Every year, half a million people make the decision to skydive. While some of them do it because they are natural thrill-seekers, others are looking for something new to bring a spark into their lives. If you have never gone skydiving, the prospect of it may seem very confusing and frightening. The following information will help you ease your mind and prepare yourself for one of the more exciting times of your life.
Taking Skydiving Classes
Going skydiving is not as simple as calling up a company and scheduling a dive. Before you are allowed to jump, you must take some classes to ensure you will be ready when the time comes. The classes you will be required to take depend on the type of jump you would like to make. For example, if you are considering a tandem jump, the training you are required to take is shorter than an hour. Every skydiving company has their own requirements, but generally they are all pretty short.
Choosing A Jump
There are several different types of jumps available, but the following three are best for people who do not have a lot of experience. Choose a jump that will make you feel very confident and comfortable or you run the risk of ruining the experience for yourself.
- Tandem Jumping - This is when you jump from the plane while you are strapped to the back of your instructor. There is a brief freefall, then the two of you descend using the same parachute.
- Static Line Jumping - This is for those people who are feeling bolder. Instead of jumping with the help of an instructor, you are allowed to jump from the plane and land all on your own.
- Accelerated Freefall - This is similar to static line in the sense that you are allowed to descend alone, but when you initially leave the plane, it is with the help of two instructors.
If you are jumping with a group, it may be tempting to show off and try a jump that you are not quite ready for. Again, it is best to stay in your own comfort zone during the first jump. You can try a riskier jump some time in the future.
Safety
When you are signing up for classes, make sure that the school you are interested in adheres to the Federal Aviation Regulations. This will ensure that you will be safe while you are completing your jump.
Now that you have all of this information at your fingertips, it is time to use it to your advantage. Take some skydiving classes, schedule a jump and get ready to add some excitement to your life.
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