Is Parkour Really Part of Gymnastics? Will it go to the Olympics?

Episode Description In this episode of The Game of Gymnastics, Winston sits down with Jakub, the Parkour Sport Manager at World Gymnastics (formerly FIG), to unpack one of the most debated topics in modern gymnastics: why parkour now sits under the gymnastics umbrella — and where it’s heading next. They discuss how parkour became part of World Gymnastics, whether it was truly a “takeover,” and the challenges of integrating a free, expressive movement culture into a structured competitive system. Jakub explains how competitive parkour works — from speed to freestyle — how the Code of Points is evolving, and what’s being done to balance structure with creativity. The conversation also dives into the Olympic question: Is Brisbane 2032 realistic? What’s standing in the way? And would another gymnastics discipline have to be removed for parkour to enter? This is an open, honest discussion about identity, governance, politics, and the future of urban sport within the Olympic system. Key Takeaways • Why parkour was incorporated into World Gymnastics • Speed vs Freestyle competition formats • How parkour judging works (and why it’s changing) • The divide between competitive and non-competitive parkour • Political challenges of Olympic inclusion • Could parkour be in Brisbane 2032? • How national federations are adapting worldwide Best Moments “It’s not a takeover — it’s another opportunity.” “If you add parkour, you have to take something else out.” “We want to grow inside the organisation but still keep our identity.” “It’s a win-win — World Gymnastics needs parkour, and parkour needs World Gymnastics.” Jakub's Social Links https://www.instagram.com/world_outside_my_window?utm_source=qr&igsh=MXV6b3g4NXFxMjJqMA%3D%3D My Social Links ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@winstonpowell5 The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding The Game (eBook)https://payhip.com/b/f6RjV Host Bio  As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.