Creative Media Skills

Introduction to Stunt Work

Take your first step into the exciting world of stunt performance with our comprehensive foundation course. This intensive program introduces you to the essential skills, safety protocols, and physical techniques that form the foundation of professional stunt work in film and television.

Course Overview

The Introduction to Stunt Work course is designed for individuals with athletic backgrounds who want to explore stunt performance as a potential career path. While you should have good physical fitness and some background in sports, martial arts, or physical performance, no previous stunt experience is required. Our expert instructors, who are active members of the UK stunt community, will guide you through fundamental techniques in a safe, controlled environment.

Located at Pinewood Studios, you’ll train in professional facilities used for actual film productions. With a maximum class size of 10 participants, you’ll receive personalized instruction and careful supervision throughout every physical exercise.

What You’ll Learn

Safety Protocols and Fundamentals

Safety is the absolute foundation of professional stunt work. Every successful stunt performer understands that their longevity in the industry depends on working safely and intelligently. This module establishes the mindset, protocols, and practices that keep stunt performers working safely throughout their careers.

You’ll learn:

Basic Falls and Breakaways

Learning to fall safely is one of the most fundamental skills in stunt performance. This module introduces you to the techniques stunt performers use to execute falls that look dramatic on camera while minimizing risk of injury.

Key topics include:

Fight Choreography Basics

Screen fighting is a carefully choreographed dance that creates the illusion of violence while keeping performers safe. This module introduces you to the fundamentals of stage combat for camera, teaching you how to make fights look convincing while maintaining control and safety.

You’ll discover:

Physical Conditioning for Stunt Work

Stunt performance requires specific physical attributes including flexibility, strength, coordination, and body control. This module introduces conditioning approaches that support the physical demands of stunt work.

Topics covered:

Building Your Foundation

This course provides a genuine introduction to stunt work while helping you understand whether this demanding career path is right for you. You’ll gain hands-on experience with fundamental techniques and, importantly, develop an understanding of the commitment, training, and physical demands required to pursue stunt work professionally.

Professional stunt performance requires years of dedicated training across multiple disciplines. Many stunt performers have backgrounds in gymnastics, martial arts, equestrian sports, or other athletic pursuits. This foundation course helps you understand where your existing skills might fit and what additional training you would need to pursue.

Industry Pathways and Resources

The UK stunt industry is regulated and professional, with organizations like the British Stunt Register maintaining standards and providing pathways into the profession. Becoming a registered stunt performer typically requires demonstrating proficiency in multiple skill areas and completing a probationary period.

Training organizations such as the British Action Academy offer comprehensive stunt training programs. Building a career in stunts typically involves:

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for physically fit individuals who are curious about stunt work as a potential career. You should be in good health, comfortable with physical activity, and willing to push your comfort zone in a controlled environment.

Perfect for:

Physical Requirements:

What to Bring

You’ll need appropriate training attire:

All professional safety equipment, crash mats, and training props are provided.

Course Details

Duration: 3 intensive days

Class Size: Maximum 10 participants

Location: Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire

Prerequisites: Good physical fitness; no previous stunt experience required

What’s Included:

Understanding the Journey

It’s important to understand that this foundation course is an introduction, not a qualification to perform stunts professionally. Becoming a professional stunt performer requires:

This course helps you understand what that journey involves and whether you want to pursue it. Many participants find the course confirms their interest and motivates them to pursue further training; others discover that stunt work isn’t the right path for them—and that’s valuable knowledge too.

Start Your Journey

If you’ve ever watched action sequences and wondered how performers achieve those incredible feats safely, this course offers authentic insight from working professionals. You’ll experience fundamental techniques, understand safety protocols, and gain realistic information about pursuing stunt work as a career.

The UK stunt industry has contributed to some of the most spectacular action sequences in cinema history. Training at Pinewood Studios connects you with this legacy and provides a genuine introduction to the profession.

Apply now to secure your place in our next Introduction to Stunt Work course, or contact us if you have questions about the course, physical requirements, or how to prepare.

Creative Media Skills foundation courses are designed to provide genuine, practical introduction to screen industry careers. Our instructors are working professionals who understand the current requirements of UK film and television production. Safety is our absolute priority in all physical training.