What are Breakfalls?

What are breakfalls, why are they relevant to Stunt & Action actors, and what should you know before you have a go?  Lets find out...

IMPORTANT: The information below is not an instructional guide and you should never attempt a to perform a breakfall without proper instruction and guidance. 

Breakfalls are a type of technique used in martial arts, parkour, gymnastics, and other physical activities to minimize injury when falling from a height or being thrown to the ground.

The goal of a breakfall is to absorb the impact of the fall, spread the force throughout the body, and redirect it away from vulnerable areas, such as the head, neck, and spine.

In Stunt Performance and Action Acting this also enables us to simulate serious impacts and injuries, without taking harm. 

Types of Breakfalls
There are several types of breakfalls that stunt people should be familiar with, including:

Forward Roll Breakfall
A forward roll breakfall involves rolling forward while falling to the ground. This technique is often used when falling from a standing position or when thrown forward. The forward roll breakfall is an effective way to disperse the force of the fall throughout the body and prevent injury.

To perform a forward roll breakfall:

• Start by tucking your chin into your chest and rolling forward onto your shoulder.
• Keep your arms close to your body and roll across your back.
• Use your momentum to complete the roll and stand up as quickly as possible.

Backward Roll Breakfall
A backward roll breakfall is similar to the forward roll breakfall, but instead of rolling forward, you roll backward. This technique is often used when falling backward or when thrown over the shoulder.

To perform a backward roll breakfall:

• Start by tucking your chin into your chest and rolling backward onto your shoulder.
• Keep your arms close to your body and roll across your back.
• Use your momentum to complete the roll and stand up as quickly as possible.

Side Roll Breakfall
A side roll breakfall involves rolling to the side while falling to the ground. This technique is often used when falling to the side or when thrown sideways.
To perform a side roll breakfall:

• Start by turning your body to the side and tucking your chin into your chest.
• Roll onto your shoulder and across your back.
• Use your momentum to complete the roll and stand up as quickly as possible.

High Fall Breakfall
A high fall breakfall is used when falling from a height. This technique involves tucking your body into a ball and rolling when you hit the ground.
To perform a high fall breakfall:

• Tuck your chin into your chest and bring your knees up to your chest.
• Land on your back and roll across your shoulders and back.
• Use your momentum to complete the roll and stand up as quickly as possible.

Some advice before attempting to perform Breakfalls
When performing breakfalls, it is essential to follow these safety tips to prevent injury:

• Always warm up before performing breakfalls to prevent muscle strain and other injuries.
• Choose a safe location to practice breakfalls, such as a padded area or gym mat.
• Start with low falls and work your way up to higher falls as you gain confidence and skill.
• Practice breakfalls with a partner to receive feedback and ensure proper technique.

To perform a breakfall:

• Tuck your chin into your chest to protect your head and neck.
• Use your arms to absorb the impact of the fall.
• Roll across your back to distribute the force of the fall throughout your body.
• Use your momentum to stand up as quickly as possible.

In summary
Breakfalls are a critical skill for stunt people, martial artists, and other athletes to minimize injury when falling from a height or being thrown to the ground. By learning and practicing different types of breakfalls, you can protect yourself from injury and improve your overall safety and performance. Remember to always warm up, choose a safe location, and practice with
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