spt rules | required techniques | training | q&a | do's & don'ts

Many thousands of students and professional actors have chosen to train toward the SAFD Skills Proficiency Test since 1979. The Skills Proficiency Test, formerly known as the Certification Test, and nicknamed the "Cert Test" or the "Fight Test", is offered as a service of the SAFD through its network of Certified Teachers, Fight Directors and Fight Masters. Only these qualified members may teach SPT classes (assisted, of course, by others) and only an SAFD Fight Master may adjudicate the test. The classes focus on specific disciplines with compulsory moves required to be performed in the test. It is these required moves that are tested for safety, theatrical commitment and believability within a dramatic context.

If you want to know more information, just click on any of the areas below!

SPT Rules and Regulations
Read a general overview of the rules.

Feel free to read the entire text of the official rules governing the skills proficiency test, as written in the official SAFD Policies and Procedures document. Included is information about who may teach the SPT, who may judge, student contact hours, fees involved, and more.

Required Techniques
Read about the required techniques for each weapon style. The SAFD currently tests in eight. They are: rapier and dagger, single sword (sabre, single rapier, Hollywood swashbuckling), broadsword, broadsword and shield, smallsword, knife, quarterstaff, and unarmed.

Colleges, Universities and Other SPT Training
Many colleges and university BFA or MFA programs include stage combat training which leads to a skills proficiency test. Additionally, many theaters and private studios offer the same quality training. If you are interested in learning stage combat and you want to be sure that your school offers this training, or find a local private school, check the list!

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