Parkour group aims to support mental and physical wellbeing of Bedford’s young people

An established group of parkour instructors has become a Community Interest Company to build the confidence, life skills and mental health of young people and adults in the Borough.

Spiral Freerun was set up in 2012 and changed its structure this year to become a CIC, enabling them to qualify for grants and further build their supportive and inclusive community.

Parkour or free running is the use of your body to overcome obstacles and move through the urban environment . You may have seen some of their students practising around the park and town centre. It’s often ‘heart-in-your-mouth’ stuff to watch, but by building up strength, confidence and self-belief, the manoeuvres are safe.

“Parkour is a way of expressing yourself through movement,” said CEO Luke Brown.

“The sport gives people so many life skills and we teach children and adults. We have a free trial for all our classes, so everyone’s welcome to come along to have a go and see if they like it.”

As well as partnering with Bedford Borough Council to run free events for school children, Spiral Freerun works with Fun 4 Young People (F4YP) to provide outreach to 6 – 14-year-olds.

On 15 December, Spiral Freerun and F4YP are collaborating on a fundraising night to support the F4YP charity crowdfunder.

F4YP aims to inspire young people to make positive contributions to society in spite of any barriers that they may face. They are aiming to raise £25,000 through events and donations.
The three-hour fundraiser at Trinity Arts Centre will be an open gym style event where participants can practice their tricks & skills freely, without limitation.
“Coaches will be available on the night to help out,” said Luke of Spiral Freerun, “Our kids night will be a great place to train, make new friends and network with other members of our growing Parkour community.”

You can find out more information about the event here.

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