What challenge did you face and then
kicked
ass?
Chelsea Bruland Stunt coordinator, Stunts in Stilettos New Orleans, Louisiana Chelsea Bruland, born and bred in Australia, has a diverse athletic background which includes gymnastics and martial arts, leading her to a career as a stuntwoman. She is a stunt coordinator for blockbuster action films and works alongside some of Hollywood’s biggest names.
What motivated you when you wanted to quit? I’m a female in a man’s world, and I’ve worked my butt off to get to where I am today. I’m fairly young for what I do, and I deal with the stigma every day that “chicks can’t do that.” Ultimately, it’s the satisfaction I get from climbing up the mountain and being at the top of my game that keeps me going. All the haters and naysayers will one day, if not already, be asking me for their next job.
What challenge did you face and then kicked ass? While I am an adrenaline junkie, everything we do is a well-calculated risk, and every scenario and safety precaution is thought through carefully. One of my most nerveracking experiences was early on in my career, when I was attempting my first car hit. Car hits are the ones I hate the most, because they’re so unpredictable. I was wearing a short dress, which meant no room for padding up my elbows or knees—yet another reason why stuntwomen are so much tougher than men!—and facing a car driving straight at me. Honestly, I don’t remember much of the stunt, but I do remember it hurt like hell! But after you pick yourself up, the medic’s given you the all-clear, and the crew applauds— some may call me crazy, but it’s worth it.
What’s your advice for women? Don’t ever doubt that you can compete in a man’s world.
What do you swear by for staying fit? Staying fit, healthy, and flexible is really important for stunt performers. I try to eat clean and healthy, but I’m also human and enjoy eating out, so I’m not super strict. I switch up my exercise regime constantly. My go-tos are a rotation between running, kickboxing, swimming, cycling, dancing, and yoga. Lately, I’ve been learning trick-riding on horses, Krav Maga—an Israeli form of martial arts—and getting some time in a wind tunnel to work towards my skydiving license. CHELSEABRULAND.COM PHOTO: CARL NESPOLI
ORIGINMAGAZINE.COM 23