A group of women in Iran's capital has discovered parkour, the fast-moving sport that blends acrobatics and gymnastics, and made it their outlet for evading social constraints and coping with stress. (AFP)
Iranian Women Soar With Parkour

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Mahsa Khakbazan hangs upside-down during a parkour training session at a sports hall in northern Tehran.

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A parkour training session.

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Arefeh Shah-Ali (left) and Yasaman Keshavarzi working out.

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Homa Sharifi builds her arm and hand strength.

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Iranian women test their vertical leap in Tehran's Tavalod Park.

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Balance and coordination are key elements of parkour.

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Parkour's origins lie in military training and obstacle courses.

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Iranian women during a break from parkour practice in Tehran's Tavalod Park.

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Maryam Rad, a parkour trainer, jumps during a session at a sports hall in northern Tehran.