How to Prepare for Skydiving in South Florida

We know you’re excited for your first skydive! Along with that excitement comes some apprehension and nerves. Trust us – we totally get it. Below is a helpful guide to prepare you for your tandem skydive and help make you feel more confident and ready for your upcoming Southern Florida adventure at Skydive Palm Beach! Here are a few tips on how to prepare yourself for skydiving.

 Choose Your Location

The facility you choose will have a huge impact on your experience. You want to pick a location with a good atmosphere and one that resonates with you.

• Location matters: Pick a centrally located spot that’s easy to reach. Consider nearby attractions to maximize your day. Skydive Palm Beach, situated in Pahokee on the beautiful shores of Lake Okeechobee, is an excellent option. We’re about an hour’s drive from West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Port St. Lucie, and Boca Raton. You can get to us from Miami, Vero Beach, and Fort Myers in less than two hours!

• Professional Atmosphere: Check websites and read reviews. How do past students feel about their experience? Do they feel safe and valued or like just another number?

Know What to Expect

Knowing what to expect on your first skydive will help ease the nerves. Plan to spend at least two hours with us, though the time will increase for larger groups and it does not account for unexpected delays, such as weather. 

After making your reservation, you will receive an arrival time in your confirmation email. At check-in, we’ll verify your ID, process payment, and complete waivers. You’ll then meet your instructors, get geared up, and receive training before hopping on the aircraft and enjoying the breathtaking views on the ride to altitude.

Then, we jump! 

You’ll be soaring toward the earth at speeds of up to 120 mph, experiencing freefall for approximately 40 seconds. Once the canopy opens, you’ll float peacefully to the ground, overlooking beautiful sites like Lake Okeechobee, The Glades, and Lion Country Safari, just to name a few.

Prepare for that Florida Heat

How do I prepare my body for skydiving? Good physical health is essential. It’s also important to ensure we plan appropriately for the Florida heat.

• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial for your skydive. Start hydrating the day before.

•  Eat well: Have a healthy balanced meal before you arrive to sustain you through the adrenaline rush, as if preparing for a workout.

• Dress Appropriately: While it may be warm on the ground, the cooler temperatures above may be refreshing. When it comes to what to wear, you will want to wear something that allows mobility, is comfortable, and weather-appropriate, and be sure to opt for close-toed tennis shoes.

Prepare Your Mind

Preparing yourself mentally is just as important as preparing yourself physically. Skydiving is an exhilarating experience, and it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Here are some tips for how to mentally prepare for skydiving:

• Focus on your breathing: Deep, steady breaths can help calm your nerves. Practice deep breathing before and during your skydive. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help reduce anxiety and keep you focused.

• Visualize Success: Visualization is a powerful tool. Close your eyes and imagine yourself having a smooth, enjoyable jump. Picture the thrill of freefall, the beauty of the scenery, and a sense of accomplishment when you land. Positive visualization can boost your confidence and reduce nervousness.

• Stay in the Moment: It’s easy to let your mind race with ‘what-ifs’ but try to stay present. Focus on each step as it comes – getting geared up, listening to your instructor, boarding the plane. Taking it one step at a time can make the experience less overwhelming.

• Talk to Your Instructor: Your instructor is here to help you feel safe and prepared. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns you might have. They can provide reassurance and guidance, helping to ease your nerves.

Celebrate Your Achievement

Jumping out of a plane takes guts! Celebrate your milestone:

•  Reflect on your Experience:  Watch your video and relive the thrill! Take some ground photos to cherish and share.

• Share Your Experience:  Introduce friends to this incredible sport.  

• Leave a review: If you had a great time, please consider leaving us a review! Feedback helps us improve and inform others.

Now that you know how to prepare for skydiving, we hope we’ve helped ease your nerves. Skydiving is unlike anything you will ever experience. Describing it doesn’t do it justice – you’ll understand once you land!

Haven’t booked yet? We can help you with that! Contact us today or book your jump online – and then prepare for the experience of your life! Blue skies!