Introduction:

Parkour is an exciting and challenging sport that focuses on efficiently overcoming obstacles using fluid, smooth movements. One essential skill in parkour is the vault, which helps practitioners quickly scale or pass barriers in their path. In this article, we will discuss three different types of parkour vaults, their purpose, and how to execute them properly.

1. The Speed Vault

Purpose: The speed vault is designed for maintaining momentum when facing waist-high obstacles like railings or walls. This vault technique is perfect for covering large distances swiftly without losing speed.

How to perform a Speed Vault:

– Approach the obstacle at a running pace.

– Lean and tilt your body sideways, with your lead hand ready to touch the obstacle.

– Plant your lead hand on the obstacle while bending your lead leg slightly.

– Keep your trailing leg straight and swing it up towards the sky to create momentum.

– Let your body follow through the movement in a single fluid motion.

– Land softly on your trailing foot, continue running in the same direction.

2. The Kong Vault

Purpose: The Kong vault allows you to dive over an obstacle with both hands touching it simultaneously, resembling a gorilla’s movement. This vault technique comes in handy when trying to clear long or wide barriers.

How to perform a Kong Vault:

– Approach the obstacle at a moderate pace.

– Begin a dive towards the obstacle by raising both arms above your head.

– Plant both hands on the top of the obstacle and push off.

– Tuck your knees close to your chest as you pass over the barrier.

– Extend your arms, pushing yourself away from the obstacle and aim for a proper landing on your feet.

3. The Lazy Vault

Purpose: The lazy vault is useful when conserving energy or bypassing less challenging obstacles. As its name implies, this technique requires minimal effort while retaining efficiency.

How to perform a Lazy Vault:

– Approach the obstacle at a moderate pace, from a slight diagonal angle.

– Reach out with your lead hand and grasp the obstacle.

– Swing your lead leg up and over the barrier while pulling yourself forward with your arm.

– Release your grip, allowing your body to follow through and land on the ground.

– Keep running in the same direction upon landing.

Conclusion:

Mastering these three parkour vaults will elevate your skills and allow you to navigate obstacles proficiently. Always remember to practice in a safe environment, preferably under the guidance of experienced parkour practitioners. By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an adept traceur, ready to face any urban landscape fearlessly.