Note: This Page is the same as the General FAQs page.
- What is parkour???
- Is there a difference between parkour and freerunning?
- Where is B.A.S.E. Fitness located?
- What does the facility look like (what is the setup on the inside)?
- What should I bring to class?
Q: What is parkour???
A: Parkour is the art of overcoming obstacles as quickly and efficiently as possible using only your body. The basics include running, jumping, and climbing, and we build on these basics to improve our ability to pass over, under, around and through obstacles with more complex movements. Parkour is a system of fitness training that improves Balance, Agility, Strength, and Endurance, as well as co-ordination, stamina, and precision. It offers a complete workout for the entire body no matter what your level of experience may be. To actually see what we do at B.A.S.E., visit our Media Section.
Parkour practitioners are called traceurs.
Q: Is there a difference between parkour and freerunning?
A: Arguably, there is a difference between parkour and freerunning, but they both have the same beginnings. Parkour got its start with a group who called themselves Yamakasi and called what they did either Parcours or L’art Du Deplacement. However, more recently they have gone their separate ways. One of the original members, David Bell, calls his art Parkour and stresses utility, while another, Sebastian Foucan, uses the term “Free Running” and stresses freedom of movement and finding your own way. Remaining members of the Yamakasi use the term “L’art Du Deplacement” and focus on the development of courage and strength through training. All are a part of the training that traceurs do and the first generation traceurs stress that it does not matter what you call it, only why you personally train the way you do. For more details, see our History section.
Q: Is it safe?
A: Like any sport, Parkour can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Most Parkour injuries occur when the traceur is careless or attempting something beyond their capabilities (for example, jumping from too high up or too far away). And like any new physical activity, those starting out will have to get accustomed to using new muscle groups and body motions which can lead to anything from soreness to more serious injury if overly strenuous activity is attempted too soon. Each traceur must be able to know his or her limitations and progress at a rate that is appropriate. Many times some of the more experienced traceurs can help judge when it is right for you to attempt certain things, but ultimately you must be responsible for yourself. This last part cannot be stressed enough: we take safety and personal responsibility very seriously. Regular Parkour practice makes us stronger, faster, more focused and more adaptable to all kinds of problems. If you’re just beginning to practice parkour or would just like more information, read through the rest of our FAQs, feel free to browse our website and see what we’re all about (especially our Media Section), visit our affiliates’ pages, and of course, feel free to contact us.
Q: Where is B.A.S.E. Fitness located?
A: We recently moved to a new location. Our current address is:
10080 E. 121st Street Suite 100
Q: What does the facility look like (what is the setup on the inside)?
A: The B.A.S.E. Fitness facility is completely dedicated to parkour, though much of our equipment can have multiple purposes. Most of our equipment is custom-designed and built specifically for our facility. We also incorporate a few pieces of gymnastics equipment including crash mats for safety. For a more detailed look at our facility, please feel free to visit us at our location here, or visit Our New Location post.
Q: What do classes cost?
A: Our regular parkour classes only cost $10 per 2-hour session and there is no membership or other fees required. Other classes may have a different pricing structure. Please see our Class Cost page for details.
Q: What should I bring to class?
A: Our classes require only a few basics essentials.
A signed waiver form (first class only).
Comfortable athletic wear (shorts are okay, though some traceurs prefer pants).
A willingness to push yourself.
A positive mental attitude.
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