Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is a newly developed technique currently in clinical use. SBRT originated from stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for intracranial tumors. Since the 1990s, SBRT has been widely used in clinical settings for the treatment of lung cancer. We review the history and current standard techniques. Previous clinical studies of lung cancer showed high local control rates with acceptable toxicities. Past and on-going clinical trials are also reviewed.