This children’s article, What is parkour?, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children build vocabulary, learn about the history of parkour, and discover why it’s such an exciting sport. Written by Mark Pulley, a teacher and writer who creates fun and informative news articles for English learners.
What is parkour?
Parkour is all about moving quickly and creatively through your environment. Instead of walking around an obstacle, you leap over it, climb it, or swing past it. People who practise parkour are called traceurs, and they use skills like running, vaulting, rolling, and climbing to get around.
It’s sometimes described as “freedom of movement” because there are no set courses or tracks. The world becomes your playground, whether that’s a park, a playground, or even the city streets.
The history of parkour
Parkour started in France in the 1990s. A Frenchman called David Belle is often seen as its founder. He was inspired by his father, who had trained in the military and taught him to be strong, quick, and agile.
The word “parkour” comes from the French phrase parcours du combattant, meaning “obstacle course.” What began as one man’s training exercises has grown into a worldwide phenomenon.
Controversy and safety
Not everyone agrees that parkour is a good idea. Some people think it’s too dangerous, especially when practised on tall buildings or near traffic. Others worry that it can damage property like fences, rooftops, and walls.
But supporters argue that, when it’s done in safe places and with good training, it’s an excellent way to stay fit. Many cities now have parkour gyms where athletes can practise without risk.
Parkour today
Today, parkour is popular worldwide, especially with teenagers and young adults. You’ll find countless videos online showing amazing stunts, and the moves often appear in action films and video games. Even firefighters and police officers use parkour training to move quickly in emergencies.
There are also competitions, such as Red Bull’s Art of Motion. Some events test speed, while others focus on style and creativity. Parkour may not be as old as football or tennis, but it’s one of the most exciting and modern sports around.
Article vocabulary list
- Obstacle: Something that blocks your way, and you need to get past
- Traceur: A person who practises parkour
- Agile: Able to move quickly and easily
- Vaulting: Jumping over something using your hands or legs
- Controversial: Something that people disagree about
- Property: Things like buildings, fences, or walls that belong to someone
- Self-improvement: Working to make yourself better at something
- Creativity: Using your imagination to make new ideas or movements
Comprehension questions
Just click the plus (+) to see the answer
1. What is parkour mainly about?
A) Building obstacles
B) Moving through environments using jumps and climbs
C) Riding bikes in the city
Answer: B) Moving through environments using jumps and climbs
2. Who is often called the founder of parkour?
A) David Belle
B) Sean Duffy
C) Joel Hurowitz
Answer: A) David Belle
3. Why do some people think parkour is controversial?
A) Because it’s boring
B) Because it might be dangerous or damage property
C) Because it uses too much equipment
Answer: B) Because it might be dangerous or damage property
4. Where did parkour start?
A) England
B) France
C) Japan
Answer: B) France
5. What is Red Bull’s Art of Motion?
A) A video game
B) A famous parkour competition
C) A type of training exercise
Answer: B) A famous parkour competition
Mark is a writer and EFL teacher from England with eight years’ experience. He’s passionate about travel, sport (especially football), animals, nature, and history, and enjoys helping children explore the world through language and learning.
