Do you want a challenging workout that combines strength, agility, and speed? Parkour is the perfect place to start! You’re in luck if you live in San Jose, as there are many classes, facilities, or outdoor training areas that will help you improve your free running skills.

Let’s begin by explaining what parkour is. Parkour is a discipline that involves moving in a natural or urban environment. It includes vaulting, jumping and climbing, as well as rolling. The goal is to get you from A to B as quickly and creatively as possible while pushing your physical limits as well as testing your mental fortitude.

Parkour has gained popularity worldwide in recent years due to the growth of social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube. It has been around for decades and its roots are in military obstacle course training, as well as the martial art of Ninjutsu. There are many parkour communities and groups around the globe today, each with their own training methods and flair.

Facilities:

• Tempest-Freerunning Academy – This indoor facility offers a variety of classes for both children and adults. There are also open gym times to practice your skills. You can learn new moves without worrying about injury thanks to the foam pits and other safety gear. All coaches are experienced parkour athletes and can guide you through each step of your journey.
• Apex Movement NorCal This Concord gym is located just north of San Jose and offers Ninja Warrior and Parkour classes. Open gym times are also available. There are several training areas available, including a salmon ladder, warped wall, foam pit and warped wall. All instructors are certified and eager to help you achieve your goals.
• Bay Area Movement– BAM offers classes in dance, acrobatics and parkour at three locations throughout the Bay Area. They are proud to foster a supportive, inclusive community for athletes of all skill levels and ages. Their coaches will help you move at your own pace while challenging yourself along the journey.

Classes:

• San Jose Parks and Recreation The Parks and Recreation department in San Jose offers classes in parkour for teens and adults. These classes are held in local parks and teach basic parkour techniques, safety, and proper technique. These classes are a great way to learn parkour without having to commit to a gym membership.
• South Bay Circus Arts This school in Santa Clara offers classes and workshops in tumbling, parkour, circus skills, and many other subjects. In a supportive setting, their parkour classes emphasize strength, flexibility, confidence, and self-confidence. They offer private and group lessons, and are open to all ages and abilities.

There are many options for outdoor training in San Jose and the surrounding areas. These are some of the most popular spots:

• Almaden Quicksilver County Park This park in San Jose has hills, rocky terrain and other natural obstacles that are perfect for parkour training. It is also home to beautiful views and wildlife making it a great spot to spend a day exploring.
• San Francisco Embarcadero This section of San Francisco’s waterfront is a favorite spot for parkour lovers, due to its abundance rails, walls and staircases. It is also convenient to many public transportation options.
• Santa Cruz Boardwalk– Although not a parkour training area specifically, the Boardwalk in Santa Cruz provides plenty of opportunities to move creatively, from climbing over benches and running up and down bleachers. After a hard workout, you can treat yourself to a burger or an ice cream cone.

Parkour is a dangerous and difficult activity, no matter where you train. It is important to take it slow, be patient, and focus on correct technique. Never attempt anything that you aren’t comfortable with. You should wear appropriate clothing and shoes and warm up and cool off before and after each session.

Parkour is a challenging and thrilling discipline that can help you stay fit, improve your confidence, and challenge your mind. There are many places in San Jose to help you improve your skills and meet other runners, no matter how advanced or novice. Give it a shot and see where your parkour journey takes.