What Actresses Use to Play Sports

Actresses often step out of their comfort zones to take on roles that require them to play sports. Whether it’s a dramatic portrayal of a professional athlete or a comedic take on a sports enthusiast, these talented women go to great lengths to ensure their performances are authentic. So, what do actresses use to play sports? Let’s explore some of the methods and training they employ to bring their characters to life.

1. Personal Experience

Many actresses draw on their own personal experiences with sports to inform their performances. For instance, Tessa Thompson, who played a professional basketball player in the movie “Creed,” had a background in basketball herself. This personal connection allowed her to convey the nuances of the sport with ease.

2. Professional Coaches

Actresses often seek out professional coaches to help them master the technical aspects of a sport. Coaches can provide invaluable insights into the physical and mental demands of playing a particular sport. For example, when Jennifer Lawrence took on the role of a professional skier in “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1,” she worked with a professional ski instructor to ensure her on-screen movements were realistic.

3. Training Facilities

Access to state-of-the-art training facilities is crucial for actresses who want to play sports. Gyms, sports complexes, and specialized training centers offer a wide range of equipment and resources to help them get into shape and refine their skills. For instance, Charlize Theron, who portrayed a professional boxer in “Fury,” trained at a boxing gym to prepare for her role.

4. Research

Actresses often conduct extensive research to understand the world of sports they are portraying. This may include watching documentaries, reading books, and interviewing real-life athletes. This research not only helps them understand the sport’s rules and techniques but also allows them to tap into the emotional and psychological aspects of playing sports.

5. Fitness Regimens

To look and feel like a professional athlete, actresses often adopt rigorous fitness regimens. This may involve intense workouts, dietary changes, and even specialized training programs. For instance, when Margot Robbie took on the role of a professional skier in “I, Tonya,” she trained for months to achieve the required physical condition.

6. On-Set Stunts

In some cases, actresses perform their own stunts to ensure the authenticity of their performances. This can be risky, but it also adds a level of realism to the film. For example, when Halle Berry played a professional tennis player in “Catwoman,” she performed many of her own tennis shots on set.

In conclusion, actresses use a combination of personal experience, professional coaching, training facilities, research, fitness regimens, and on-set stunts to play sports in their roles. Their dedication and commitment to authenticity make their performances memorable and engaging for audiences worldwide.