Now, even though I’m all kicked about parkour, I’m sensible enough to take things slowly. My goals over the coming weeks are to improve my overall flexibility, [...]]]> Everyone here is new to parkour, and some have not been physically active at all over the last few years (I’m speaking for myself on that last one).

Now, even though I’m all kicked about parkour, I’m sensible enough to take things slowly. My goals over the coming weeks are to improve my overall flexibility, and to train for strength and endurance.

I’ve found some brilliant videos that help demonstrate the kind of upper body and lower body conditioning workouts that all new traceurs and free runners need to do in order to be ready for the extraordinary stresses that parkour places on your body.

Especially important are the gradual building up of not only the main muscles of the arms, legs, shoulders and back, but also the smaller supporting muscles. Why is this important? In order to ensure that your muscle development is balanced. A well rounded workout that includes stretching and complex exercies (exercises that work out multiple muscle groups) should help you achieve this.

Here are some videos, and remember to take a look at Jujimufu’s stretching, nurition (this is important, read it) and tricking tutorials (check out the videos in this section [not the videos section], very cool) for some totally brilliant information and insight into gradually developing your body, and skills. [note: Jujimufu did not pay me to write this... I just love his tutorials]

Upper Body Conditioning

Upper Body & Core Conditioning

Lower Body Conditioning

Yes, there are a tonne more out there, so head over to YouTube or Vimeo and check them out before you start off with the large jumps and tricks.

If you’ve got any favourite videos, Don’t feel shy, share them with us in the comments.