How to Skydive
Skydiving is one activity that may be in your list of things you want to do before you die. Skydiving is fun, exhilarating and will literally throw you out of your comfort zone. Here’s what you need to know about skydiving when you’re about to do it the first time around.
Log on to the United States Parachute Association’s website to check where the closest affiliated dropzone is.
Once you’ve located a dropzone that is a comfortable distance away, zone in on a certified skydiving center. Before you sign in, make sure that the package they offer includes a proper skydiving course, a jump and a video of the jump.
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Once you’ve enrolled, you’ll have to take mandatory skydiving courses before the jump.
Consider jumping with a group. Not only will the shared experiences of training will make you more comfortable before the jump, but you can score group discounts as well.
You’ll be required to physically train yourself into skydiving as well, so be prepared.
Choose the method of your first jump. Most choices are usually between a tandem jump or an Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) Jump. A tandem jump means that you jump with a certified skydiving instructor literally attached to you via harness. The instructor will be the one handling all the technical aspects of skydiving. An AFF Jump will see you exiting the plane with two instructors holding on to you to guide your jump. An instructor on land will also help you through the process of skydiving.
On the day of the jump, dress for the weather. Wear sneakers and an extra layer of clothing. It can get pretty cold up there!
Pay attention to the briefing prior to the jump. Listen to all the instructions your skydiver instructors have to impart.
Board the plane. It will take you up to an altitude of 3,000 feet to 10,000 feet for the jump. Savor the experience, and prepare yourself for the jump. Before you reach the jumping altitude, your instructor will connect himself or herself to you using a harness.
Pay attention to what your instructor has to say even at the last minute. Follow instructions to a tee. Jump!
Enjoy the skydive.
Pay close attention to your instructor, who will guide you through the parachuting phrase. Listen to the instructions on how to land, but of course, you should already know that by heart.
Land safely, and who knows, you might do it again.