Backward Momentum/ja

Backward Momentum (abbr. bwmm) is a technique that allows the player to maximize the potential of a given momentum.

A basic strat optimization principle is to maximize the player's forward speed at the end of the provided momentum. This can be achieved by walking off the back of the momentum, followed by jumping forward.


 * On some setups, repeated executions of this technique (by alternating back and forth) may be needed to fully maximize the momentum's potential.


 * It's possible to calculate an upper bound for the jump distance, by maximizing the initial speed such that the player doesn't overjump the momentum.

Here is a diagram showing the essential steps involved in a backward momentum strat:



When a backward momentum strat involves turning back and forth, it is called Loop Momentum.

For real time parkour, consistency is key. Therefore, no-turn strats are preferred, though experienced players have started using loop momentum.

Here is a list of optimal backward momentum strats [TAS]:

https://youtu.be/ZCXSiKh9Gao

Considerations
One thing to consider is whether to "delay" the final jump or not (meaning running 1 tick off the edge, instead of jumping immediately)

Delaying a jump conserves less speed, but allows the player to jump with a small headstart.


 * On short momentums (less than 0.4375bm), delaying the jump is always better (as shown in the video above).
 * On longer momentums, the choice depends on the height of the jump.

Momentum Threshold is also something to consider when elaborating a strat: it can either be helpful or detrimental, depending on how the velocity is affected.

Common 1bm Strats
Backward momentum has originally been created to solve the 1bm 4.375b jump (first with 3bc momentum, then with no ceiling).

This has sparked a search for optimal 1bm strats: The most well-known 1bm strats were force momentum and c4.5 timing, but as it turns out their efficiencies really pale in comparison to bwmm strats (though they are still quite useful for most jumps, especially considering they are easier to setup and perform).

Below is a list of common bwmm strats for 1bm:


 * 3bc 1bm strat
 * Rex bwmm
 * Cyn bwmm
 * 1bm 5-1 strat

For other momentums and strats, see this compilation by Squidyerser.