(SPOT.ph) Are you tired of the same old gym routine? Looking for a way to inject some excitement and challenge into your workouts? Parkour and jungle gyms in Metro Manila offer a thrilling alternative to traditional fitness regimes. These facilities combine the rigor of a workout with the thrill of an adventure sport, promising not just a healthier body but also that sense of accomplishment, especially when you've reached the end of the obstacle course.
What is parkour?
Parkour is a training discipline that developed from military obstacle course training. Practitioners, known as traceurs, aim to get from one point to another in a complex environment, without assistive equipment, and in the fastest and most efficient way possible. Parkour includes running, climbing, swinging, vaulting, jumping, plyometrics, rolling, and quadrupedal movement.
Parkour Gyms in Metro Manila for Beginners and Pros
Pretty Huge
2/F SM Aura Premier, C5 corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City
www.prettyhuge.com.ph
Rates start at P600 (one-day full access for non-members)
Open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Described as the largest indoor obstacle course facility in Asia, Pretty Huge features an array of up to 100 difficult challenges. It recently rebranded itself as "a multi-sports facility providing a venue to engage in sports, fitness, and wellness activities," dropping "Obstacle" in its name. Just the same, it still boasts its diverse layout where individuals of all ages can engage in activities like running, jumping, hanging, and leaping—from monkey bars to high walls, swings, and rings. Opening its doors in February 2019, Pretty Huge Obstacles quickly became the designated cross-training venue for local athletes, particularly the Philippine OCR team.
The day-pass rate of P600 is already inclusive of multi-sports and facility access, unlimited group classes, and use of the members' lounge. Member rate is P2,199/month (limited promo).
Fitness Army
47 Visayas Avenue, Quezon City
www.facebook.com/fitnessarmyphilippines
Open 24/7
Fitness Army, an international gym franchise co-founded and co-owned by fitness trainer Rendon Labrador, inaugurated its Bonifacio Global City branch in December 2018. But it now boasts its flagship branch in Quezon City, which has plenty of sports amenities such as a basketball court, a volleyball court, outdoor and indoor wall climbing facilities, and an expanded array of obstacle sets; as well as physiotherapy services.
Muscle Up Parkour Gym and Urban Training Ground
143 Maginhawa Street, Sikatuna Village, Quezon City
www.facebook.com/MuscleUpPH
Rates start at P500 (one-hour parkour class for non-members)
Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Established in 2017, Muscle Up Parkour Gym stands out as an alternative fitness venue that injects enjoyment into every workout—though perhaps less so when grappling with post-session soreness. Its course incorporates agility ladders, high walls for mounting and dismounting, and ropes to challenge core strength. In addition to parkour instruction, the gym provides circuit training, boxing, kali, and Muay Thai classes.
The annual membership fee is P1,500, which is inclusive of one boxing session, one parkour session, one circuit session, and one gym use session. If you wish to have more training, the rate for six sessions is P2,500, while the price for 12 sessions is P4,000. Personal training is P750 for one one-on-one, and P5,800 for a monthly program of eight sessions with a coach.
Sparta Philippines
126 Pioneer Street, Mandaluyong
sparta.ph
Rates start at P2,000 for 10 sessions (valid for 30 days)
Available classes start at 6 a.m. with the last class at 10 p.m. on weekdays, then 11:30 a.m. for the first class and 8:30 p.m. for the last class on weekends
Not to be confused with the city-state that was the enemy of Athens nor the global obstacle race phenomenon, SPARTA is short for Sports and Recreational Training Arena. Technically (and strictly), SPARTA is not a parkour gym, but it does offer calisthenics, which is incredibly useful if you want to do parkour. Calisthenics is a type of training using body weight as resistance and includes strengthening exercises like pull-ups, push-ups, and muscle-ups on bars. Beginners are welcome even for group classes, especially since drills are done through progression.
You can choose between Kalos exercises, which focus on cardio, conditioning, weight loss, functional movements, and core training; and Sthenos exercises, which prioritize muscle building and strengthening. These follow calisthenics' concept, which traces its origins from the Greek works "kalos" (beauty) and "sthenos" (strength).
The starting rate for a month is P2,000, which includes 10 sessions. If you wish to sign up for more training, Kalos unlimited is P2,500, Sthenos unlimited is P3,200, and Sthenos+Kalos unlimited is P4,500. These are all valid for 30 days. Private coaching is P1,500 per session.
Obstacle Central
Unit Anchor-03 The Portal, Greenfield District, Mandaluyong
www.obstaclecentral.com
Rates start at P600 (one-day full access for non-members)
Open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Originally located in Barangay Sikatuna, Quezon City, Obstacle Central just had its grand opening of its Mandaluyong branch in March 2024. It offers group classes for strength and conditioning as well as obstacle training. Coaches are certified and trained through the World OCR. One-month membership is P3,200.
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Why choose parkour for fitness?
Parkour is a full-body workout.
It engages all muscle groups, ensuring a balanced workout.
Parkour improves physical and mental agility.
Navigating obstacles not only enhances physical dexterity but also sharpens the mind.
It builds strength and endurance.
Regular practice increases stamina and muscular strength.
It enhances coordination.
The dynamic movements improve body coordination and balance.
It promotes weight loss as well as body conditioning and strengthening.
Parkour is an intense physical activity that burns calories and aids in weight management.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parkour
Is parkour suitable for beginners?
Yes, parkour is suitable for individuals of all fitness levels. Beginners can start with basic movements and gradually progress to more complex techniques.
What should I wear for parkour training?
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes with good grip.
Are parkour gyms safe?
Yes, parkour gyms are designed with safety in mind. Instructors are usually well-trained to guide practitioners in safely navigating obstacles.
Can parkour help in weight loss?
Absolutely. Parkour is a high-intensity physical activity that can help burn calories and promote weight loss.
How often should I practice parkour?
This depends on your fitness goals and schedule. However, 2-3 times a week is a good starting point to see progress.