Introduction to Parkour for Schools

Parkour is gaining popularity. Many schools now offer lessons as part their physical education (PE). Parkour is a form of physical art that requires participants to use their body and environment to move as efficiently and quickly as possible. It is not a competition. Instead, it focuses on challenging each individual to move as efficiently and discovering their limits.

Parkour’s benefits for schools

Parkour in schools can have many benefits such as:

• Improved physical fitness, agility, and coordination
• Encourage risk-taking and creative problem solving
• Confidence and self-esteem – Improving confidence
• Teaching group collaboration and social skills development
• Achieving freedom, self-expression, and individualism

Parkour is a great way for children to learn about the world of fitness. It encourages them to discover their potential while still challenging themselves to overcome obstacles. It can also teach children safety, best practice, and the importance of pushing boundaries.

Parkour Training for Schools – What You Should Know

Parkour classes are most commonly offered in groups by schools that have a qualified instructor. This ensures that the participants are safe and can follow the instructions of the instructor. The instructor will usually start with a warm up, then move on to teaching specific techniques. These techniques include vaulting, jumping, balancing, rolling, and vaulting.

The instructor should make sure that children are familiar with the safety rules and that exercises are appropriate for their age and abilities.

Parkour Safety Rules for Schools

Instructors should explain safety rules before each lesson. They should also be followed at all times. These could include:

• Only perform exercises that are appropriate for their ability level
• Never train alone, and never compete with each other.
• Do not attempt any technique without the supervision of an instructor
• Protective equipment such as elbow, wrist and knee pads should always be worn
• Be prepared to safely and responsibly use obstacles
• Listen to the instructor, and follow their instructions.
• Regular breaks are important to avoid becoming fatigued.

These safety rules will ensure that children have a safe and enjoyable parkour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Parkour for Schools

• Q. When can children learn parkour skills?A. This is a personal question. However, children as young as 5-7 years old can start to learn basic parkour skills like jumping, rolling, and vaulting.
• Q. Is parkour safe for children?
  
  A: Parkour, like any other physical activity, can present risks. However, these can be reduced by making sure that all participants follow safety rules and are properly supervised by a qualified instructor.
• Q. How often should children participate in parkour?
  
  A: It depends on the person and the level of challenge they are able to handle. However, parkour lessons should be taken only once per week. Regular breaks are necessary to avoid becoming too tired.
• Q. What should children wear to parkour lessons?
  
  A: Children should wear loose, comfortable clothes and appropriate protective equipment, such as elbow, wrist and knee pads.
• Q. How much do parkour lessons run?
  
  A: It depends on the school and how large the group is. A two-hour lesson can cost between $45-$65 per child.
• Q. What are parkour obstacle courses?
  
  A: Parkour obstacle courses typically include a variety of physical exercises and techniques, such as vaulting and climbing, jumping, balancing, rolling, and jumping. Other courses may include additional challenges like climbing walls, swinging ropes and jumping through tyres.
• Q. What is the difference in parkour and free running?
  
  A: While they have many similar techniques, parkour focuses on getting from one place to another as quickly and efficiently as possible. Free running, on the other hand, is more focused on creativity and finding new and creative ways to move.
• Q. How long does it take for you to become proficient at parkour?
  
  A: It depends on the individual and how much practice they put in, but most people can learn basic parkour techniques within a few weeks.
• Q. Does parkour require strength or endurance?
  
  A: Strength and endurance are important, but parkour is more about technique than endurance. It does not require a lot of strength or endurance.
• Q. Are there any competitions in parkour.
  
  A: Although there are some competitions that involve parkour-style obstacles it is not a competitive sport. Parkour is an art form.
• Q. What are the benefits to parkour for schools?
  
  A: Parkour is a great option for schools. It improves physical fitness, agility, coordination, encourages risk-taking, problem solving, self-confidence, social skills, and gives you a sense of freedom.
• Q. How do I find a qualified instructor in parkour for my school?
  
  A: You can search for parkour instructors in your area or contact an international parkour association like the International Gymnastics Federation. To find a qualified instructor to teach your school, you will need to be certified.

Conclusion

Parkour can be introduced to schools by educators. This allows them to create a supportive and safe environment for children to explore their physical abilities. It’s a great way for educators to teach children safety rules, best practices, and boundaries pushing records. It also helps to instill confidence, self-expression, and creativity in their students.

Parkour for schools is a great way to keep children engaged and active, regardless of age or ability. You will have a safe and enjoyable experience if you hire a qualified instructor.