Get a Behind-the-Scenes Look at the NBC Show
Ever dreamt of tackling the ‘American Ninja Warrior’ course but without the pressure of competing on TV? Now’s your chance to shine behind the scenes as an obstacle tester. The ‘American Ninja Warrior’ production crew is on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers to test their challenging courses before filming begins.
How to Volunteer
In each city, just before the official competition, a team of volunteers is assembled to help identify any last-minute adjustments needed for the obstacles. Though there’s no monetary compensation, you get the unique opportunity to test your ninja skills in a stress-free environment. Testing usually starts one to two days before the Qualifiers and continues until the Finals in each city.
Who Can Volunteer?
Volunteers come from all walks of life, including professional stunt performers, everyday gym enthusiasts, and even former applicants who didn’t make it onto the show. Interested in becoming a tester? You can email the casting team or show up on set during filming to see if additional testers are needed.
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Benefits of Being a Tester
Aside from the thrill of tackling the course, volunteers often get invited back to watch the filming at no cost. Each testing session lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, providing ample time to experience the course firsthand.
Organizing the Testing Sessions
Adam Sheldon, the show’s Challenge Producer, oversees the organization of these testing sessions. He coordinates sign-ups and provides all necessary details about the testing process. A crucial note: if you test the course, you cannot compete in that season. This is to ensure fairness and integrity in the competition.
How to Sign Up
To sign up, email anwobstacletesting@gmail.com with your preferred testing location. Adam will acknowledge your email and update you as the testing dates approach. About two and a half weeks before the testing dates, he will confirm the specific dates and times, and coordinate with you based on your availability.
What to Expect
Testing begins shortly before the Qualifiers and continues through the Finals. The process includes a mix of participants from different skill levels. While testing for the Qualifiers is open to many, the Finals testing is more selective, featuring top Ninjas from the Qualifiers and others who were eliminated.
A typical session may involve 75 to 100 testers, with the aim to give everyone a chance to tackle at least one obstacle. Be prepared for various scenarios—sometimes you may face several obstacles, other times none, depending on the day’s requirements.
Important Guidelines
Only registered testers are allowed on the set, and spectators are not permitted. Filming is prohibited during testing sessions, though you may take photos in designated areas. Additionally, bring extra clothes and footwear as you will be navigating obstacles over water.
Watch ‘American Ninja Warrior’
Catch the latest episodes of ‘American Ninja Warrior’ Season 16 starting Monday, June 3, on NBC and Peacock. Don’t miss out on any of the action!
By volunteering as an obstacle tester, you get a unique peek behind the scenes of ‘American Ninja Warrior,’ testing your skills and contributing to the show’s success.
