When someone adds the word "adventure" to a sentence about skydiving, some might be tempted to respond, "But skydiving is already an adventure." This is true to some extent, but over the past few decades some thrill-seeking and creative individuals have spiced up their sport with some interesting twists.
Since about 1797, this has been a sport and a recreational pastime for people of all ages. Many skydiving sites cater almost exclusively to beginners, concentrating on ground instruction and the first few jumps for the newcomer. Experienced, certified instructors work at these locations, most of them with hundreds or thousands of jumps to their credit.
What About The Adventure?
Explained simply, adventure skydiving involves jumping from an airplane or a stationary object such as a bridge or tower (base jumping) using a parachute to slow and control the landing. This activity is certainly not for everyone, though the hesitant few who try it always seem to come back. The thrill of skydiving is said to be addictive.
Your First Jump
Classroom training, essential to skydiving safety and enjoyment, may extend to five hours or so. This intensive training is meant to prepare the student to open a parachute and is also meant to reinforce the idea that, while this sport is meant to be fun, it is also serious.
Beginners may want to try tandem jumping, in which the student is harnessed to a very experienced instructor. This instructor remains in control of the tandem dive, allowing the student or visitor to enjoy the sights and take in the experience.
The student may also choose accelerated free falling, which involves getting to the freefall stage more quickly, bypassing the wing world. In this classroom session, the newcomer will learn about leaving the plane, how to position the body on the air, and how to steer or land the plane.
One of the requirements for a good skydiver is discipline. This helps keep everyone safe. The disciplined skydiver will get the most from the classroom training as well. After this training, following the students out of the building and toward an airplane is a thrill that never seems to get old. is the best place to start learning skydiving.
Contrary to popular belief, there is little risk in adventure skydiving. If the student follows the instructor very carefully and makes sure the equipment is ready, you may be sure that the outcome will be successful. Ready for thrills and some adventure?
