First of all, what’s the difference between Freerunning and Parkour?
| Parkour Safety | • Parkour is NOT about death-defying stunts or rooftop jumps. It is about freedom of movement
• Don’t be misled by film and TV. Almost all stunts are performed under specific safety measures.
• Seek out professional instruction wherever possible
• If you are uncertain of your ability, don’t try the trick
• Evaluate the hazards beforehand
• Beginners are advised to work in groups and practice frequently with more experienced Traceurs.
• Sebastien Foucan may leap over rooftops – but he has 16 years Parkour experience! |
"Parkour was invented in France by a guy called David Belle – the one who did the 91Èȱ¬ 'Rush Hour' advert. Basically, it’s the art of getting from one place to another in the most efficient way. "Freerunning combines Parkour with things like martial arts and other crazy acrobatics. It’s a way of expression through movement." So how long have you been doing Parkour/Freerunning? "Just over a year." And you’re already leading a performance? "I progressed fast. At first, I was going to go pro-BMX but I struggled to find sponsorship. Then I saw stuff like Jump London and Jump Britain and was hooked by it. Freerunning just consumes your life." So what makes Freerunning stand out from other sports?
 | | Tricking outside Urbis |
"It’s the freedom of it, mainly. Anywhere can be a place for Freerunning – even a kerb! I’ve also done Karate, Kendo and Tae Kwon Doe and incorporate them into my tricks. "It’s much more physical too. It requires real determination and pushes you to a whole new level. What a lot of people don’t know is that it takes a lot of mental discipline too." Any role models or inspirations? "Freerunning wise, there’s Team Evolution. Then there are martial artists like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan. And David Belle, of course." And the grisly question - Ever had any bad accidents? | "Freerunning combines Parkour with things like martial arts and other crazy acrobatics. It’s a way of expression through movement." | | Kieran explains the difference between freerunning and parkour |
"Nothing serious – touch wood! Just sprains and bruises. But it is dangerous." What’s the biggest problem with Freerunning? "We have no promotion! We need promotion! And a permanent place to practice – like in a gym so we can try out tricks on foam mats before concrete. Freerunners get moved on a lot because people think we’re destroying things – but we’re not." Considered a nuisance then? "Definitely." What do you do outside Freerunning?
 | | Kieran flips out |
"Music college – I play bass guitar. I’m also into BMX bikes, skating and stuff like that." What trademark tricks are we to look out for? "Er… Mine are 'Kick the Moon' and wall flips." Any advice for wannabe Freerunners? "You have to practice tricks on something soft like sand first. Then go on to grass, then concrete. Also check out online sites for tricks and videos, and to find out who else is tricking in your area." | 
