Boston Dynamics 'humanoid robot' performs scary gymnastics routine

Our robot overlords may be one step closer.

Or, more precisely, they may be one perfectly executed leap closer after American engineering and robotics design company Boston Dynamics unveiled the incredibly agility of it's latest humanoid.

Atlas, the "world's most dynamic humanoid robot", performs a parkour routine in a video released by Boston Dynamics.

Atlas flawlessly performs rolls, jumps and spins in the short clip, which has been viewed almost 3 million times on YouTube.

"Atlas's advanced control system and state-of-the-art hardware give the robot the power and balance to demonstrate human-level agility," explained the company.

The 1.8-metre tall humanoid weighs 80kg and uses custom motors, valves, and a compact hydraulic power unit to deliver high power to any of its 28 hydraulic joints which facilitate its mobility. 

"Atlas's advanced control system enables highly diverse and agile locomotion, while algorithms reason through complex dynamic interactions involving the whole body and environment to plan movements," Boston Dynamics said.