a soldier to move forward quickly and unaided in time of need. Parkour requires absolute coordination between a traceur's mind and body and helps in development of life skills like endurance, quick thinking and decision making which are crucial for the success of an army man in battlefield. Parkour has found its way in modern day health and fitness regimes because of its free flowing movements. Once a training program for military, Parkour is today practiced across the globe and its popularity is growing day-by-day.

Tags & Keywords : parkour,physical discipline,free movement