#Japan #Tokyo #YAMAKASI #Japan Parkour #Parkour Day

Parkour Day Established in Japan

On August 9th, the Japan Parkour Association (JPA) officially designated this day as "Parkour Day," promoting the growth and recognition of parkour throughout the country. Established in 2014, the JPA aims to uphold the principles of the founding group, YAMAKASI, while also adapting to the sport's evolution as it prepares for potential inclusion in the Olympics. The designation of Parkour Day serves to unify enthusiasts, known as traceurs, and heighten community awareness.

The Essence of YAMAKASI

YAMAKASI, a group of nine founders including David Belle, emerged from the suburbs of Paris. Their legacy includes the development of concepts such as "l'art du déplacement" (the art of movement) and the term "parkour" in the 1980s, which translates to a resilient spirit in Lingala. Their philosophy emphasizes strength both physically and mentally, fostering a community that values trust and teamwork.

The Japan Parkour Association (JPA)

The JPA is committed to preserving and disseminating the original culture of parkour. This organization not only advocates the spread of parkour across Japan but also collaborates with businesses to create a unified approach to practice and education. The JPA serves as a key resource for people new to parkour, ensuring that they have accurate information, thus preventing the proliferation of incorrect practices.

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What is Parkour?

Parkour is a French-born training culture that explores movement through running, jumping, and climbing. This practice cultivates one's mind, heart, and body through a cycle of thinking, small challenges, and overcoming barriers. It fosters logical thinking and spatial awareness while helping individuals build resilience against psychological challenges through physical feats. Moreover, practitioners learn proper body movements, enhancing their overall physical capabilities.

Roots in Military Training

The origins of parkour date back to the early 20th century with Georges Hébert's "Méthode Naturelle," a military training method designed to develop soldiers' agility and strength as they navigated natural terrains and man-made obstacles. This practice not only enhanced physical prowess but also solidified teamwork among soldiers. Today, parkour is widely adopted by military, fire, and police forces around the world and has laid the groundwork for obstacle races as a popular form of entertainment.

Expanding to Competitions and Education

The 2024 Paris Olympics has leveraged parkour in its opening ceremonies, generating significant excitement. The derivative sport of competitive parkour is gaining momentum towards becoming an Olympic event. Parkour is also finding its place in movies, commercials, live performances, and gaming. In education, countries like the UK and Denmark have integrated parkour into their school curriculums, promoting a fun and engaging way for students to learn and develop better social skills.

The Future of Parkour

Parkour's practice has transcended age and ability, inviting participation from young children in educational programs and senior fitness routines. However, challenges remain regarding standardized practices and societal integration. The JPA aims to lead efforts alongside existing organizations and practitioners to promote accurate knowledge of parkour. We will execute nationwide school programs in partnership with local businesses, aiming to enhance children’s physical skills and broaden their opportunities in the realm of physical exercise.

Leadership within the JPA

With a strong background in parkour, the JPA's president, Jun Sato, is a seasoned participant in the TBS program “SASUKE” and has maintained a close relationship with the YAMAKASI members. His leadership focuses on the fundamental growth of parkour in Japan and ensuring practices remain conducive to the practitioners' welfare as well as contributing to a more active society through the sport.

For media inquiries regarding this announcement, please contact: Kanatani at [email protected].