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Step 1
Take specialized training. Skysurfing is more than just freestyling and there are different techniques and safety precautions to know. Skydiving schools offer lessons that can help novices prepare by learning the basics of skysurfing in a quick, safe way. Look for a certified school with certified coaches.
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Step 2
Make sure your skydiving license is in order. Anyone preparing for a first attempt at skysurfing must have at least a Class A skydiving license and be able to demonstrate their knowledge of the basics. To get a Class A license, you have to be past the student stage, be a jump master, have participated in competitions, done free falls and water jumps and able to pack your own main parachute.
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Step 3
Be in the best physical condition possible. Skysurfing makes demands on your mind and body that regular free falling and even freestyling don't come close to, because you have to control and maneuver the board to do all those amazing tricks without hurting yourself or others. And preparing for your first jump includes getting your body ready, not just the equipment.
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Step 4
Get the right equipment for your skill level. Beginners should use shorter boards than more experienced skysurfers as the shorter ones are easier to control. You'll also need to invest in bindings and toe loops to keep the board snugly attached to your feet. Also remember to use the same protective gear as in regular skydiving, especially a helmet.
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Step 5
Brush up on all the skydiving basics: understanding the aircraft's flight path, controlling your fall, not running into other fliers, having a properly packed parachute and emergency chute and using an audio/visual altimeter.
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Step 6
Watch videos of skysurfing pros. You can find videos lots of places on the Web and sometimes at skydiving equipment stores. See how it's supposed to be done! Get familiar with the moves by studying others in the act.
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Step 7
Consider practicing in a vertical wind tunnel. A company called Sky Venture has constructed tunnels for use by skydivers, along with the general public, in many places across the U.S. and abroad. And there are many other wind tunnel providers listed online.
