Your First Skydiving

For my first jump, I really had no idea what to expect. So I had only seen skydiving on YourTube, or TV (and nothing specifically about tandem jumping). I knew I would be connected to a professional skydiver, and I now describe the tandem attachment as “you’re wearing the instructor like a backpack.”

Tandem Jumping

Tandem jumps are the safest first-jump option available. More than 65% of the first jumps made in the United States are made by tandem jumps. We have found over the years that tandem jumping offers the general public both the safest and the fastest route to making their first jump. Your tandem jump will help you decide quickly whether skydiving is your cup of tea. If your goal is to jump solo and become a skydiver after your tandem you can enroll in our AFF program which has the highest student graduation rate in the Northeast.

Tandem Skydiving Facts

• At most places you must be at least 18 years old (take a valid photo ID), with a weight limit of 225 lbs.
• Loose-fitting clothes are definitely a good idea, as are comfortable, sturdy, fully-attached shoes. No flip flops!
• I recommend choosing a drop zone that supports the United States Parachute Association rules and
  regulations. You can use their Drop Zone Locator to find locations near you.
• Call ahead for a reservation, if you can. However, larger drop zones try to accommodate walk-ins. Prepare to
  spend several hours at the drop zone — sometimes up to half a day, depending on the weather and the staffing
  situation at that site. Feel free to take snacks and bottled drinks (no alcohol), in case vending machines are
  not available.
• Leave all valuables locked inside your car or with a friend on the ground. There may be lockers for your things, but probably not. There will be a place to leave your car keys.
• If you wear glasses or contacts, talk to the staff at the jump site to make sure their goggles will protect your eyewear.
• A couple of jumps ago, I discovered I am becoming more sensitive to motion sickness. For my recent jump, I took a non-drowsy Dramamine and that did the trick.
• You will watch a video about tandem skydiving that describes the process you will soon participate in.