What is a parkour coach?

A parkour coach is a skilled individual who guides and instructs people in the practice of parkour. They help practitioners safely and effectively navigate obstacles using running, jumping, climbing, and other movement techniques. Here’s a breakdown of their responsibilities:

Technical Expertise

• Movement Skills: A parkour coach must possess a deep understanding of various parkour movements, including vaults, rolls, climbs, and landings. Generally, parkour coaches can demonstrate these movements proficiently and explain them clearly with progressions.
• Safe Techniques: They prioritize safety by teaching proper landing techniques, utilizing spotting methods, and assessing risks to minimize injuries.
• Progression Planning: Based on individual abilities and goals, they design lesson plans that progressively challenge student practitioners while keeping them safe.

Coaching Skills

• Motivation and Encouragement: Parkour coaches foster a positive and supportive environment that motivates student athletes to overcome challenges and push their limits.
• Communication and Feedback: They clearly communicate instructions, provide constructive feedback, and adapt their teaching style to suit individual learning styles.
• Observation and Assessment: They closely observe their students to identify strengths, weaknesses, and potential risks, adjusting their coaching accordingly.

Qualifications

• Experience: Many parkour coaches have extensive experience practicing the discipline themselves, often at a high level.
• Certification: While not universally required, certifications from recognized organizations (ADAPT, APK, or ParkourEDU) demonstrate a commitment to safe and effective coaching practices.

Overall, parkour coaches play a crucial role in facilitating the safe and enjoyable development of parkour practitioners of all levels.