The world of cinema is filled with breathtaking action sequences, jaw-dropping stunts, and adrenaline-pumping moments that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Behind these heart-racing moments are the fearless individuals known as stunt performers or stuntmen/stuntwomen. If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a part of this thrilling world and making a career out of performing daring feats on screen, you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps to becoming a stuntman or stuntwoman, from developing essential skills to finding your place in the industry.
Salary
Starting salaries for junior stunt performers may be around £12,000 a year. The average UK salary is £58,240.
Qualifications
In order to become a stunt performer in the UK, you must be on the Joint Industry Stunt Committee (JISC) register of stunt/action co-ordinaries and performers. To gain JISC accreditation, you must have proven skill levels and recognised qualifications in at least six sporting categories listed by JISC. There are 11 categories in total, which are separated into 5 different groups. Each group relays to a specific area of skills, e.g., fighting, falling and water ability. Once you are accepted on the JISC register, you must work for at least three years as a probationary member, working only under the supervision of a full member of the register.
Extracurricular Activities to support Stunt Career
Here are some extracurricular activities that can support your pursuit of a stunt career:
Martial Arts: Training in martial arts disciplines like karate, taekwondo, judo, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can improve your physical fitness, flexibility, and combat skills, all of which are valuable for stunt work. Martial arts can also help you develop discipline and control.
Gymnastics: Joining a gymnastics club or taking gymnastics classes can enhance your agility, balance, and coordination. These skills are crucial for performing acrobatic stunts and controlled falls.
Parkour: Parkour is a discipline that focuses on efficient movement through obstacle courses and urban environments. It can help you develop exceptional agility, speed, and creativity in navigating challenging terrain, which is valuable in stunt work.
Trampoline: Trampoline training can improve your aerial awareness and jumping ability, which are essential for performing high falls, flips, and other aerial stunts.
Acting and Theater: Participating in acting classes or community theater productions can help you develop your acting skills, which are often required for stunt performers who need to portray characters convincingly.
First Aid and CPR Certification: Obtaining certification in first aid and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is crucial for any stunt performer. It ensures you can provide immediate assistance in case of injury on set.
Here are some further steps you can take to become a stunt performer:
Step 1: Assess Your Physical Fitness and Skills
Before diving into the world of stunts, it’s crucial to evaluate your physical fitness and skill set. Stunt work demands peak physical condition, so focus on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility. Engaging in activities like martial arts, gymnastics, parkour, or any other relevant discipline can provide a firm foundation for your stunt career.
Step 2: Hone Your Acting Skills
Stunt performers are not just action figures; they often need to embody characters convincing. Acting classes or workshops can help you become more versatile and expressive, making you a valuable asset on set.
Step 3: Gain Experience in the Entertainment Industry
Familiarize yourself with the dynamics of film and television production by working as an extra, stand-in, or body double. This hands-on experience will help you understand set protocols, build connections, and get a taste of life in the industry.
Step 4: Master Stunt Safety
Safety is paramount in the stunt industry. Become well-versed in safety procedures and protocols, including rigging, fire safety, and high falls. Attend safety training courses and workshops to ensure you can handle any stunt with precision and precaution.
Step 5 Assemble a Stunt Reel
Create a compelling stunt reel that showcases your skills and versatility. Include clips of your best performances, demonstrating your ability to handle a wide range of stunts and actions.
Step 6: Be Persistent
Breaking into the stunt industry can be competitive, and rejection is part of the journey. Stay persistent, keep refining your skills, and never give up on your dream of becoming a successful stunt performer.
Becoming a stuntman or stuntwoman is a thrilling and rewarding career choice, but it requires dedication, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to safety. With the right to training, skills, and perseverance, you can turn your passion for action into a fulfilling and exhilarating profession. So, get ready to take the leap–both figuratively and literally–and embark on your journey toward becoming a stunt performer. Your path to Hollywood’s heart-stopping moments awaits!
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