How to Get Started in Parkour or Free Running

Parkour and free-running are two activities that are more like performance art than they are sports. Although parkour is generally more rigid and focused than free-running, they both offer open-minded participants the chance to expressively explore urban environments while increasing their fitness. Neither parkour nor free-running's for the faint hearted, but if you've got a sense of adventure and a healthy dose of courage, here's how you can get started.

Instructions

1. Get in the right frame of mind. Parkour and free-running are about finding your own path through the environment, not playing by someone else's rules. Allow yourself to be creative, expressive and free-flowing.

2. Buy a good pair of running shoes and some comfortable clothes. Make sure the running shoes are well-cushioned and have grippy soles.

3. Practice basic skills like the cat leap, kong vault and wall hop in a safe environment, such as a playground or grassy park. Develop the techniques you need to float through the city before you get there.

4. Learn the right way to land. Regardless of your jump's height, you should always land on the balls of your feet with your knees bent. For big drops, you'll need to roll out of the landing.

5. Warm up before you hit the streets. Light jogging, dynamic stretching and basic calisthenics are good ways to get your body loose and prepare your muscles for the rigors of your workout.

6. Make slow, but steady progress. Don't head out on your first run and try big drops or top-speed vaults. Take time to sharpen your skills and increase your strength before pushing your limits.