Stunt Muscles vs Gym Muscles. How to protect your body for impact work

The International Stunt Academy has a dedicated training programme. We encourage all students to embrace this as it is different from traditional Gym workouts and it has been created from years of study and experience of working with the best professionals in all disciplines.

Our programme is designed to take care of whole muscle groups, all the small muscles weigh lifting can miss or imbalance, and increases your body's range of motion, resistance to injury and gives performers their first layer of armour ... your muscles. 

As a stunt actor, your body is your tool, and your safety is paramount. You must be able to withstand the rigors of the most physically demanding stunts, which often require you to jump, run, fall, and fight. One of the most effective ways to prevent injuries in such situations is to have strong muscles that support and protect your joints. In this article, we will discuss why having strong muscles is crucial to your safety, and share methods you can use to build muscle around major joints to protect them against impact or twisting injuries.

Why Having Strong Muscles is Important?
Muscles are an integral part of the body's structure and are responsible for providing support, stability, and movement. When it comes to stunt work, having strong muscles is crucial for several reasons:

1. Protection Against Injuries:
   Stunts often involve high-impact movements that put a strain on the joints, such as landing from a height or performing a stunt fight. Having strong muscles around the joints helps absorb the impact and protect them against injury.
2. Improved Balance and Coordination:
   Strong muscles not only help prevent injuries but also improve your balance and coordination. This is important for executing stunts accurately and safely.
3. Enhanced Endurance:
   Stunt work requires high levels of endurance, and having strong muscles is essential for sustaining intense physical activity for extended periods. Strong muscles help delay the onset of fatigue and improve overall stamina.

Methods to Build Muscle Around Major Joints
Now that we understand why having strong muscles is essential for stunt actors, let's explore some methods to build muscle around major joints:

1. Resistance Training:
   Resistance training involves using weights or resistance bands to build muscle. This type of training is excellent for building muscle around major joints, as it can target specific muscle groups. For example, doing leg curls or squats can help build strong quadriceps and hamstring muscles, which support the knee joint.
2. Bodyweight Exercises:
   Bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups, pull-ups, and squats, are an excellent way to build muscle without using weights. These exercises can be performed anywhere and are a great option for stunt actors who travel frequently.
3. Plyometrics:
   Plyometrics is a form of exercise that involves explosive movements, such as jumping and bounding. This type of training can help build muscle and improve power around the joints. However, it should be approached with caution, as it can be high-impact and put a strain on the joints if not performed correctly.
4. Stretching and Mobility Work:
   Stretching and mobility work are crucial for preventing injury and improving joint health. Stunt actors should focus on stretching and mobility exercises that target the major joints, such as the hips, knees, and shoulders.

As a stunt actor, your safety is paramount, and having strong muscles is crucial for preventing injuries and improving performance. By incorporating resistance training, bodyweight exercises, plyometrics, and stretching and mobility work into your training routine, you can build strong muscles around major joints, protect them against impact or twisting injuries, and improve overall physical performance.

Always remember to approach training with caution, listen to your body, and always prioritize safety above all else.