Vaulting, diving, flipping and spinning are all terms used in the art of free-running, an innovative physical and mental discipline which has recently landed in Cardiff.
A new junior free-running club has been launched by Sport.Cardiff in partnership with the Council’s Leisure Services, as part of the 5×60 school sports development programme and has already been a huge success, attracting over 30 children and young people to the first sessions held at Llanishen Leisure Centre.
The personal interest of experienced free-runners Craig Robinson, a lifeguard at the centre and Rhydian Thomas, a full-time gymnastics coach lead them to want to offer the movement to other young people and establish a community free-running club.
As part of the development of the project Craig and Rhydian completed qualifications including Level 2 free-running, Level 2 gymnastics and first aid and are now regulated coaches.
Free-running participants train with the aim of developing their mind and body in order to overcome or interact with obstacles found in both urban and natural environments in the most intelligent and physically challenging manner.
The sporting activity requires consistent and disciplined training in functional strength, conditioning and expansion of mental and physical capabilities including spatial awareness and looking beyond the traditional use of everyday objects.
Skills developed during free-running sessions include running, balance, vaulting, rolling, climbing and jumping and free-runners have scope to express their own creativity using many different combinations of movements in relation to the space and obstacles they are faced with.
Training also focuses on safety and personal responsibility.
The 5×60 initiative is a Welsh Government funded programme available to schools across Cardiff which encourages children to take part in 60 minutes of physical activity five times a week.
It comprises a variety of different activities from which the children choose what they want to participate in. Activities include competitive, team and individual sports as well recreational activities such as climbing, dance and swimming.
The new club will give children and young people from secondary schools around the city the opportunity to try out this exciting activity which they would not usually have access to.
It is an opportunity to get a feel for free-running and a chance for participants to practice the movement on a regular basis.
Llanishen Leisure Centre Manager, Steve Moates said: “Craig approached me about 18 months ago with the idea of providing free running sessions to the local community. Since then he and Rhydian have passed all their qualifications some of which they have completed along with the some of the countries top free runners.
“Their dedication and enthusiasm has been astounding and they should be proud to be running one of Cardiff’s only free running session.
“The initial sessions have exceeded all expectations with over 70 children attending in the first two weeks.
“Free Running is a unique sport which has the ability to engage all children, including those who do not normally participate in sport. I am proud to be involved with such a success story.
Free-running sessions are held at Llanishen Leisure Centre every Sunday at 9.30am to 10.30am for 8-11 years and 10.30am to 11.30am for 12 to 15 years.
For more information please contact Llanishen Leisure centre on 029 20762411.
