Q&A for How to Skydive for the First Time

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When landing, is it better to run or land flat on your butt?

Community Answer

Once you've reached about 20 feet above ground, form your body into an L-shape, with legs up. Once you're low enough, bring your legs down into a running prep. When your feet are on the ground, lean slightly back into a slide or begin running, depending on how low you are.

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Is it safer to fall onto land or water?

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Landing on the water would be very dangerous. The landing could be rough, causing you to panic in the water and get tangled up in the chute. The chute could also fill with water and cause you to sink. Also, hitting the water at such a high speed could be very painful. If you have a choice, always opt for land.

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Question

What is the maximum weight for skydiving?

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It depends on the person taking you up, but generally, the weight limit for tandem skydiving is 280 lbs.; for AFF skydiving, the limit is 240 lbs. You may be charged extra for higher weights.

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Question

Do I need a license to skydive?

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To skydive alone, you do. After making two tandem skydives, you can start what is called the “Accelerated Free Fall” program. You must complete the seven level AFF program before you can jump solo. The "A" license will allow you to skydive at most USPA member drop zones by yourself or with your friends.

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Can a 70 year old man with high blood pressure schedule a skydive?

Community Answer

Ask your doctor before you schedule anything, just to be sure.

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Question

Why can't I jump if I am overweight?

Community Answer

It is because of the canopy manufacture's weight restrictions. A canopy is sized based on the weight as well as the experience of the jumper.

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How am I supposed to count after pulling the cord?

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Count? There's no need to count -- you or your instructor will wear an altimeter and at a certain altitude, you or the instructor will deploy the canopy. Don't pull it, throw it.

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How old do I have to be?

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You can do it at 12 years old if your parents sign a document giving you permission. If they won't sign, you have to wait until you're 18.

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What are the height and weight requirements for skydiving?

Community Answer

Height doesn't matter, and as long as you not 300+lbs, you should be fine. More money could be charged for more weight though. Ask at the local skydiving school for their weight limits and costs.

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Question

Can you skydive from space?

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Community Answer

Similar to skydiving, space diving is the act of jumping from an aircraft or spacecraft in near space and falling towards Earth. The Kármán line is a common definition as to where space begins, 100 km (62 mi) above sea level.

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What is the next step after AFF in getting certified?

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Community Answer

Getting a license. After you graduate from AFF and jump a total of 25 times, you'll be eligible to apply for the USPA's skydiving A license. Once you've logged no less than fifty skydives, you're eligible to apply for the USPA's B license, the you can go for C and D licenses.

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