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Mark Toorock | Parkour in Schools →

Published January 23, 2019  ·  All posts on Jan 23

On Castbox.fm — Mark Toorock | Parkour in Schools

What are the challenges and opportunities of introducing Parkour into public school physical education programs?

Parkour education promotes self-confidence and creativity in students through physical play.

I think that people have a hard time visualizing what a Parkour program in schools may actually look like. And that’s one of the things I’m helping people to discover is, what does Parkour in schools actually mean? What does it look like?

~ Mark Toorock (0:36)

The conversation explores the challenges and successes of integrating Parkour into public school systems. Mark details experiences working with two different school districts—one in Washington, DC, and the other in Maryland—highlighting the differences in approach and adoption. A key barrier discussed is the structure of physical education, which traditionally favors team sports over movement-based activities like Parkour. Mark emphasizes that while Parkour resonates with hands-on, passionate coaches, the reality of public education limits external instructors’ involvement, necessitating a scalable teacher-training model.

A major theme is the need for systemic change to create sustainable Parkour programs. The conversation stresses the importance of having an internal champion within school systems to advocate for the program, as administrative support often outweighs logistical concerns like equipment or curriculum design. Mark also shares a personal passion for encouraging lifelong play and movement, challenging the societal norm that play must cease in adulthood. The goal is to foster curiosity and movement in public spaces without shame, reinforcing Parkour’s broader philosophical underpinnings.

Takeaways

Parkour in schools — Parkour programs shift physical education from team sports to movement-based activities, fostering creativity and confidence.

Teacher training limitations — Training teachers to deliver Parkour programs is constrained by limited professional development time, requiring focused, simplified curriculum.

Scaling programs — Direct external coaching in schools is impractical for widespread adoption; training existing teachers is necessary for scale.

Administrative buy-in — Having a program champion within the school system is critical to ensure long-term success and overcome bureaucratic resistance.

Cultural barriers — Social norms discourage adults from engaging in playful movement, reinforcing a restrictive perception of acceptable behavior.

Voluntary adoption — Programs thrive when implemented in schools with willing, passionate staff rather than being mandated across districts.

Public play challenge — Encouraging public play challenges preconceived notions about adulthood and promotes rediscovery of movement.

Resources

American Parkour — Organization founded by Mark Toorock dedicated to promoting Parkour education and practice.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Marcello Palozzo: Strength and conditioning, teaching, and learning →

Published January 23, 2019  ·  All posts on Jan 23  ·  

Marcello Palozzo: Strength and conditioning, teaching, and learning

What are the principles and practices that lead to personal growth, meaningful teaching, and effective learning in physical disciplines?

Marcello Palozzo discusses his studies in the area of strength and conditioning, his relationship with Ido Portal, and how to capture information to optimize your learning. He shares his insights on teaching and learning, discussing the responsibilities of a teacher. Marcello explains how he found his current path, as well as his goals and plans for the future.

True learning should be emotional. Unless there is that element as well in it, something is missing.

~ Marcello Palozzo (5:10)

Marcello discusses his approach to integrating diverse fields of knowledge, including parkour, strength training, and the methodologies learned from his master’s degree studies and training with Ido Portal. He emphasizes the importance of stepping out of comfort zones and creating routines that challenge both physical and emotional boundaries. His philosophy underscores the need for learning to have an emotional component to ensure genuine and impactful growth.

The conversation also explores Marcello’s teaching methods, advocating for learners to actively engage with material by organizing and revisiting it, rather than passively consuming information. Marcello shares his experiences of redefining his career path, abandoning pharmacy studies, and committing fully to movement disciplines. Marcello reflects on the significance of mentorship, community, and continuous exploration in personal and professional development.

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On reading →

Published January 21, 2019  ·  All posts on Jan 21

In this age, which believes that there is a short cut to everything, the greatest lesson to be learned is that the most difficult way is, in the long run, the easiest. All that is set forth in books, all that seems so terribly vital and significant, is but an iota of that from which it stems and which it is within everyone’s power to tap. Our whole theory of education is based on the absurd notion that we must learn to swim on land before tackling the water. It applies to the pursuit of the arts as well as to the pursuit of knowledge. Men are still being taught to create by studying other men’s works or by making plans and sketches never intended to materialize. The art of writing is taught in the classroom instead of in the thick of life. Students are still being handed models which are supposed to fit all temperaments, all kinds of intelligence. No wonder we produce better engineers than writers, better industrial experts than painters.

~ Henry Miller from, Henry Miller on Reading, the Life of the Mind, and How to Fix Education

slip:4ubahe2.

This reminds me of how moving seems to be the only way to sort myself out. Studying movement won’t do.

I often remind myself to always “deploy forward.” Assess. Make a choice. Move. (That would be a move “forward” by definition, since “assess” and “choose” are how I figure out which way “forward” is.) Except in the most extreme cases—so rare as to be almost not worth mentioning—never try to undo (what programs would call “roll-back”) a step. Simply assess, choose and move from the new position.

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Pascal Lecurieux | Parkour Pentagon →

Published January 9, 2019  ·  All posts on Jan 9

On Castbox.fm — Pascal Lecurieux | Parkour Pentagon

What are the key elements of the Parkour Specialization Pentagon System, and how can they help individuals identify and develop their strengths in Parkour?

Identifying strengths and weaknesses through the Pentagon System transforms how practitioners approach Parkour.

I gave them an exercise where they had to pinpoint their own specialization and see where they are right now and where they want to go.

~ Pascal Lecurieux (6:28)

The conversation focuses on the Parkour Specialization Pentagon System developed by Pascal, which organizes Parkour into five key aspects: strength, adaptation, speed, fluidity, and freestyle. Each dimension provides a lens for practitioners to evaluate their current abilities and identify areas for improvement. Pascal explains the unique qualities and objectives of each aspect, illustrating how they connect to both traditional and modern interpretations of Parkour.

Additionally, the discussion highlights the practical applications of the system in coaching and personal development. Pascal shares anecdotes, such as a young student discovering her niche in fluidity, showcasing the system’s capacity to unlock individual potential. The system also fosters community bonding by encouraging practitioners to collaborate and share their unique styles.

Takeaways

Strength — Emphasizes foundational physical capabilities like power moves and scaling higher walls.

Adaptation — Highlights the importance of applying techniques effectively in diverse environments.

Speed — Focuses on refining techniques for real-time execution under dynamic conditions.

Fluidity — Encourages emotional connection to movement, chaining moves seamlessly, and reducing impact.

Freestyle — Celebrates creativity by adding personalized elements like flips or rotations to standard techniques.

Analytical coaching — Provides tools to assess and guide students based on their strengths and goals.

Community-building — Promotes collaboration by connecting individuals with similar specializations.

Practical exercises — Engages participants with activities to assess and explore their personal Parkour styles.

Resources

ParkourBits.com — Pascal’s blog where he shares insights and experiences in Parkour.

The Spot Montreal — The Parkour facility where Pascal coaches and implements his system.

Art of Retreat

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Dan Edwardes | Cultivating Confidence, Fear, and Flow →

Published January 2, 2019  ·  All posts on Jan 2

On Castbox.fm — Dan Edwardes | Cultivating Confidence, Fear, and Flow

What are the most effective methods for understanding and managing fear in physical and mental practices?

Exploring how fear shapes movement and mindset in Parkour and beyond.

The stories can be changed, but fear as a raw emotion is a good thing.

~ Dan Edwardes (4:26)

This conversation focuses on the role of fear in Parkour training and its broader implications for personal growth. Dan explains that fear itself is a natural and helpful emotion, distinct from the stories or narratives people attach to it over time. He challenges the conventional approach of overcoming fear through adrenaline or suppression, advocating instead for building a positive relationship with fear by understanding and accepting it as an ally.

The discussion highlights practical techniques for coaches, such as familiarizing students with the emotion of fear in controlled settings, separating the raw emotion from its associated narratives, and encouraging a focus on controllable elements of challenges. Dan emphasizes that this approach not only enhances physical performance but also fosters deeper psychological resilience and confidence.

Takeaways

Fear as an ally — Fear is a protective emotion that can be transformed into a helpful guide when understood and accepted.

Narrative distinction — Separating the raw emotion of fear from the stories attached to it is key to managing it effectively.

Coaching strategies — Coaches can help students by familiarizing them with the sensation of fear without immediate action, fostering comfort with the emotion.

Controlling the controllables — Focusing on elements within one’s control, such as technique and preparation, reduces fear associated with specific challenges.

Limitations of suppression — Overcoming fear through suppression or adrenaline may yield short-term results but lacks the depth to build lasting confidence.

Parkour as a fear practice — Parkour uniquely integrates fear management into its core, making it a valuable framework for broader life applications.

Resources

Parkour Generations — Organization co-founded by Dan Edwardes, focusing on Parkour training and education.

ADAPT Qualifications — Certification program for Parkour coaching and training, developed by Dan Edwardes.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Dylan Johanson | Salsa for Fluidity →

Published December 26, 2018  ·  All posts on Dec 26

On Castbox.fm — Dylan Johanson | Salsa for Fluidity

What are the transferable skills between salsa dancing and Parkour, and how can they enhance physical training and movement?

Highlighting how musicality and timing contribute to better control and creativity in physical movement.

I challenge you to go and ask somebody to dance.

~ Dylan Johanson (7:20)

The conversation focuses on the intersection between salsa dancing and Parkour, exploring how skills developed in dance, such as fluidity, decisiveness, and responsiveness, translate to movement training. By engaging in salsa, practitioners improve their ability to make quick decisions and adapt to unpredictable situations, mirroring the dynamic challenges faced during Parkour. The discussion emphasizes how leading in salsa fosters decision-making, while following sharpens sensitivity to physical cues—both of which align closely with attributes beneficial to Parkour.

The dialogue gets into the personal journey of discovering this crossover and the unexpected ways in which dance has influenced balance, recovery, and flow in Parkour. Additionally, the session touches on how participants resonated with the material, recognizing the value of timing, spacing, and musicality in movement practice. The session ends with practical suggestions for incorporating salsa into daily routines to enhance Parkour skills, encouraging participants to engage in social dance events to further develop their abilities.

Takeaways

Salsa and Parkour crossover — There are transferable skills between salsa dancing and Parkour, particularly in fluidity, decisiveness, and responsiveness.

Lead-follow dynamics — Leading in salsa sharpens decision-making, while following develops sensitivity to movement cues, both of which are beneficial in Parkour.

Balance and recovery — Practicing salsa helps improve balance and the ability to recover from compromised positions, aiding in obstacle navigation.

Pacing and timing — Musicality and pacing in dance relate to the timing required in Parkour routes, contributing to smoother and more controlled movement.

Group movement awareness — Salsa highlights the importance of timing and spacing in collaborative movements, mirroring the coordination needed for group Parkour sessions.

Practical exercises — Practicing basic salsa steps or attending social dances can reinforce foundational movement skills applicable to Parkour training.

Resources

Innate Movement Parkour

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Marcus Lincoln | Parkour Concepts →

Published December 12, 2018  ·  All posts on Dec 12

On Castbox.fm — Marcus Lincoln | Parkour Concepts

What is the relationship between movement patterns, environmental constraints, and personal development in Parkour practice?

Discovering how Parkour integrates with everyday life and personal values.

What positions and what movements do I want to shape my body with? Or what do I want my body to be shaped by?

~ Marcus Lincoln (16:15)

The conversation considers the nuances of visualizing movement in Parkour, using concepts such as the “movement continuum” to break down and analyze motion. Topics include the biomechanical and environmental constraints on movement, as well as how practitioners can interpret and adapt to these factors. The discussion emphasizes how understanding patterns and positions can lead to both creative expression and refined techniques.

The second part focuses on actionable insights for practitioners, encouraging self-awareness and exploration of daily movement patterns. Suggestions include varying tempo, rhythm, and technique, while aligning movements with personal values and goals. The conversation highlights how Parkour principles extend into broader life practices, advocating for continuous improvement through awareness and incremental changes.

Takeaways

Visualizing movement — The concept of a movement continuum helps practitioners analyze patterns and improve their techniques.

Environmental constraints — How the environment shapes the potential for movement and influences decision-making.

Creative exploration — Using unfamiliar techniques or combining patterns to expand movement vocabulary.

Integration with daily life — Recognizing how Parkour principles affect broader aspects of life, including health and habits.

Incremental progress — The value of small, deliberate changes in movement and practice.

Biomechanical analysis — Breaking down movements into sub-phases to improve efficiency and adaptability.

Awareness of patterns — Identifying repetitive actions to build a foundation for varied and creative movements.

Potentiality in movement — Exploring the interplay between constraints and choices within a given environment.

Resources

Parkour Generations — A global organization dedicated to Parkour training and education.

Art of Retreat — A leadership and education conference for Parkour practitioners and enthusiasts.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Stany Boulifard Mallet: Art du Déplacement, the Yamakasi, and motivation →

Published December 7, 2018  ·  All posts on Dec 7  ·  

023. Stany Boulifard Mallet: Art du Déplacement, the Yamakasi, and motivation

What is the deeper philosophy behind Art du Déplacement, and how does it shape both movement practice and personal growth?

Stany Boulifard Mallet sits down with Craig to discuss his Art du Déplacement (ADD) journey, his practice, and his relationship with the founders. He shares how he met the Yamakasi, and the impact that they have had on his training over the years. Stany also unpacks his thoughts on the motivation behind ADD and his own reasons for training.

You can choose to be ready; you can choose to train.

~ Stany Boulifard Mallet (18:20)

The conversation explores the philosophy and practices of Art du Déplacement, focusing on its origins with the Yamakasi and their transformative approach to movement. Stany shares his personal journey, from discovering the discipline as a teenager inspired by the Yamakasi movie, to training under the founders. He reflects on the mental, emotional, and physical dimensions of the practice, emphasizing how it cultivates self-awareness and connection.

A significant portion of the discussion digs into specific training methods, such as the “be ready in an instant” exercise, and the importance of aligning spirit, body, and heart in movement. Stany also highlights the ethos of humility and humanity demonstrated by the founders, and how their teaching extends beyond physicality to deeper questions about purpose and emotional connection in life.

(more…)

John ‘Hedge’ Hall: Scottish viewpoint, cultures, and society →

Published November 22, 2018  ·  All posts on Nov 22  ·  

John ‘Hedge’ Hall: Scottish viewpoint, cultures, and society

What lessons can parkour teach about culture, education, and personal development?

Craig travels to Edinburgh, Scotland to interview John “Hedge” Hall about the culture of parkour, his ideas on how Scotland views parkour, and his own personal movement journey. Hedge unpacks how different cultures and societies adapt parkour to fit them and the impact of cultural norms on their practice. Touching a bit on coaching, Hedge discusses the impact of educational environments on his students.

Parkour is shaped like the hole that people feel is missing in their society.

~ John ‘Hedge’ Hall (12:00)

The conversation explores the cultural nuances of parkour, showing how it adapts to the societal needs of different regions. It examines the contrasting competitive nature of parkour in the United States versus its integration into daily life and education in Scotland. Insights from anthropological studies are discussed, highlighting how parkour serves as a response to societal gaps, shaped by local culture.

The discussion shifts to pedagogy, with an emphasis on using parkour as a tool for inclusive education. It explains the value of teaching novices through inflexible concepts while gradually introducing flexible ones as they gain experience. Practical examples include introducing parkour into schools to foster natural play and physical development. The speaker also shares personal reflections on self-improvement and the importance of honesty in building habits, tying it to broader life lessons.

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Amos Rendao | The Art of Falling →

Published November 21, 2018  ·  All posts on Nov 21

On Castbox.fm — Amos Rendao | The Art of Falling

What principles and methods can enhance the practice of falling safely and effectively in Parkour and other movement arts?

Exploring the art of falling to revolutionize confidence and safety in movement training.

The term Parkour Ukemi comes from my two biggest sources of inspiration. Ukemi is a Japanese term from Aikido. That is my original inspiration for an organized study of falling.

~ Amos Redao (0:41)

The conversation introduces the concept of “Parkour Ukemi,” a system inspired by Aikido’s study of falling and adapted for the rigorous demands of Parkour. Amos outlines the challenges of falling in complex and varied environments, emphasizing the importance of a unifying theory that links different falling techniques to body orientations and other variables. This approach aims to make falling techniques accessible, safe, and intuitive for practitioners, enhancing their ability to troubleshoot and learn independently.

Amos also highlights the value of integrating falling practice into regular training. This practice not only builds confidence and reduces fear but also accelerates the learning process by allowing practitioners to explore their limits safely. The curriculum, summarized in an online course titled “The Art of Falling,” represents over a decade of study and experimentation, offering structured guidance to improve training outcomes and enjoyment.

Takeaways

Falling as a skill — Falling is a critical yet often neglected skill in Parkour and movement disciplines.

Unifying theory of falling — A framework that connects various falling techniques to body orientation and environmental factors.

Aikido’s influence — Insights from Aikido’s Ukemi serve as a foundation for developing falling techniques in Parkour.

Complexity of falling — Variables like surface type, speed, and obstacles create diverse continuums in falling methods.

Confidence through practice — Regular falling practice reduces fear, enhances confidence, and makes training more playful.

Accelerated learning — Safe exploration of failure leads to faster skill acquisition and personal growth.

Structured curriculum — Over a decade of study culminates in an organized online course, “The Art of Falling.”

Playfulness in training — Mastery of falling transforms fear into fun, enabling daring and creative movements.

Parkour EDU — A platform offering resources and the online course “The Art of Falling,” developed by the guest.

Art of Retreat

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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