Palestinian youths practise parkour

Sports and leisurely physical activities are usually a privilege in a war-torn country. It takes heart to defy the depression that accompanies war and violence. Some Palestinian youths, however, refuse to be drawn into the overwhelming negativity surrounding them. Aged between 12 and 23 years old, they have found a new sport that adds excitement to their lives. Training in cemetaries, and in former Israeli settlements, they vow to put the violence behind them and celebrate the human spirit.
 
Parkour, or "the art of moving", involves moving from one point to another as efficiently and quickly as possible while overcoming obstacles using mainly the capabilities of the human physique. Developed in France, Parkour is fast becoming a popular new-age sport.

Click on to see the incredible images from these training sessions

Image: Palestinian youths practice their parkour skills in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip September 12, 2012.