The dazzling feats of physical prowess known as parkour has flipped onto the scene in Prince George.
Originally developed in France, the main purpose of the activity is to race through urban areas, letting no obstacle get in the way while adapting movements to the environment by vaulting, rolling, running, jumping and climbing whatever comes underfoot.
It doesn't require much equipment other than a good pair of running shoes and a mind that doesn't easily frighten.
Individuals condition body and the mind by learning how to overcome obstacles with speed and efficiency.
Prince George resident Matt McKinnon became interested in the sport after watching movies that featured parkour scenes. For many, the most prominent of those would be the opening scene of the 2006 James Bond film, Casino Royale.
Now McKinnon is hoping to share his skills with others, so every Wednesday, McKinnon and Kevin Sutherland host a parkour night in Prince George.
"I have no problem teaching people, but it's more about establishing a [parkour] community in Prince George," said McKinnon.
The sport isn't only about overcoming physical limitations but also mental barriers as well.
"It goes against human nature to go face first over as obstacle," said McKinnon.
He researched the discipline and practiced the basics in his backyard using YouTube videos as his tutorials.
"Parks are [a] great place to practice because they [offer] nice soft landings. It's a great place to teach people the basics," said McKinnon.
"We've never been hurt. I've had more accidents mountain biking than we have with parkour... When you are doing a move, all your focus has to be on that one move."
McKinnon said the evolution of the mind and the perception of hurdles around you is a fascinating process.
"There is something called parkour vision, that's when you see an obstacle, not as an obstacle, but as a path," said McKinnon.
The popularity of the sport is making it evolve into a mainstream activity, and in Prince George, the situation is no different.
"I'd say four [people] usually come out come out every week, and we've got six new guys that we've met this year," said McKinnon.
To learn about the next parkour gathering, contact Matt McKinnon at 250-640-7654 or through FaceBook by searching for PG Helljumpers.
