Author Carrie Vaughn posted a short piece about how she used action figures to help with an important scene. Here’s the link to the original post.

If you’re having a tough time with an Engagement, you might try setting up a physical model of the setting and the characters. You don’t have to be detailed at all. Carrie Vaughn used a fold-up TV tray and some action figures. You could use something as simple as some stacked books or DVD cases on end for walls, furniture, or whatever. Bottles, spice shakers, or even coffee cups can stand in for your characters. Anything to help you visualize the Engagement and how your characters move through it in the course of their Stunts.

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/horiavarlan

If you have kids, or you are a kid, or you still have your toys even though you’re no longer a kid, I’ll bet you’ve got something lying around that can function well enough to play the part. I’m a fan of LEGO for the flexibility it offers. Your mileage may vary.

Source: http://italianlane.com/how-to-defeat-a-dinosaur/

Don’t be afraid to play as part of your writing. It’ll make you a better writer and make your action scenes sparkle that much more.