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Ultimate Parkour Challenge

(Rated TV-14, Reality TV, Starring Andy Bell, Where to watch: MTV)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 9, age appropriate for kids over 12; suggested age 12.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Underground sport is a mix of danger and excitement.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 12 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The level of dedication needed to master these challenging movements is significant. Clearly, these athletes have spent many hours practicing, and that training has paid off. That said, be sure to remind kids not to try these stunts on their own -- they're dangerous, and shouldn't be attempted casually.
  • Role models:

    The parkour athletes speak of the sport as more than just a physical activity -- it's central part of their lives. Their devotion is impressive.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Many of the featured stunts are very dangerous, and there are several slips and falls. Some of the people just get a little banged up, but others need immediate medical attention; one leaves in an ambulance (but later returns in fine condition).
  • Sex:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Some words are bleeped.
  • Consumerism:

    Several of the participants are identified as members of the World Freerunning and Parkour Federation, an organization that promotes the sport.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Ultimate Parkour Challenge

Parents need to know that this reality competition series -- which showcases the underground sport of parkour -- includes some stunts that are potentially very dangerous (like leaping from rooftops). Sometimes they go awry, and the show makes it clear that risk is involved: There are several graphic shots of injuries resulting from stunts gone bad ... which will hopefully help dissuade viewers from imitating these highly trained athletes at home. The tricks may look easy, but they can be perilous for people who don’t know what they’re doing. There's also some bleeped swearing.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about dangerous sports. Do you think parkour looks like fun, or does it seem too risky? Are some sports fun because they're risky? Do you think some activities are so unsafe that they shouldn't be allowed?
  • Are you familiar with parkour? Have you ever seen some of these stunts in movies or TV shows? Did you know this was an actual sport? Does watching this show make you want to try some of these stunts?

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