1. Reduce Unnecessary Stressors

It’s no surprise to us that skydiving can be a nerve-wracking situation for many first-time jumpers. Which is why we suggest doing things to minimize any additional external stressors as you prepare for your skydive. 

One example would be to plan to arrive at the dropzone early enough to give you some leeway in the case of an unexpected travel issue or to give you extra time to chilllll. Your reservation time is your check-in time; anyone who is 15+ minutes late will result in a per-person late fee. This is only to help you get the most out of your experience! We want our customers to feel relaxed and ready for their skydive. Rushing to get to the dropzone at the last minute can leave you feeling stressed out and panicky, impeding your ability to take in information and relax enough to enjoy your overall experience. 

Start your day with ample time to spare, allowing you to arrive at the dropzone in a good headspace and ready to embark on your adventure.

2. Be Flexible

Patience is a virtue, especially in the world of skydiving. Many factors, primarily weather conditions and operations, can affect the exact time that you board the airplane. While it is natural to be eager to jump immediately after check-in, it’s essential to have a flexible mindset. We usually advise our customers to plan to be here for half of the day just in case the clouds roll in. Avoid planning significant events immediately after your skydive, as unforeseen delays might occur. Embrace the unpredictability and you’ll find your experience much more enjoyable!

3. The Magnitude of Photos and Video

Skydiving is not just another adventure, it is quite possibly one of the most impactful experiences of your life. While there is an additional cost associated with adding photos and videos to your skydive, it is well worth it. The ability to relive your jump is an investment in memories that will last a lifetime.

4. Bring a Hair Tie (or Beard Tie)

Speaking of photos and videos, looking good in your skydiving photos is crucial, and wind-blown hair or an unruly beard can be a bit distracting – not only for the viewer but for the instructor as well! Ensure you look and feel your best by pulling back or braiding your hair (or beard) to keep everything in place during your 120 mph freefall. Trust us, you do NOT want to deal with untangling those knots after landing.

5. Celebrate After the Jump, Not Before

Nervousness is natural for first-time skydivers, but attempting to calm your nerves with drugs or alcohol is a big no-no! Skydiving has very strict policies regarding alcohol consumption before a jump. If alcohol is detected, you will not be permitted to skydive. However, that doesn’t stop you from celebrating after your jump! Check out these local bars.

6. Bring Cash or Venmo

While tipping isn’t expected, it is a thoughtful gesture to show your tandem team some love! If you feel that the instructor did an exceptionally good job at saving your life, a small gratuity is always appreciated. Be prepared to express your gratitude with cash, Venmo, or whichever they prefer for a job well done!

7. Leave the Bling

As tempting as it may be to accessorize for your skydive, leave the precious jewels at home. Anything that comes loose during freefall is likely gone for good! Opt for simplicity to avoid any regrets later.

8. Stylish, but Comfy

Choosing the right attire for skydiving is crucial for both style and comfort during your jump. We usually recommend wearing form-fitted, athletic clothing that keeps you covered and athletic shoes that are secure to your feet. Avoid boots, heels, sandals and any clothing that has snag hazards like tassels, zippers, and rhinestones. Comfort is key when it comes to enjoying your first skydiving experience.

9. Eat a Balanced Meal and Stay Hydrated

Maintaining your well-being is essential for a successful jump. Eating a light meal before arriving and staying hydrated, especially during the summer months, are key to a successful skydive. The adrenaline rush can be a lot for your body to handle, so you’ll want to be sure to fuel your body for the flight! Feel free to bring snacks and drinks with you; there are plenty of restaurants and grocery stores near Start Skydiving.

10. Earlier is Better!

If you’re wanting to increase your chances of a smooth jump, keep in mind that the earlier in the day, the better. Starting your adventure early allows for optimal atmospheric conditions and reduces the risk of weather-related delays or cancellations.

Bonus Tip: What to Bring

Beyond your valid, government-issued photo ID and form of payment required for your skydive, we urge you to consider enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at Start Skydiving and making a day of it! Your skydiving adventure is not just about the jump, it’s an experience meant to be shared and celebrated with your closest friends and family. With picnic tables, two paved patios and manicured green spaces, there is plenty of room for activities for you and your family to enjoy. Here’s a quick checklist of recommended items to bring:

• Camera: Capture the before and after or record licensed skydivers land their parachutes.
• Sunglasses
• Binoculars: Get a close-up view of the action.
• Stereo: Clean lyrics and moderate volume, please!
• Picnic Blanket/Basket: Pack snacks to share with friends and family.
• Water and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
• Games: Keep the fam entertained with a frisbee, soccer ball, or basketball at our on-site basketball hoop.

A successful skydiving experience goes beyond the jump itself. By heeding these important reminders, you’ll set the stage for an unforgettable adventure through the skies. Come prepared, keep an open mind, be patient, and most importantly, savor every single moment of the breathtaking journey that awaits you.

Now that you’re ready, book your skydive with the premiere destination for skydiving in Ohio, Start Skydiving! Blue skies, friends.

The post What First-Time Skydivers Often Overlook: Important Reminders Before Your Jump appeared first on Start Skydiving.

What Do You Need for Your First Time Skydiving?

If you’re gearing up for your first skydiving adventure, you won’t need to worry about purchasing any of the fancy parachuting equipment or wondering what to pack. At Start Skydiving, all necessary skydiving gear is provided with your purchase of a tandem skydive package.

Here’s a checklist for what you’ll need to wear and bring with your for your first jump:

• Comfortable Clothing
  Opt for weather-appropriate, comfortable attire that is easy to move in. Avoid loose clothing or any clothing that may snag on the skydiving equipment (tassels, rhinestones, buttons, etc.). Athletic clothing that is form fitting and easy to layer if necessary is ideal for cooler temps up at altitude. Shorts are okay during the heat of the summer, however, we recommend wearing athletic pants when skydiving to keep your legs protected from the fast winds and the grass as you slide-in on your landing.
  
• Closed-Toe Shoes
  Protect those piggies! Athletic shoes that can be laced up tightly and cover the whole foot are an absolute must for a safe skydiving landing.
  
• Identification
  Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) and be prepared to fill out necessary paperwork when you arrive at the dropzone.
  
• Positive Attitude
  Your enthusiasm and sense of adventure are your best companions. Bring an open-mind, positive attitude, and be ready to experience the thrill of your life!

What Equipment Do You Need to Go Skydiving?

• Skydiving Jumpsuit
  First things first, let’s talk about the iconic skydiving jumpsuit. The fashionable evolution of the skydiving jumpsuit has gone from baggy with bright colors and geometric shapes to sleek and form-fitting with bold block colors. While jumpsuits do indeed make you look good, it’s functionality reigns supreme.
  
  Modern-day jumpsuits are specially designed to reduce drag during your freefall in order to fly more stable and enjoyable. Plus, they help protect your clothes from grass stains on landing, your skin from the 120 mph winds and do a pretty good job of keeping you cozy at higher altitudes.

• Parachutes
  Your parachute gear is absolutely the heart of your kit. Skydivers jump with a dual parachute system – a main parachute and a reserve (back-up) parachute. The main parachute, or canopy, is your go-to wing, while the reserve parachute is your trusty back-up in case of emergencies. Reserve parachutes are to be repacked and inspected every 180 days regardless of whether or not they have been deployed and only by a certified parachute rigger.

• Skydiving Rig
  The skydiving rig is that cool backpack-looking thing that skydivers wear. It is equipped with everything you need for a successful parachute deployment. The secure harness is what holds you into the system and the container is what holds the two parachutes and Automatic Activation Device (AAD).
  
• Automatic Activation Device
  The Automatic Activation Device (AAD) is the mini microprocessing computer that will automatically deploy the parachute at a certain altitude and speed should you (or the instructor) be unable to do so themselves for whatever reason.

• Altimeter
  Ever wonder how skydivers know when to pull their parachutes? An indispensable tool called an altimeter! The altimeter is that watch-looking thing that skydivers wear on their arms, and its job is to calculate altitude by using the barometric pressures in the air.
  
• Skydiving Helmet
  If you’re a tandem skydiver, you won’t wear a helmet on your skydive. Here’s why… On a tandem skydive, you are strapped in front of your instructor. The potential of head-butting your instructor and potentially knocking them unconscious is much more risky than actually needing a helmet to protect your head from trauma!
  
  Once you take on the student program, you will use a helmet not only to protect your noggin but also to communicate with your instructor via radio. Licensed skydivers also use helmets as a secure spot for their audible altimeter, keeping tabs on their altitude while their busy fun flying through the sky with friends.
  
• Goggles
  Skydiving goggles aren’t just cool eyewear; they’re essential for protecting your eyes from the fierce wind. Designed to fit snugly over your eyes (and glasses), these goggles ensure you have a clear view during freefall. No squinting necessary!
  
• Gloves
  If you jump where the sun’s always shining, you probably won’t need skydiving gloves. But if you plan to jump into the fall and beyond in Ohio, you’re going to want gloves! On some days, you may even want to double-bag your gloves! Keeping your fingers warm and nimble is important for safe navigation from the sky to the ground.  

When Should I Buy My First Skydiving Rig?

We’ll be honest, skydiving can be an expensive hobby, so purchasing your first skydiving rig can be a huge commitment.

If you’re just starting out, it’s common practice to rent skydiving gear from the dropzone as you journey through your skydiving license, or even as a newly licensed jumper. This allows you to get a feel for the sport; seek skydiving gear advice from skydiving instructors; peruse our shop and other gear stores to see what’s for sale; figure out what size parachute works best for you; and research all the different parachuting equipment brands out there before making a substantial investment.

As you gain experience and become more serious about skydiving, you may want to consider purchasing your own skydiving rig. Most dropzones include gear rental in the price of each student jump and offer gear rental for an additional cost even after you become a licensed skydiver. So, no rush – you’ll know when the timing is right!

Check out our FAQs pages for more information about tandem skydiving or learning to skydive. And if you’re ready to take the leap, book your first jump or sign up for your first jump course! We can’t wait to get you started on your skydiving journey. Blue skies!

The post Gear Up for Your Jump: Essential Skydiving Equipment Explained appeared first on Start Skydiving.

Sure, there’s plenty you can overthink and worry about when falling toward the earth at 120 mph, but struggling over overcoming skydiving fear doesn’t have to keep you from undertaking one of the most fulfilling experiences of a lifetime. 

While a lot of the fears around skydiving are valid, understanding the actual risks versus the perceived risks and learning how to mitigate them certainly makes the idea of jumping out of an airplane a lot less scary. Using techniques to cope with your fear not only helps make skydiving more enjoyable, it also serves you well in other areas of your life. 

And, of course, it helps to know that you’re in good hands. Read on for some skydiving anxiety tips and let Start Skydiving support you as you embark on a life changing journey. 

Common Skydiving Fears

It’s completely normal to feel anxious about exiting an airplane and plummeting toward the ground at 120 mph. And the popular representation of skydiving as a reckless pursuit doesn’t exactly help in calming any of those fears! 

Equipment Malfunction 

The most common worry that arises around skydiving is equipment malfunction or failure. After all, once you leave the airplane, your entire life depends on the assumption that the gear you’re wearing will work properly. That’s a lot of responsibility for a bag of fabric and string! 

Here’s the reality. Many decades of research and development have gone into making the equipment skydivers currently use safer and more reliable than it’s ever been. In fact, equipment malfunctions account for a very small fraction of skydiving fatalities. And hear this: at Start Skydiving, we operate with an uncompromising commitment to safety. For us, doubts are don’ts – if we doubt the viability of any gear or equipment, we don’t jump it. Period. 

Our fleet of skydiving rigs is meticulously maintained and regularly inspected by an FAA certified rigger. And every tandem pack job is completed by a highly trained and experienced professional packer. 

Fear of Heights

Now that you know you don’t need to worry about equipment issues, what about those psychological and physiological reactions that are out of your control? A fear of heights is a very logical concern for someone considering exiting an airplane thousands of feet in the air, but it’s also actually a lot less of a problem than it seems. 

The extreme height at which skydiving occurs, and the lack of any close points of reference, mean that your brain can’t really process the height as something to fear. It’s like you’re flying over a topographical map rather than the ground. So, if looking out the window in a regular airplane feels OK, chances are you’ll be just fine when skydiving. What you’re really dealing with is altitude rather than height. There are actually a lot of licensed skydivers who have an extreme fear of heights and do just fine – many with thousands of skydives under their belt!

What If???

But, of course, there’s still the “what if?” What if you panic? What if you pass out? What if you … yikes … puke?? These are all valid concerns that could pose a real problem mid-jump. 

The good news is, between having an instructor who’s trained to handle anything thrown their way and some solid pre-jump calming techniques, it’s possible to not only make it through the skydive (even if you’re worried that you can’t!) but to have a fantastic time throughout!

Mind Over Matter

There are several techniques that even seasoned skydivers sometimes use to calm the nerves associated with jumping out of an airplane. Do you really think Team Fastrax never gets nervous before a big jump?? Think again! 

Starting your day off right is a big part of managing your nerves. Have a balanced breakfast, go for a run, do some meditating – whatever helps you find your Zen. Take some time before you even leave for the dropzone to get our mind where it needs to be. 

It also helps to visualize yourself on the jump and everything going well. If you can get your mind’s eye used to the idea of what you’re about to do, it’ll be a lot easier to process once your real eyes see it. 

And if you’re someone who needs more than just imagination to get used to something, YouTube is a great resource. There are plenty of skydiving videos on the internet that will show you exactly what it’s like to jump out of an airplane. 

Pro Tip: Maybe just avoid the videos that are intended to sensationalize fear.

Ultimately, you know your brain and body best, and chances are this isn’t the first stressful situation you’ve been in … and it won’t be the last. Dealing with the nerves of a skydive isn’t all that different than working through any other stressful situation. Do what calms you and your experience will be better for it. 

The Start Skydiving Assurance

On top of all of your efforts to keep yourself calm, you can also rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to make your skydiving experience go as smoothly as possible. We prioritize your safety and comfort above all else, and the most important thing to us is that you leave the dropzone happy. 

Every single one of our instructors is highly experienced and USPA certified as a minimum requirement of working at Start Skydiving. No matter which one of our instructors you’re paired with, you’ll know that they’re qualified to do their job. We only hire instructors who share our vision of safety and satisfaction. As Start Skydiving’s primary representatives, they know how to treat our customers with patience and respect: 

• “I can’t thank Start Skydiving enough for making this experience one I will never forget. My instructor Stephen made me so comfortable and relaxed, as I was not sure I would even go through with the jump. I was reassured every step of the way that I was in good hands and safe.  This is a day I will never forget and Start Skydiving/Stephen made it one of the best experiences I have ever had!”

• “A couple friends and I went to Start Skydiving for the first time. The staff was so friendly and nice. All of us went tandem. I was paired with Rodrigo Lopes. He was better than could be expected. He was funny, light-hearted and all around welcoming. He helped to calm my nerves and to make the experience one that I’ll never forget!”

• “Our first time skydiving and we loved it. We did tandem jumps and our guys were easy going and knew what they were doing. Made us relaxed and able to enjoy the experience.”

Additionally, our airplanes, equipment, and infrastructure are all top-of-the-line and meticulously maintained. These are the variables that we have control over, and we take advantage of that opportunity to ensure they are in tip top shape. 

At Start Skydiving, we’re right there in the air with you. We’re your instructors, your pilots, your videographers, and we use all the same gear and facilities that you do. 

Our mission is that the love we feel for this sport comes across in the way we make you feel while you’re in the sky with us. 

Overcoming fear is both the hardest and most rewarding thing in life. It opens doors and shifts outlooks in life-changing ways. Come visit with us at Start Skydiving and let us help you open your wings and fly. Book your jump! Blue skies. 

The post From Fear To Thrill: Facing Your Skydiving Anxieties Head On appeared first on Start Skydiving.

We understand the degree of trust you put in us when you choose Start Skydiving for your tandem skydive. And living up to – and exceeding – your expectations is our priority. 

Safety, comfort, and customer service are infused into every interaction you’ll have with us. We know how much that first skydive means. It’s how every one of us got our start in this sport we love so much. We want yours to be just as special as ours was. 

Read on for just some of the reasons Start Skydiving is the number one choice for the best skydiving in Ohio.  

The Start Skydiving Difference

Many dropzones, big and small, function on efficiency alone. In fact, there’s a term for that type of operation in the industry: tandem factory. This type of operation runs on a turn and burn philosophy: get them in and out, as many as possible in a day. 

Start Skydiving in Ohio couldn’t be more different. For starters, Start Skydiving is a family owned and operated business. Our vision is all about the experience. A lot of people only jump out of an airplane once, so we believe in delivering the best skydive ever! 

Jumping out of an airplane is amazing on its own. We’re responsible for making the rest of the experience live up to that thrill. Customer service is integral to everything we do here, and it shows. Check out some of our reviews:

• “It’s been 3 days since I was thrown from a plane. Of course, with my human backpack, Benjamin, who made my first leap the greatest single thing I’ve ever done. Every employee there made sure it was a great experience. Like I said, it’s been 3 days since and I can’t stop thinking or talking about it. I have told anyone who will listen. They need to do this and they need to do this at Start Skydiving! Epic Time!”

• “Rodrigo Lopez was my instructor and he was amazing!!!! This place has such a welcoming environment, from the people to the waiting activities, to the skydiving experience itself. I will 100% be coming back! Thank you for everything!”

• “I can’t thank Start Skydiving enough for making this experience one I will never forget. My instructor, Stephen, made me so comfortable and relaxed, as I was not sure I would even go through with the jump. I was reassured every step of the way that I was in good hands and safe. This is a day I will never forget and Start Skydiving/Stephen made it one of the best experiences I have ever had!”

Our owners jump from the same aircraft as our customers – we share the same space on the ground, and we feel the same love for the sky. We understand your wants and needs because we’re right there in that world with you. The only thing more important to us than putting a smile on your face is keeping you safe. 

Safety First

The biggest concern people have when going skydiving for the first time is their safety. You’re already willingly jumping out of an airplane mid-flight, so it makes sense that you’d want to make sure all the associated ducks are in a row. Just because you’re deciding to take a risk doesn’t mean you can’t minimize it in every way possible. 

Every component of your skydive at Start Skydiving is planned with safety in mind, from the ground up. It all begins with the workhorses of our operation, our airplanes. Often thought of as an incidental component of the skydiving experience, we treat our planes as if they’re the stars of the show. Because they are. 

Sure, the airplane ride is just the necessary step to the true main event, but it’s also where you’re going to spend the majority of your time in the sky. We work hand in hand with licensed aircraft mechanics to meticulously maintain our fleet to the highest standards. 

And we bring that same energy to every part of your skydiving experience. Our skydiving equipment is inspected and maintained with the same enthusiasm for safety as we bring to our aircraft. We only jump the highest quality gear, and it is regularly repacked and inspected by certified FAA riggers and experienced packers. The gear is literally life saving equipment, and we don’t ever take that for granted. We want to know that it’s going to work properly every single time. 

But it doesn’t stop with the infrastructure. The human aspect of our process is just as crucial to safety as anything else. We not only hire the most experienced instructors, but we also ensure that they truly value the importance of safety on every single jump. Our instructors are all USPA certified to do their job and each one has been hand selected to work with us because of their passion for our mission and our sport.

Want more reassurance? You don’t have to take our word for it. Our unblemished safety record speaks for itself. And our past (and returning) customers can tell you all about it! 

Top Notch Facilities

Your skydive with us is more than just a leap into the sky. You’re going to be spending a good amount of your day with us, and we want every part of that day to be excellent. The skydive shouldn’t be the only part of the experience that you enjoy. 

As such, we’ve purpose-built an environment and facilities that we are truly proud of, and that will keep you comfortable and satisfied while you wait for your turn in the sky. Our dropzone is so much more than a place to take off and land. We have lots of green space, lawn chairs, picnic tables, and shade so you can relax and enjoy the DZ vibe. If you want to get into the action before or after your jump, we also have an indoor high ropes course and climbing wall, foosball, cornhole, and tabletop games. And if you decide to stay and play at the dropzone, we have a bonfire pit, clean showers and restrooms, and a campground. 

We also offer additional services to include in your skydive that take your jump to the next level. Add one of our professional videographers to your jump package to really make your day an experience to remember!  

If first impressions are everything, then you’ll trust that you’re in good hands from the moment you walk through our door. 

Location, Location, Location 

We can only control your experience within the bounds of our dropzone. That’s why we’re so lucky to be situated in the breathtaking scenic beauty of Ohio. We’re surrounded by the wide open fields of the American Midwest, where the views from the sky go on forever. You’ve never seen Ohio quite like this before. 

Our neighbors also make your time spent with us on the ground even better. Smith Park is one example. There’s a fishing pond, splash pad, playground, and soccer and baseball fields on the property beside us. Then, of course, there’s the Great Miami River and the Great Miami River Trail (over 75+ miles long!). You can very easily add a grand kayaking and biking adventure into your time with us. It’s one of the advantages to skydiving in the great state of Ohio. 

Whether you’re looking for activities to round out your adrenaline filled day, somewhere to celebrate after your jump, or a place to stay while you’re in town, Middletown has plenty to offer!
Discover why Start Skydiving in Ohio is the top choice in skydiving for beginners. From experienced instructors to breathtaking views over Middletown, you will embark on a skydiving journey like no other. Ready for the thrill? Book your jump! Blues skies.

The post Why First-Timers Choose Start Skydiving in Ohio appeared first on Start Skydiving.

What Is Skydiving Like? 

Tandem skydiving feels a lot like sitting on a stranger’s lap and chucking yourself from a perfectly good airplane. Can’t relate? Let us break it down. 

When you arrive at the dropzone you’ll be greeted by our awesome staff, watch a United States Parachute Association (USPA) issued tandem video, sign a waiver, and meet your instructor. Your instructor will give you a pre-jump briefing where they’ll address the plane ride to altitude, the freefall, and the parachute/landing portion of the skydive. This is your time to ask your own questions!

After the briefing, you’ll put on a super snazzy jumpsuit and tandem harness, which allows your instructor to attach themselves to you. You, your instructor, and your videographer will board the aircraft along with other skydivers and start the climb to altitude. Once we reach our magic altitude of 14,000 feet the door of the airplane will open – this is when we recommend you take a big breath in! Your instructor will skillfully scooch you both towards the door, you’ll feel the rush of the wind on your face, smile at your videographer, and 1, 2, 3 BANANA (arch!) to go into freefall. 

After about a minute of taking in some 12/10 views, your instructor will deploy the parachute and begin your gliding descent back to earth. You’ll fly around under the parachute for about 5 minutes, land back on Mother Earth, and give your instructor the biggest high five of your life! This is when people are typically speechless and unable to comprehend what actually just happened. We remind them: Yes! You did that!!

• Does skydiving hurt? Nope! Skydiving equipment and technology has been refined over the years to allow skydivers to continuously experience the sport in a safe way. We always put safety first, and if there’s any reason for us to believe the skydive could end up being painful, we just won’t send it! 

Skydiving is like experiencing everything good and exciting in life all at the same time.  

Does Skydiving Feel Like A Roller Coaster? 

A notable difference between going skydiving and riding a roller coaster is the time of contemplation. While a roller coaster makes you endure a few seconds of “OMG OMG OMG” before the big drop or insanely fast take off, the plane ride to altitude gives you a whole 20-ish minutes to consider what the heck you’re actually doing. 

Does your stomach drop when you skydive?

It can, but not in the way you may think. People either love or vehemently hate the stomach in your throat feeling – eek! It’s a common myth that your stomach will drop once you exit the airplane, and that could not be more false. 

A tingly tummy happens when you accelerate from 0 mph; like when you go cliff jumping or bungee jumping. When you jump from an airplane, you’re starting at around 60 mph, not zero. This means that when we exit the aircraft, we don’t actually go straight down, but rather down a wind gradient that we call “the hill.” The hill is created when we combine the forward motion of the airplane with the gravitational pull toward earth. Skydivers don’t actually start falling ‘straight down’ until about 10 seconds after exiting the airplane, and even then the wind pushes them side to side and they rarely ever fall straight down, but we won’t get into that right now! When you skydive, your body is already in motion before leaving the airplane, so don’t worry about the stomach drop upon exit.  

Do you feel your stomach drop when skydiving at all? 

The only time the stomach drop feeling would present itself is under the parachute. When we make a turn under the canopy, our bodies experience centrifugal force which is often accompanied by the stomach drop. If you’re a hater of this feeling, let your instructor know beforehand. Your instructor will have to make some turns under the canopy in order to land, but they’ll be able to take it easy on ya if you let them know it’s not your jam! On the other hand, if you’re a lover of that whooshing feeling in your belly (ew), let your instructor know! They’re guaranteed to put the spinny swings at the fair to shame. 

Is Skydiving As Scary As It Seems? 

Have you ever seen a picture of someone skydiving who isn’t smiling? We’ll wait … skydiving is much more than physically flinging your body from an airplane; it’s an experience that will stick with you for the rest of your life! There are very few times in life where the joy that skydiving brings can be experienced. Skydiving brings on an influx of happy chemicals (like serotonin and dopamine), and that combined with the incredibly welcoming community is why people keep on jumpin’. 

What does it feel like to skydive for the first time? Book your tandem today and come find out! If you have any other questions or concerns, please do reach out – we are here to support you!

The post What Does Tandem Skydiving Feel Like? appeared first on Start Skydiving.

It’s All About Timing

Let’s first ask, “When should I eat before skydiving?” Because timing is critical! We recommend that every first time jumper eat as they typically would on any normal day – even though skydiving will be the best day of their freakin’ life! If your skydive is scheduled for noon, please don’t stuff your pie hole with the entirety of a KFC Bottomless Bargain Bucket at 11:30. It’s a safe bet to stop eating approximately an hour before the jump and to taper off throughout the day; start your day with a bigger meal and move onto smaller snacks leading up to the jump.  

What To Eat Before The Jump 

Think of it this way: Your adrenaline (and therefore, your heart rate) will be through the roof, you’ll be in a crowded airplane, you’ll fall through the sky at 120mph, then you’ll have a parachute ride back to earth. What would you like to have in your stomach while doing all that? Going skydiving for the first time brings enough change as it is, so we don’t want to mess with your diet too much and throw your body for a loop. That being said, if your typical morning consists of two All-Star Breakfasts from Waffle House (yum!) maybe just cut back to one on the morning of your jump. 

Try to avoid anything that typically doesn’t agree with you. For example, if you’re lactose intolerant but commonly eat cheese because “It DoEsN’t MaKe Me FeEl ThAt BaD,” let’s dive into the dairy after your jump. We generally suggest avoiding anything super duper fried or “heavy,” and tend to opt for cold cuts, granola bars, smoothies … anything that’s nutritious and delicious and easy on the breadbasket. 

Can You Drink Before Skydiving? 

Good ole H2O is your friend before skydiving! If you’re referencing another type of popular beverage – that sounds a lot like liquor *wink wink* – it is prohibited prior to jumping. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) along with the United States Parachute Association (USPA) make up the governing bodies for skydivers. They strictly prohibit anyone from skydiving within 8 hours after consuming any alcohol. We’re going to take this a step further and push you to not drink the day/night before your jump at all. Why? We want you to have the best time of your life, and losing your PBR from the night before all over yourself (and your instructor!) is not conducive for a very fun time. 

Eating And Staying Hydrated Is Important: Why? 

When we go skydiving, especially for the first time, our bodies are working in overdrive. Your body and mind have to be prepared to endure the newness of everything that happens when you jump. What do we mean? Physically: Your body has never experienced flying in a jump plane, leaping from the open door into freefall, and flying around under a canopy. It’s a lot! Mentally: Skydiving is special because it brings an influx of exciting chemicals into our bodies, including serotonin, dopamine, and adrenaline. In order to adjust for this rush of happy chemicals, your body needs to be ready. If you’re dehydrated and hungry your body will have a tougher time balancing itself out. 

Neglecting to eat and drink sufficiently may result in crashing blood sugar and dehydration. This can leave you feeling jittery, tired, anxious, nauseous, and overall yucky, which is what we’re trying to avoid! 

Wait, Is Skydiving Going To Make Me Sick!? 

Getting motion sick while skydiving is not as common as people make it out to be. If you’re prone to motion sickness and nervously wondering, “Should I skydive!?” Don’t worry. If you take steps to stay nourished throughout the day and let your instructor know beforehand, you’ll be golden. The key thing here is to tell your instructor before the skydive. 

During the briefing, they’ll ask you if you have any questions, this is your time to shine! If your instructor knows about your struggles with motion sickness, they’ll be able to fly the parachute in the calmest possible way to avoid any tingles in the tummy. 99% of the time, people who are cursed with getting sick from a skydive didn’t eat anything that day thinking it would mean they have nothing to throw up – don’t be this person! 

We would like to note that if you do happen to succumb to motion sickness, it will be okay! You’re in good hands here, it’s nothing we haven’t seen before, and it will still be the best day ever. 

Start your pre-jump prep by booking your skydive today! Please reach out to us with any further questions. We look forward to seeing you!

The post Is It OK To Eat Before Skydiving? appeared first on Start Skydiving.

Of course, accidents do happen in extreme sports. But accidents can happen anywhere. Based on statistics, skydiving is actually safer than driving in a car! Something you probably do every day. How’s that to quell your fear?

Still nervous? Fear is a completely natural reaction to doing something like falling toward the earth at 120 mph – especially if you have a fear of heights! But you can rest assured that thanks to advancements in equipment and training, the sport of skydiving is a whole lot safer than it used to be. Combine that with the safety precautions taken by dropzone owners and staff, and you’ve got a pretty good chance of having nothing but the best time of your life! 

The Numbers

Let’s start with the cold hard facts. The United States Parachute Association (USPA) tracks the safety record of skydiving companies on an annual basis and reports the results publicly. There are no secrets when it comes to current (or past) incident reports, so the proof is on the page when we say that skydiving has gotten increasingly more safe over the years. 

Before you take a look at the data and see for yourself, keep in mind that these stats include all jumps – so tandem jumps, student jumps, and jumps by licensed skydivers. The majority of deaths occur within the licensed skydiver community. They fly small, aggressive parachutes and sometimes licensed jumpers – oftentimes highly experienced jumpers – push their limits too far. Considering a 10 year average, there is one fatality for every 500,000 tandem jumps annually.

Comparing data in five-year increments from the last 20 years, the number of annual jumps has consistently increased and the number of fatalities has decreased. 

Training

Becoming a skydiver requires an immense amount of training. And becoming an instructor demands even more commitment. By the time a skydiver reaches the level of strapping a first-time jumper to their body and leaving an airplane, they’ve gained extensive knowledge and experience. 

Instructor qualifications are no joke. As per the USPA, the requirements to become a certified skydiving instructor are as follows:

• Logging at least 500 jumps
• Earning a USPA D license
• Accruing a minimum of 3 years experience in the sport
• Possessing a current FAA Class III Flight Medical Certificate
• Completing the USPA tandem instructor rating certification program

Bonus: Some instructor roles even require a certain amount of time spent in freefall. 

But training isn’t just for the pros. Every single skydiver, whether they have 10 jumps to 10,010 jumps, is constantly practicing and learning. And not just the fun stuff. Some of the most important training focuses on what to do in the event of something going wrong. 

Emergency procedures are consistent across every experience level and skydiving destination. No matter who or where you are, you learn the same procedure for dealing with problems in the sky. That consistency means that teaching techniques are clear, successful application can be easily measured, and improvements can be made across the board. 

It’s important to note that this standard of training didn’t just happen overnight. Skydiving has been around for more than half a century, and that time has allowed the culture to grow. As a community, we’ve been focused on learning from our mistakes and improving our approach over the many years we’ve been falling through the sky. 

Equipment

If you think safety and training have come a long way in the last 50 years, wait until you hear about the equipment! The parachutes that skydivers are jumping nowadays are on the cutting edge of research and development. New technology is being introduced all the time, with both safety and performance in mind. 

For comparison, the stuff skydivers used to jump in the old days was often referred to as “gutter gear.” We probably don’t have to tell you this, but that’s not exactly the kind of thing you want to bet your life on. 

In the early days, there was no industry specifically dedicated to sport skydiving like there is today. So jumpers got their gear from the only place they could: military surplus. Some of them would even make DIY adjustments to the gear, like cutting holes in the parachutes to alter the performance. (Yikes!)

All we have to say about that is thank you to those who did it so we don’t have to! Because of the experimentation of those early jumpers (with their lives!), the equipment we jump today is the most advanced and safest gear possible.

Innovation has been so rapid and the demand so significant that skydiving gear manufacturers are now an independent industry, competing for the top spot when it comes to safety, performance, and, let’s be honest, looking cool. 

Regulations

Not every safety decision is left up to skydivers themselves. The sport is governed by the USPA, which encourages some cohesion when it comes to acceptable safety practices. Every dropzone must commit to the Group Member Pledge in order to be a USPA affiliated dropzone. 

The regulations set out by the organization include guidance on student jumps, licensing progression, instructor requirements, and jumping (or not jumping) in different weather conditions. And just like the other parts of skydiving, these regulations are evolving all the time. 

The USPA is made up of a board of directors who are voted into their position and make decisions with every skydiver’s best interest in mind. Just like the rest of us, they learn and grow and react to the constantly changing conditions of the sport. 

There’s also the element of legal liability when it comes to skydiving. Not only do USPA member dropzones follow every regulation to mitigate legal risk, they also require all students and skydivers to be the age of legal majority and to sign a waiver. If you can’t legally sign a contract, you can’t jump out of an airplane. This ensures that every person who makes a skydive is truly able to decide for themselves if the risk is worth the reward. 

If skydiving is worth it to you, come jump with us – there’s nothing on this planet as life-changing as human flight!! 

The post Is Skydiving Safe? appeared first on Start Skydiving.

Skydiving is a complex activity that comes with calculated risk. And it’s like nothing your brain or body has ever experienced before. That’s why making your first skydive with a qualified tandem instructor is so important. 

Your skydiving instructor is a pro. They’ve gone through countless hours of rigorous training and practice to meet the elite tandem instructor requirements. It’s no cakewalk to become a skydive instructor. They’ve earned the privilege to take you out of an airplane, and they revel in that experience as much as the opportunity to share the sky with their students. 

Every United States Parachute Association (USPA) rated tandem instructor has to meet a certain set of prerequisites before they can even enter a training program. Once they are qualified, they then have to complete a series of written and practical tests to prove they are up to the challenge. 

But that’s not all. Even once they are certified, skydiving instructors are held to certain currency standards that ensure they are making enough jumps every year to stay up to date and safe in the sky. Not to mention they have to pass Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) medical clearance on a regular basis. 

Let’s take a look at what tandem instructors go through before they get to take you and your epic skydive. 

Tandem Instructor Requirements

To become a tandem instructor, as mandated by the USPA, you are – at a minimum – required to:

• Be 18 years of age
• Log at least 500 jumps
• Have 3 years experience in the sport
• Have your USPA D-license or foreign equivalent
• Hold a coach rating
• Have your FAA Class III Flight Medical Certificate or foreign equivalent
• Complete USPA tandem instructor rating certification program

And this is just the bare minimum. A lot of tandem instructors are qualified above and beyond these requirements before they become an instructor. 

Practice Makes Perfect

In order to meet all of these requirements, prospective tandem instructors put in a lot of practice. There are many different ways to prepare for a tandem rating, but one thing’s for certain, every instructor has paid their dues. There’s too much on the line to waltz into a certification program without having a ton of practical experience under their belt. 

One foundation all tandem instructors have in common is a coach rating. Holding a coach rating is one of the prerequisites for taking the tandem course. The coach rating allows skydivers who haven’t yet met the requirements of the instructor ratings to learn the ropes of teaching. Coaches work with solo students to help them learn skills and achieve their first skydiving license. 

That means that before your instructor even stepped foot in a tandem rating course, they were teaching students and making jumps with keeping people safe in mind. 

Knowledge

With all that practice and studying to get certified, tandem instructors pick up a lot of knowledge. Many of them even hold other instructional ratings. This means that the person you’re trusting with your life has a head full of useful information about jumping out of airplanes. And how to handle any issues should they arise. 

Tandem instructors are able to use their wealth of knowledge to prepare for any scenario they might come across on any skydive. Both good and … not so good. They can tell you everything you’d want to know about your skydive, and keep you in good hands all the whole way down. 

And, don’t forget, they were once a tandem student, too! They know what it’s like to be in your shoes. Everyone did their very first skydive at some point, even instructors. They’re able to use this history and experience to ensure that your first skydive is as memorable as theirs was. 

Customer Service

Tandem instructors are also pros at being personable. Jumping out of an airplane isn’t the only part of the skydiving experience. There’s the training, the waiting, the ride up in the plane. Being able to provide a calm and supportive atmosphere for each and every student is all part of being a good instructor. 

Communicating clearly and staying calm, cool, and collected is all part of the job. A tandem instructor has to be able to execute with precision in the air and on the ground. What good is an instructor who can jump but can’t teach? It’s right there in the name! Your tandem instructor has put as much time into learning how to be an effective trainer and communicator as they have into learning the ins and outs of tandem skydiving. 

Of all the things to stress about the day of your skydive, your instructor doesn’t have to be one of them. Enjoy your jump knowing that you’re in qualified hands!

The post How Qualified is my Instructor? appeared first on Start Skydiving.

Skydiving preparation can actually be broken down into a few, easy-to-digest categories – and how to mentally prepare for skydiving is one of the most important ones. Sure, skydiving is a physical activity with very real effects on your body, but your mind is the biggest barrier to consider. After that, everything else is easy peasy! 

From what to do (and not to do) the night before your jump to what to bring with you to the dropzone, knowing how to prepare for skydiving comes down to understanding what jump day will look like. In this short guide, we’ll give you a rundown of how to prepare to skydive so you’ll feel confident and empowered before you even get to the dropzone! 

Mental Preparation

Your brain is the epicenter of all of your emotions, including the ones you’ll feel while skydiving. Happiness, excitement, confidence, and fear (especially fear). Fear can have a significant effect on the brain and body, and can be difficult to overcome. That’s why knowing how to deal with fear before jump day will make the whole process a lot more fun. 

So, how do we quiet that little voice in our head reminding us to be afraid? Eliminate the unknown! The internet is an endless resource of information and media. Spend some time online watching videos and reading up on other people’s skydiving experiences. Just think about how much better you’ll feel after getting a step-by-step glimpse of the process! 

It can also be helpful to read reviews. First-hand accounts can go a long way in making you more comfortable with what you’re about to do. And hearing what others have to say about the dropzone you’re trusting with your first skydive will give you a sense of the level of service you can expect on this most important of days!

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with what’s to come, it’s time to dig into that brain a little bit. Give yourself the gift of mediation. Meet the moment as a friend … reflect on what you’ve seen and heard and imagine leaving an airplane mid-flight. Visualize yourself skydiving and having the time of your life. Set the expectation that the jump will be amazing, and it will be! 

Practice Makes Perfect!

Alright, so you’ve got your mind right. How about your body? Skydiving will put you in all sorts of different positions, and maybe even some you’ve never been in. Crouching, crawling, scooting, and arching are all regular occurrences when jumping from an airplane. Stretch your muscles and loosen up those joints. 

The most important position you’ll find yourself in during your skydive is called the arch position. Your instructor will go over this with you in detail, but you can get a little practice in ahead of time. There’s nothing wrong with being a teacher’s pet with something like jumping out of an airplane! 

When you’re in your arch, you’re going to look a little bit like a banana. You’ll be falling through the sky on your belly, and your hips will be the lowest point on your body. Your arms and legs will be pulled up and out so that they are a little bit higher than your hips. 

Try this at home before you come to the dropzone. Lay on the ground on your belly and push your hips down. At the same time, lift your shoulders and thighs off the ground so that your hips are the only part making contact with the floor. You’re doing it! See? We told you it would be easy! 

Self Care

There are a few best practices to consider in order to make your jump day straight-up epic. 

Eat a normal meal before you come to the dropzone. Nerves might make it difficult, but you’ll be happy you ate in the long run. No one’s ever performed their best on an empty stomach. 

Drink plenty of water, too. Dehydration is the mega-enemy of good times. Not having enough water on board will encourage dizziness and a feeling of instability. Drink up!

Even the night before is important. Don’t go out partying and drinking, as much as you might want to celebrate this incredible milestone or lock in some liquid courage. Save the festivities for after you’ve landed. Being well-rested (and not hungover) will make your jump so much more enjoyable. 

What to Bring

Now that you’ve done all of this mental and physical work, the last thing to consider is what to bring on the day of your jump. First and foremost, don’t forget your valid, government-issued photo ID! You must provide proof that you are at least 18 years of age. No ID, no jump – no kidding! 

Snacks and water are also a must for a day at the dropzone. You want to stay fed and hydrated before your jump so that you can perform as well as you prepared. The adrenaline that comes with jumping out of an airplane puts your body and brain through a lot. Make sure you’re setting yourself up for success.

And don’t forget to bring your questions! Your instructor is there to teach you what you need to know, and to help you feel comfortable and ready for awesomeness. Instructors love curious students! It means you’re as excited about skydiving as we are. Don’t be afraid to ask questions before, during (although, not during freefall!), and after your skydive – there are no stupid questions. This is your day.

Feeling prepared? Cool. Ready? Set. Let’s GO!!!! Book your first jump today and show us what you’re made of! Blue skies.

The post Tandem Skydiving: How to Prepare appeared first on Start Skydiving.