How to Prepare For Your First Tandem Skydiving

So you are thinking of going skydiving, huh? If you are planning to go for your first tandem skydiving experience, but you are feeling a little doubtful about it, don't worry, it's absolutely common for first time jumpers to feel nervous and have doubts about making this decision. But, you have done your first smart decision about going skydiving - researching about it! Hopefully, these tips will give you a clear idea of what to do and what to expect before your jump and help you decide if you are ready for one hell of a ride!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Guts!

1. First, ask yourself, 'am I going to back out of this later or do I really want to do this no matter what?'

2. If you are mentally ready to jump, continue with the following steps.

3. Find out the price of the tandem jump and of video from your skydiving center of preference. (I would recommend to get a video ... I mean, you will be jumping out of a plane! Wouldn't you want to see yourself pursuing this?) Put aside some money for it since it can be costly. Make an appointment ahead of time.

4. On the day of your skydive, have a good breakfast meal if your jump is early in the day. Also have a good meal at least 1-2 hours before your jump if the jump is later in the day.

5. Be comfortable. You can wear a t-shirt, jeans, shorts, sport pants, sneakers. No jewelry.

6. Gather as many people as you can to go with you. It's always good to have your friends as your support group. It will make your experience a more memorable and exciting one. Having company will also ease the anxiety that you may get while you are waiting long hours for your turn to jump.

7. Leave all your carry-on stuff in your car or in a safe place since you won't be taking it with you on the plane.

8. Don't forget to be crazy on your video and most importantly enjoy every single moment of this.

9. During the plane ride (in my opinion, this is when all the nerves kick in!) listen and follow everything that your instructor is telling you. Just relax, loosen up, and enjoy the nervousness and excitement that you will most probably feel at this moment.

10. Moments before the jump, start swallowing to clear out your ears so you can easily adjust to the pressure and avoid earache while freefalling. It's recommended to not jump while you have a cold.

11. Once you are all set to jump out, embrace this moment because there is nothing like your first jump experience.

12. Remember to keep your eyes open the whole way.

13. Have fun. The first step out is the best!

[maryanne09]

on 9/8/2009 Great article on How to Prepare For Your First Tandem Skydiving! 5*'s and a recommend! :o)