Imagine being able to run up walls, leap over obstacles, and navigate urban environments with the grace and agility of a superhero.

Welcome to the world of parkour, a discipline that transforms ordinary settings into a playground for the extraordinary.

One of the fundamental movements in parkour is the "tic tac," a technique that can help you scale heights and overcome barriers with ease.

Whether you're a seasoned traceur (parkour practitioner) or just starting, understanding the tic tac can elevate your skills to new heights.

The tic tac, also known as the wall step or wall run, is a technique where the practitioner uses a wall or vertical surface to gain height or change direction.

By pushing off the wall with one foot, the traceur can propel themselves upward or sideways, depending on the situation.

This move is essential for navigating complex urban environments and is often used in combination with other parkour techniques like vaults and jumps.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Approach: Start by running towards the wall at a controlled speed. The approach should be at a slight angle, around 45 degrees, to allow for a smooth transition.

Foot Placement: As you reach the wall, place your lead foot on the vertical surface. Aim to plant your foot firmly, around hip height or higher if possible. Your toes should point slightly upward to grip the wall better.

Push Off: Use the planted foot to push off the wall. This action should be explosive, using the power in your legs to propel you upwards or sideways.

Arm Movement: Your arms play a crucial role in maintaining balance and generating additional lift. Swing your arms upward as you push off the wall to help drive your body in the desired direction.

Landing: Aim to land softly, either on another surface or preparing for your next move. Bend your knees slightly to absorb the impact and maintain your flow.

Practice on Different Surfaces: Start with walls that have a bit of texture to help with grip, then progress to smoother surfaces as you gain confidence.

Focus on Timing: The key to a successful tic tac is timing. Practice coordinating your foot placement and push-off with your arm swing.

Stay Relaxed: Tension can hinder your performance. Stay relaxed and fluid in your movements for better control.

The tic tac is often used in conjunction with other movements to create fluid sequences. Here are a few combinations:

Tic Tac to Cat Leap: After pushing off the wall, aim for a nearby ledge or surface where you can perform a cat leap. This combination is great for overcoming high obstacles.

Tic Tac to Precision Jump: Use the tic tac to gain height, then immediately transition into a precision jump to land accurately on a small target.

Tic Tac to Vault: Incorporate a vault after your tic tac to navigate complex environments seamlessly.

Incorrect Foot Placement: Placing your foot too low or at the wrong angle can reduce your upward momentum. Aim for hip height or higher for optimal push-off.

Poor Timing: If your timing is off, you won't generate enough lift. Practice synchronizing your foot placement with your arm swing.

Lack of Follow-Through: Not fully committing to the push-off can result in a weak tic tac. Focus on driving through with your legs and using your arms to aid the movement.

Mastering the tic tac is crucial for several reasons:

Versatility: It allows you to navigate a variety of obstacles and environments, making it one of the most versatile moves in parkour.

Safety: Proper execution of the tic tac can prevent injuries by ensuring smooth transitions and controlled landings.

Flow: Incorporating the tic tac into your runs enhances your overall flow, making your movements look and feel more fluid.

To improve your tic tac, consider incorporating these drills into your training routine:

Wall Runs: Practice running up and down walls to build strength and confidence in your foot placement.

Plyometric Exercises: Incorporate exercises like box jumps and single-leg hops to build explosive power in your legs.

Balance Drills: Work on balance exercises to improve your stability and control during the tic tac.

The tic tac is a foundational move in parkour that unlocks a world of possibilities for traceurs.

By mastering this technique, you can enhance your ability to navigate urban landscapes with agility and confidence.

Remember to focus on your approach, timing, and follow-through to perfect your tic tac. With practice, you'll find that this move becomes an integral part of your parkour repertoire, enabling you to tackle new challenges and elevate your performance.