ORIGINS OF PARKOUR
Be Strong to be Useful
Parkour has a complex history dating back to the early 1900’s when Georges Hébert, a French Marine, developed “La Méthode Naturelle”. This “Natural Method” was based on the strengthening of natural human capacities such as running, jumping, throwing, swimming and defence, and was employed as the principal training method of the French Navy. It is from Georges Hébert that we take the motto “Be strong to be useful” (Être fort pour être utile).
These teachings were then adapted and combined with other military training principles when both the grandfather and father of David Belle shared their knowledge, training and experience with him. In the late 1980’s and into the ’90’s, David, with a core group of friends, took this training to the streets and forests of suburban Paris, and developed what we know today as parkour. The name ‘Parkour’ is a modification of the French word ‘parcours’, as exemplified in the phrase ‘parcours du combattant’ (military obstacle course).
Parkour is distinct from the other less recognised disciplines that originated largely alongside parkour: L’Art du Déplacement (The Art of Movement) and Freerunning.
OUR ASSOCIATION
The Brisbane Parkour Association (BPA) is a not-for-profit organisation formed in 2012, committed to delivering parkour education and encouraging safe practice of parkour across south-east Queensland. The association aims to promote parkour as an inclusive movement discipline of self-progression, exploration and play that is accessible to anyone.
The BPA is community oriented, facilitating classes and programs across south-east Queensland, including public classes, school holiday workshops, youth development programs and liaising with councils and community groups.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Parkour Workshops are available for all types of events and training.
Whether you require a one-off “Introduction to Parkour” workshop or a multiple session program tailored to your group’s specific goals, the Brisbane Parkour Association can provide a solution. Each session is designed to be site specific using, where possible, the available features and existing equipment at your venue.
Tuition fees vary depending on your individualised program and type of package required. Contact us for more information.
CLIENTS
The Brisbane Parkour Association has provided workshops in SEQ since 2008.
Some of our clients include:
