The aim of this thesis is to explore through historical and practical research, the use of gymnastics-based practices for contemporary performer training. This thesis addresses the following key questions: What are gymnastics-based practices? How have gymnastics-based practices already influenced performer training, particularly in the work of François Delsarte, Rudolph Laban, and Jacques Lecoq? How can gymnastics-based practices be understood, applied, and developed in order to contribute to performance/performer training? The practical investigation employs the use of gymnastics-based practices in a series of three studio-based projects which focus on the development of the training. Project 1 explores gymnastics-based practices in relation to my own process as a performer. In Project 2, I apply gymnastics-based practices to the facilitation of a group-devised performance. Project 3 uses gymnastics-based practices to facilitate the actor in character development, vocal work, and performance of a naturalistic text. In this manner, this thesis has developed a set of exercises, workshops, and frameworks which draw on gymnastics-based practices to activate the performer in several different contexts.