5 Types of Parkour

Parkour can simply be defined as moving with obstacles but there are many different styles of training that can be hard to make sense of.

Without being too pedantic, I like to say there are 5 types of parkour: traditional, freestyle, adventure, ninja, and fitness.

#1 - Traditional Parkour

This is classic parkour training that consists of practicing the fundamental techniques to move around obstacles in the most efficient way possible.

Traditional parkour focuses on the foundational movements of jumping, climbing, and vaulting. All the other types of parkour are a variation of this.

#2 - Freestyle Parkour

AKA Freerunning. This is when flips, tricks, and expressive movements are incorporated into obstacle challenges.

Freestyle parkour has many different styles of its own, like off-axis, gizmo, tricking, street acro, and obstacle dancing.

#3 - Adventure Parkour

Adventure parkour is when you go the distance and put your skills to the test by practicing moving around obstacles though urban exploration and (micro) adventures.

These missions include activities like exploring rooftops, boudler hopping across rivers, traversing under bridges, and cliff jumping.

#4 - Ninja Parkour

Ninja parkour is simulated adventure course training. These courses often include moving obstacles, tools, and lots of swings.

This provides fun mission-based challenges in a safe and structured environment.

#5 - Fitness Parkour

Fitness parkour is practicing repetive obstacle movements as part of a fitness routine for strength, cardio, or conditioning. This can be done by drilling basic moves or adding obstacles into a fitness circuit.

Fitness parkour is a great way to get started. If you haven't already, learn more about that in my article about Parkour Advocacy.