As a rule, only the very unhappy, the very stupid or the very brave throw themselves off roofs. Steve Smuts, founder of the Abu Dhabi Parkour group, falls into the last category. The sport is about navigating your way through an urban environment using the most direct, often unconventional, route. This can mean leaping through a window rather than taking the stairs, or vaulting from a roof to a wall to exit a house. It’s free, rebellious and those who practise it say it gives them a new perspective on their surroundings. We caught up with Steve to hear more.
Can you explain a little about what parkour is?
Parkour is the art of movement. It’s the practice of moving from point A to point B in the fastest way possible using only one’s body. For many people, it helps them to become more confident in life, and helps them with overcoming mental obstacles. It also helps them to become very healthy individuals.
What was your inspiration for setting up Abu Dhabi Parkour?
I started doing parkour when I watched a documentary on the BBC called Jump London. It was about parkour and free running, and I thought it was spectacular! I decided I wanted to do it and nothing would get in my way. I realised very quickly that there were no others practising here in Abu Dhabi, so I taught myself and then later set up a website to let others know I was there and to teach others the basic movements.
How quickly did it catch on?
Well, there are about 200 traceurs [people who practise parkour] in the UAE, but only about 30 dedicated guys practise weekly. We hold demonstrations, events and workshops for would-be traceurs. New practitioners should seek out experienced people to help them, so they don’t pick up any bad habits.
You must have had some pretty nasty injuries…
There are often small injuries sustained while practising, but many of them are just stepping stones to becoming better traceurs. We haven’t had any big injuries because safety is a big issue while we practise. You don’t need to jump a rooftop gap to practise parkour.
You also train people to do indoor skydiving here in the capital – would you say you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie?
I wouldn’t say I’m much of an adrenaline junkie. I just enjoy doing different things and I could never work behind a desk! The most exhilarating thing about parkour is when, after practising for weeks or months to get to a certain level, one day you land a gap, or manage a vault and walk away unhurt. There’s a huge confidence boost in overcoming obstacles and getting better at parkour. It takes time, but it’s really worth it.
What qualities make people good at parkour?
There is a certain amount of fitness required. However you don’t need to be strong or flexible (I can’t touch my toes), or even brave. With the right practise and the right teacher, becoming agile, strong and flexible comes naturally. Then what seems like a big jump no longer feels like one, and when bravery would have been needed before, your experience just takes over.
If a beginner wants to join your group, how should they go about it?
All they need to do is get in contact with me (Steve Smuts) on Facebook or visit our website, www.uaeparkour.com. No experience is necessary, and training is held weekly at the Corniche. The sessions are free and are open to everyone – just make sure you wear comfortable, well-fitting running shoes (Converse trainers or flat-soled shoes aren’t suitable) and comfortable clothing.
