Inside the Stunt Performer's Kit Bag: Essential Tools for the Trade
Introduction
Stunt performers play a role in the film industry executing thrilling action scenes and dangerous stunts. To excel in their profession, these individuals depend on a range of tools and gear that ensure their safety, comfort and ability to deliver performances. This article delves into the contents of a stunt performers kit bag highlighting the items that support these risk takers in their challenging line of work.
Safety Equipment
Safety is priority for stunt performers, who pack their kit bags with protective gear aimed at reducing the risk of injury during stunts.
Common safety equipment includes:
Helmet: An piece to safeguard the head during falls and high impact actions.
Protective Pads: Stunt professionals often utilize elbow and knee pads to protect their joints and minimize injury risks.
Mouthguard: Essential for shielding teeth and jaws during stunts to prevent dental injuries.
Wrist Guards: Important for providing support to the wrists, helping to prevent sprains and fractures when performing stunts involving falls or hand landings.
Harnesses and Rigging Equipment - Crucial for stunt performers to execute stunts or create the illusion of defying gravity.
This category includes:
Harness: A comfortable and sturdy harness is vital to ensure the safety and stability of performers during suspension based stunts.
Carabiners and Swivels: These versatile connectors play a role in attaching the performers harness to rigging systems ensuring a safe and reliable connection.
Safety Lines: Various safety lines and lanyards are included in a stunt performers gear to offer additional support and fall protection during stunts.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is also important for stunt performers, who may carry a variety of gear to shield themselves from hazards on set. This may involve:
Work Gloves: Durable gloves protect hands from abrasions, cuts and burns while engaging in rigging set construction or pyrotechnic stunts.
Safety Glasses or Goggles: Eye protection is crucial for safeguarding the eyes against debris, dust and potential dangers during stunts and, on set activities. Stunt performers must prioritize protecting their hearing by using earplugs since they often face noises like explosions and gunfire while filming.
Wardrobe Essentials
To adapt to scenes or characters quickly, stunt performers should carry the following items in their kit bags:
Base Layers: Breathable and moisture wicking base layers help performers stay dry and comfortable during demanding stunts.
Spare Clothing: Having sets of spare clothing such as shirts, pants and socks ensures that performers always have clean attire available.
Non Slip Shoes: Quality non slip footwear provides the necessary grip and support for stunts involving running, jumping or climbing.
Miscellaneous Tools and Supplies
An equipped kit bag may also contain tools and supplies useful on set.
Gaffer Tape: This versatile tape is handy for securing padding making repairs to props or equipment.
Multi tool: A compact multi tool can be a lifesaver, for adjustments or repairs to rigging or props.
Personal First Aid Kit: A must have on set with band aids, pain relievers and basic medical supplies to address injuries or discomfort.
Personal Care Essentials
For stunt performers spending hours on set personal care items are additions to their kit bags. These may include:
Hydration Pack or Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key during demanding stunts.
Sunscreen: Essential for shoots to protect from UV rays.
Insect Repellent: A lifesaver in areas where insects can be bothersome.
Towel: Handy for wiping off sweat or cleaning up post stunt.
Fitness Gear
To stay in shape stunt performers often carry training equipment like;
Resistance Bands: Lightweight and versatile for on set strength exercises.
Massage Ball or Foam Roller: Ideal for soothing muscles, after workouts. These instruments aid artists in easing muscle tension and discomfort, facilitating recovery and enhanced performance.
Skipping Rope: A skipping rope is an efficient tool for cardio workouts and enhancing coordination.
In Summary
The contents of a stunt performers gear bag mirror the requirements and obstacles of their craft. From gear and safety equipment to grooming items and training aids these vital possessions assist performers in navigating the risky realm of stunts with confidence and expertise. By ensuring they possess the tools, within reach stunt performers can concentrate on delivering action sequences while prioritizing their safety and well being.
