Tips For Stunt Performers Part 1 (2025)

Something I get asked for is tips on being a stunt performer. These are things I feel all performers should be doing and keeping in mind. This has been somewhat of a mind dump, so I'll probably add to this at some point. So without further ado, I'll just get stuck in:

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• Start with foundations

  • Let's talk Martial Arts. First of all, Martial Arts splits into 3 main categories; fighting, health and performance. For performance, there is an emphasis on holding poses, elongating those movements and maintaining a safe distance from your scene partners while still selling the hit. That said, you still want to train broadly. Boxing and kickboxing are great for learning how to throw convincing punches and kicks, but don’t stop there. Add more strings to your bow by exploring weapons from different disciplines. You don’t need to be an expert in all of them, but having a working understanding of various combat systems means you’ll never be starting from scratch when you’re on a job. Screenfighting classes are invaluable, but I personally feel that real Martial Arts training makes a huge difference. When you’re sparring for real, you’re under pressure, where learning to stay composed under pressure is crucial, not just in the stunts but in life in general. It builds fight IQ, improves your reactions and gives your performance a realism that can’t be faked. Not to mention, it's exceptionally difficult to appropriate movement maturity; if the character you play is an expert and you as the stunt performer are learning the movements from scratch without a Martial Arts background, it really does show. So keep your Martial Arts training sharp, varied but consistent.

  • Strength and conditioning are key parts of your foundation as a stunt performer. This is a physical profession and your body is not only your tool, it’s also part of the visual storytelling. Depending on the types of roles or doubling jobs you’re aiming for, physical aesthetics can make a real difference. Incorporate weight training and general conditioning into your routine to build balanced strength, endurance, and resilience. A strong, well-conditioned body doesn’t just look good on camera; it helps protect you from injury and allows you to perform consistently across long shooting days. Focus on functional strength (explosive power, grip, core stability, mobility) rather than just size or appearance. If your training requires role-specific preparation, such as doubling an athletic superhero, your physique will need to reflect that. If you’re working on historical or creature performances, movement quality and adaptability might matter more. Either way, being in peak physical condition shows commitment and professionalism, which helps you bring authenticity to every role you take on.

  • Learn body control in how to fall, roll, recover and take reactions. Having spatial and body awareness is so important. This is why gymnasts are generally regarded to be the most well rounded in terms of their athleticism across all sports. Be sure not to neglect flexibility and mobility. They’re often overlooked, but essential for injury prevention and longevity in your career.

  • Get your nutrition in check; just as you train your body and skills, supporting it with proper fuel and recovery ensures you can perform consistently, safely and at your best.

  • Make sure that you are prioritising your rest and sleep. A well-rested body performs better, reacts faster and recovers more effectively from both training and stunts. Stunt work is physically intense and mentally demanding — without proper recovery, performance, focus, and safety can all be compromised.

• Get proper and relevant training 

  • Attending a screenfighting course or workshop will be invaluable for you to understand timing, distancing as well as endurance that will generally be required of you on set. So be sure to look up any courses that may be available, but also research into the background and experience of the course leader. It's always advisable to learn from someone who has not only been there, but is current and active in the industry. Techniques, safety standards, and expectations evolve constantly, so learning from professionals who are still working keeps your knowledge relevant and up to date.

  • Screenfighting workshops don’t just help you refine your technical skills, they’re also a great way to network with like-minded performers. You’ll often meet people at different stages in their careers; some just starting out or others already working regularly on productions. This mix creates an environment where there’s always something to learn. Watching how more experienced performers move, communicate and prepare can be incredibly valuable. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek feedback;  most people in the stunts are generous with their knowledge and you’ll often find that the connections you make in training can lead to future opportunities.

  • Workshops also give you the chance to practice professionalism in a semi-set environment: showing up prepared, taking direction well and collaborating safely with partners. Those habits will serve you long after the class ends.

  • If you’re based in the UK and training to join the British Stunt Register (BSR), your training will be broad and multidisciplinary. Whilst your schedule will be spread across many areas, it’s essential to stay on top of core skills such as combat. 

• Creating a showreel

  • This industry is built on collaboration, so if you can find people to train with, it’s worth teaming up to film your own material, especially while you’re building experience. You can also include clips from productions you’ve worked on, but don’t wait for paid jobs to start creating. Some of the best reels come from well-planned training shoots where you can control lighting, framing and camera angles to really showcase your skills.

  • When filming, make sure your clips are clean and focused primarily on you. The goal is to highlight your range and abilities, not to make a flashy movie trailer. Use clear, well-lit environments and keep camera movement simple so coordinators can easily see your technique, timing and control.

  • It’s also important to show variety; hand-to-hand, weapons work, reactions, falls, flips, driving, wire work, whatever fits your skill set. Just make sure every clip demonstrates good form, safety and intention. One impressive, polished move is better than ten messy ones.

  • Keep your reel short and impactful, ideally 1–2 minutes and be sure to include your contact information at the end. Always keep it up to date as you gain experience or add new skills.

  • Remember: your stunt reel is often your first impression to those who don't yet know you. It should show not only what you can do, but also how safely, professionally and creatively you do it.

  • This is why it is important to be able to shoot and edit; learning skills behind the camera will absolutely improve your skills as a performer in front of it.

• Networking and making a good impression

  • I spoke about this in another article on tips for actors, so I won't go too much into this, however this industry thrives on reputation and relationships, so professionalism is everything. Being punctual, respectful, humble and easy to work with goes a long way. Always show gratitude, both during and after a shoot, whether that’s thanking the coordinator, your stunt team or other departments who helped make things run smoothly. A simple 'thank you' means a lot. When sharing behind-the-scenes moments or wrap posts on social media, take the opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the people you worked with. It not only shows respect, but helps build a positive, collaborative reputation that people will remember the next time they’re hiring. Just remember to avoid posting spoilers, unreleased material or unsafe footage; always check what’s been cleared for public sharing before you post.

• Understand the business side

  • Research into unions as well as latest ongoings (for instance, the fact that unions may no longer offer insurance for performers), understand contracts, day rates and how residuals or credits work. 

  • Make sure your admin is sharp and on point; if someone is asking for your stunt CV, showreel or if you're having to send an invoice, make sure you're in a position to send it off at a moment's notice. Keeping your documents organised and up to date not only saves time but also shows you’re reliable, prepared, and professional; all qualities that make you stand out in a competitive industry.

• Building a positive social media presence

  • Having a social media presence can be a powerful way to stay visible, connect with others and showcase your growth. Posting clips of your training, behind-the-scenes practice or skill development helps others see your work ethic, consistency and professionalism. It’s not about showing off, it’s about sharing your journey and demonstrating your commitment to the craft.

  • Engage with other stunt performers, coordinators and film professionals in a positive and supportive way. Commenting on others’ work, celebrating their achievements and sharing useful insights builds genuine relationships and strengthens your network. The stunt community is relatively small and your online interactions can reflect your attitude just as much as your on-set behavior.

  • Always keep things professional; again, avoid posting unsafe material, spoilers or anything that could breach confidentiality agreements. Treat your social platforms as an extension of your professional image; a space to inspire, connect and collaborate with others who share your passion for the industry.