In London, Parkour Generations runs kids parkour classes (http://parkourgenerations.com/class?classtype=youth http://parkourgenerations.com/class?classtype=yout

In London, Parkour Generations runs kids parkour classes (http://parkourgenerations.com/class?classtype=youth http://parkourgenerations.com/class?classtype=youth). While they do have dedicated gyms most of the classes are still run outside, in keeping with the general philosophy of parkour. A lot of what is taught in these classes is not specific physical techniques but instead how to be aware of your own limits, how to push your limits safely and how to deal with fear. The effect on the confidence and maturity of the kids is incredible. The general feeling of a lot of traceurs is that not only do padded floors and crash mats not keep you safe, but that training only in 'safe' environments makes you dangerously complacent. Soft landings disguise lots of dangerous habits and it only takes an awkward angle or a turned ankle to turn that into a broken bone. Anecdotally, my only parkour injury occurred in NYC where (thanks to the wonderfully friendly NY police) I spent a few months only training indoors in a padded gym.