uGoGirlFriday

Parkour guys on the road

I recently noticed a group of teens running around and doing some stunts (sort of). Instead of the usual skaters jumping off their skateboard ramps, members jump, and even spin on and under railings and boxes while running towards their target place. One of them saw me staring at them and ran towards me. He gave me a pamphlet inviting me to their club. It’s a small organization doing running stunts – Parkour. I just laughed when the guy invited me to join; I told him that I wasn’t onto those kinds of sports, although I was fascinated with what they were doing.

Parkour, as explained by Nathan (one of the members) originated from the French. It is considered a form of martial arts which is focused on efficiently moving from one place to another. The methods consist of running through usual obstacles with speed and grace. Agility and balance is very important in this sport as well as dedication and discipline. It is similar to “free running” – an urban acrobatic sport.

Nathan said that we adults tend to forget that we started this running and jumping when we were still kids. This is supposed to be natural for us but since we stopped playing around, our bodies adjusted and got used to slow movement. What he said got me thinking, he has a point. However, because of my busy schedule (and my laziness), I just passed on the opportunity and just enjoyed watching.