Use of martial arts training for stuntmen

For people new to the martial arts, the advantages of martial arts training might always not be too obvious. Some may think it’s a great workout, while others may learn Rapid Assault tactics largely for self-defense. However, in reality, the benefits of martial arts training span a spectrum of physical, mental, and social attributes. Learning martial arts is pretty common for stuntmen and women, as well as actors interested in action movies. In fact, the entertainment industry is among the biggest domains where martial artists are making their mark.

Martial arts in movies

No matter whether one is working as a consultant on set for other actors or having a stunt role of their own, the skills one learns as a martial artist naturally translate to the big screen. Martial arts can provide the most gruesome, but valuable training regimen for any stuntman. Unlike sports like football where athletes prepare for blindside hits, martial arts makes you people hits and falls when you least expect - during full awareness. Hence, martial arts are an important aspect of films action choreography training.

Martial artists tend to consistently reassess their timing and balance based on the opponent in front of them. Whether attacking, defending or just standing, each and every movement from a master martial artist coincides with the environment around them. This fluidity goes a long way in making scenes of action movies truly impactful.  

Physical fitness and conditioning

Martial art training is known for its ability to improve physical fitness and conditioning. One can develop their endurance, agility, flexibility and strength with this training, all of which are valuable attributes for stunt performers and even actors involved in action packed movies. Maintaining peak physical condition is vital when one has to execute complex fight choreography safely and effectively.

Body awareness and control

Martial arts provides a great deal of emphasis on body awareness and control, and helps individuals to move with precision and grace. This heightened control comes as a huge advantage when executing choreographed fight sequences convincingly while also avoiding injuries. It also helps stuntmen to maintain consistency in their movements, ensuring that each take matches the previous one.

The training of people who are capable enough to tackle performing martial arts in front of the camera takes another level of focus. Fortunately, today there are Shaolin Gurukul camps, and similar other institutions where aspiring stuntmen can effectively learn martial arts to get their career on the right track.