The thrill and exhilaration of skydiving are unrivalled by any other sport. However, it can also pose risks if not approached with caution. That’s why, at iJump, we recognise the significance of being familiar with the requirements for skydiving and ensuring its safe practice.
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Main requirements for skydiving
Prior to jumping from an airplane, it is crucial to be aware of several prerequisites for skydiving. It is vital to understand the various physical, psychological, and equipment requirements, among others, in order to execute a safe and successful skydive. Tandem Skydiving is the fastest and safest way to live the same sensations as an expert skydiver but without the need of previous experience. However it can help with the nerves to inform oneself in a bit more detail about skydiving requirements.
Physical Requirements
Even though almost anyone can go skydiving, you need to meet certain physical requirements. For tandem skydiving we recommend a minimum age of 9 years but there is no age limit to the other direction. As long you are in good general health and physically fit for the activity you can skydive.
Psychological requirements
Skydiving requires the right state of mind to perform the activity. It is important to have a positive attitude, be emotionally stable and have a focused mind.
In addition, it is essential to follow the instructions and safety rules to avoid any kind of injury or accident.
Skydiving Equipment
Skydiving equipment is essential for a safe jump. Depending on the jump you perform the requirement for certain equipment can vary but the basic, mandatory items quite obviously include a parachute container with a main parachute and reserve parachute. An altimeter to measure the height of your descent and protective goggles are other important parts of your skydiving gear. Helmets, gloves and other special skydive clothing depend a lot on the place you jump at and the type of skydive you do.
It is important to ensure that the equipment is in good condition and suitable for the type of skydive to be performed.
Prior preparation and jumping experience
Before jumping, it is important to receive proper training from a certified skydiving instructor. Depending on if you do a tandem skydive or the full course to become a solo jumper the training will be more or less comprehensive.
At iJump we offer tandem skydiving, meaning you are securely connected with a special harness to a highly experienced skydiving instructor, hence you don’t need to know all the details about equipment, techniques or safety rules. The ground training for tandem jumps is comprised of a short briefing explaining and practicing the body positions for exiting the air craft, free fall and landing – and you are ready to go.
Of course if you are wanting to become a solo skydiver it is necessary to complete a much more in depth ground training before making any jump.
Understanding the weather
As you probably know, one of the skydiving requirements is, that the weather conditions are suitable and safe for the plane flight up and parachute flight down. Depending on your jumping experience these requirements may change.
If you do the course to become a solo jumper you will learn about the weather and climate patterns in great detail. To do a tandem skydive you don’t need to know anything about the weather.
Following are the main requirements for skydiving that every enthusiast and person interested in skydiving should have to start their skydiving adventure and do their first jump.
Skydiving Recommendations
In addition to the requirements for skydiving, it is necessary to keep in mind some tips to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Thus, it is advisable to follow the recommendations below:
- Dress comfortably and appropriately for the activity.
- Arrive at the skydiving centre in time for training.
- Stay hydrated and adequately nourished before the jump.
- Follow the instructor’s instructions and respect safety rules.
- FOR TANDEM SKYDIVING: Enjoy the experience without worrying about all the skydiving specifics :)
Skydiving Equipment: Buy or Rent?
You may already know that it is possible to buy or rent skydiving equipment. Now, let’s consider what is preferable:
- If you plan to make skydiving a regular experience, purchasing the equipment is advisable. This can be a suitable long-term investment.
- However, if you only plan to jump once in a while, using rental gear is a more economical option. Be sure to check with the skydiving centre about the options available. At iJump we provide you with state of the art equipment for your tandem jump experience.
Who can’t skydive?
While it is true that there are no strict limitations on who can go skydiving, there are certain medical conditions that may prevent someone from skydiving. Some of these conditions may include:
Cardiac issues, epilepsy, severe respiratory diseases, back problems, among others.
As part of the skydiving requirements, it is advised to consult with a doctor before attempting any jumps, especially if you have any significant medical conditions.
Is there a weight limit as part of the skydiving requirements?
There is a maximum weight limit, which roughly varies between 90 and 120 kg depending on the skydive centre and the type of jump. It is important to respect this limit, as it could affect the safety of the jump.
Why choose to go skydiving?
Skydiving (solo or tandem), is a unique and wonderful experience. Filled with adrenaline, it is an adventure that challenges your senses and pushes you out of your comfort zone.
Performed effectively, fulfilling all the skydive requirements, it provides each person with an opportunity to see a beautiful landscape from a different perspective.
Skydiving is also a way to connect with deeper thoughts and reflections.
Where to do your first skydive?
If you want to go tandem skydiving and you don’t know where to do your first jump Gran Canaria is the perfect destination to do it and iJump is a company specialised in it. With the best island scenery and the ocean as a backdrop, your tandem skydive adventure will be an unbeatable experience.
To do your very first jump it is recommended to opt for tandem skydivng, a very fun and, above all, safe activity to get to know the exciting world of this magnificent sport. When you choose this option, you won’t have to spend days on training; just follow the initial instructions before the jump.
Doing a tandem skydive includes the equipment and your personal instructor so all you need to do is sit back, relax and just enjoy the experience.
Ready for your skydive?
Skydiving is an exciting and unique activity that requires proper preparation and an optimal physical and mental state. It is important to meet all the requirements for skydiving and follow the recommendations.
By doing so, you can ensure a rewarding experience. If you are interested in solo skydiving, it is best to seek out a certified skydiving center, where you will receive in depth ground training before attempting any jumps. At iJump, a certified tandem skydive centre you will be able to test the waters in a beautiful island setting.
