Here's a timeline of key events and developments that contributed to the rise of Parkour:
1. Early Origins (1980s-1990s):
- Parkour originated in the late 1980s in France, pioneered by French practitioner David Belle and his friends (known as the Yamakasi).
- They drew inspiration from military obstacle training, gymnastics, and martial arts.
2. Videos and Documentaries (Early 2000s):
- The documentary "Jump London" (2003) and videos of Parkour began circulating on the internet, grabbing the attention of a broader audience.
3. Mainstream Exposure (2004-2005):
- The James Bond movie "Casino Royale" (2006) featured Parkour sequences performed by actor Daniel Craig, increasing its global visibility and mainstream popularity.
4. Growth of Online Communities:
- Online platforms like YouTube and dedicated Parkour forums facilitated the sharing of videos and tutorials, creating a strong global community of practitioners and enthusiasts.
5. International Competitions:
- Parkour competitions like the World Freerunning Parkour Championships (WFPF) and Red Bull Art of Motion helped further popularize the discipline and showcased the skills of top athletes.
6. Inclusion in Video Games:
- Parkour elements were incorporated into video games such as "Mirror's Edge," "Assassin's Creed," and "Prince of Persia," introducing it to a wider gaming audience.
7. Commercialization and Branding:
- Brands and companies began to associate with Parkour for advertising, leading to the creation of sponsored athlete teams, merchandise, and commercial events.
Since the early 2000s, Parkour has continued to grow in popularity and spread to different parts of the world. While it originated as a form of urban movement training and expression, it has evolved into a recognized discipline, with gyms, training facilities, and Parkour classes appearing in many countries.