Aaron’s Best Parkour Movies and Books List
Updated: Sep 19
In Israel, Yom Kippur brings quiet streets and closed businesses. I use that quiet time to watch films or read.
Since 2020, I have kept this list of parkour films and books I have personally watched or read. It includes titles for training, parkour history, and a quiet day indoors.
I've seen or read all of them myself, so if they make it to this list, it's a personal recommendation from me, you may call it my Parkour Books and Parkour Movies List :)
This list is divided into movies and books, some are free and some are paid. But they are all worth your time and money!
To make it easier for you, you can go directly to the list of movies, or, go directly to the list of books
I update this list annually. If you think a title belongs here, suggest it in the comments.
Last updated: September 2026.
Movies
recommended watch
In August 2021, eight women came together to train and film parkour in Denver, CO. It was the first time a group of elite women had the chance to work together on a project of that scale. What they created was a representation of who they are, how they see the city, and the passion they share for movement.
NEW CAPSTONE VERKY
best to watch before a session
After over two years in the making, Capstone finally presents their first solo project - featuring the one and only Travis Verkaik. This one is a non-stop show of peak athleticism and commitment. Don’t watch it when you're tired because it will make you go jump anyway
an old-school classic
This 26-minute Russian parkour film has pure movement pleasure and minimal dialogue. which is good because I don't understand Russian.
The parkour in the video is powerful and strong, filmed in several stunning locations with very high-quality cinematography for its time. Highly recommended!
the modern parkour philosophy take
A short film that is simply a must-watch in my opinion! In 37 minutes, the film takes us on a journey inside the minds of some of the most renowned tracers in the world. The film illustrates very well the depth of the parkour world; you can see this not only in the movement styles of the tracers but also in their differing opinions on training, parkour, and life in general.
The film beautifully showcases how deep and diverse our world is.
an old-school classic
This is the film that greatly influenced the entry of famous tracers from Britain into the world of parkour, and it is almost 20 years old! The film, released in 2003, showcases the pioneers of parkour from France on their journey through various locations in London, and it is still considered one of the most important films in the field of parkour!
The film has a sequel. Jump Britain
best to watch before a session
this one has got to be one of the best movies that have come out from the unfortunately closed Motus Projects; At the top of their game, The Motus Projects athletes push themselves through their physical and mental limits in this honest and uncompromising representation of the ever-evolving sport of Parkour.
Sole Destroyer combines bold, action-packed sequences with the raw and telling moments of the battles behind the movements. Flitting from dynamic cinematography to the youthful rowdiness that Motus is so renowned for, the film is undoubtedly the brands greatest achievement so far.
the modern parkour philosophy take
A one-hour documentary film from the USA that tells the story of five tracers and their training over nine months. The film explores their training decisions, motivations, and emotions, and it is really nice for anyone who wants to understand the thought process of tracers during training. There are some parts in the film that are a bit too cheesy for my taste, but it is definitely worth watching.
Books:
Breaking the Jump - Julie Angel
Parkour History
One of the most important books released regarding parkour, and for one reason only. It does not focus on parkour itself but rather on the people who started it.
If you want to understand the personality and lives of the individuals who initiated parkour, such as David Belle, Sébastien Foucan, and other key figures, this book is a must-read! It is incredible in its honesty and opens your eyes to many aspects related to the development of parkour over the years.
Parkour Strength Training: Overcome Obstacles for Fun and Fitness - Ryan Ford
best for coaches
This book by Ryan Ford from the USA is an excellent resource for both practitioners and coaches. It includes a wealth of exercises specifically designed to improve strength for parkour.
The book is organized by movement pattern and progression, and the explanations are very straightforward. The exercises are bodyweight exercises that can be performed anywhere, and the images are clear enough that even those who do not understand English can benefit from the book.
Overcoming Gravity - Steven Low
broader training methodology
If you want to improve your strength in gymnastic and bodyweight exercises like the front planche and handstands, this book is for you!
The book offers step-by-step programs for all the basic elements of gymnastics and bodyweight training, accompanied by cute illustrations that explain the principles of progression.
The approach in the book is based on gradual and systematic programs where the progression is linear, and the plans work excellently within this framework. Additionally, there are several good chapters on the overall training program, recovery, and other important topics.
The book is text-heavy and best suited to readers comfortable with English.
The Parkour Roadmap - Max Henry
best for beginners
Written by Max Henry, a very experienced tracer and coach.
At first glance, this book may seem lacking in images and illustrations, but that's not the reality! The book contains a lot of links to excellent YouTube videos, and if you purchase the electronic version of the book, it's very easy to click on the links and watch real videos that explain well what is written and contribute to the parkour atmosphere of the book.
Definitely a recommended book!
That’s all for now!
Which film or book should be considered for the next annual update?
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