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Gymkhana

Car culture term

Gymkhana
Photo: Gizmokat / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

What is Gymkhana?

A driving discipline where drivers navigate a tight course with specific maneuvers (donuts, slides, reverses). Made famous by Ken Block.

Gymkhana is a driving discipline where drivers navigate a tight course while performing specific maneuvers like donuts, controlled slides, reverse parking, and various other car-control challenges. The format emphasizes technical car control and showmanship rather than just outright speed. The sport originated in motorcycle riding and was adapted to cars in the 1990s.

Modern gymkhana grew significantly with Ken Block Gymkhana video series (starting 2008), which combined gymkhana driving with cinematic production. The videos featured Block driving Subaru and Ford rally-prepared cars through elaborate courses involving stunt elements (jumping over obstacles, drifting around helicopters, performing donuts on rooftops). The series brought gymkhana to mainstream audiences worldwide.

Competitive gymkhana exists in various forms. The American GymkhanaGRID series (created by Block) and the Japanese D1 Gymkhana series have organized formal competition. Modern gymkhana courses include slalom sections, donut requirements, reverse maneuvers, and timed sections. The cars used range from rally-prepared all-wheel drive vehicles to rear-drive cars suited to drift-style maneuvers.

Related terms

AutocrossDriftTime attack

Frequently asked questions

Who is Ken Block?
Ken Block (1967-2023) was an American rally driver and stunt driver, co-founder of DC Shoes, and founder of Hoonigan. The Gymkhana video series (starting 2008) made him one of the most recognized drivers in the world. Block died in a snowmobile accident in January 2023; his legacy continues through Hoonigan and his influence on global gymkhana and drift culture.
Are gymkhana stunts real?
Mostly yes. The Gymkhana videos use trained drivers, prepared cars, closed courses, and significant safety precautions, but the driving stunts are real. Some elements (specific camera angles, helicopter coordination) require multiple takes and complex production planning, but the actual car control is performed by the driver.
What cars are best for gymkhana?
Rally-prepared all-wheel drive cars (Subaru WRX STI, Ford Fiesta R5, Lancia Delta Integrale) for the Ken Block-style cinematic gymkhana. Rear-drive cars (BMW E36, Nissan 240SX, Toyota AE86) for drift-style gymkhana. The choice depends on the maneuvers emphasized.
Is gymkhana the same as autocross?
Related but different. Autocross runs single timed laps on a cone course. Gymkhana involves specific maneuvers like donuts, reverses, and intentional slides combined with the timing element. Autocross is more about precise driving; gymkhana is more about technical car control and showmanship.
Can I learn gymkhana?
Yes. Gymkhana clubs exist in many regions and offer instruction. Some rally schools include gymkhana elements in their curriculum. Online tutorials and event experience help develop the skills. Competitive gymkhana takes years of practice to reach high levels; recreational gymkhana is approachable for any driver willing to learn.
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