What to Expect on Your Tandem Jump

You’ve taken the exciting first step and booked your skydive! The anticipation is building, but you’ve got a few questions as the big day approaches: What should I expect when skydiving? How can I prepare for a tandem skydive? And wait – what exactly is the meaning of tandem skydiving? Don’t worry! This guide will cover everything you need to know to help you feel prepared and confident for your first-time parachute jump. 

Tandem Skydiving: What Is It? 

Tandem skydiving is the go-to choice for first-time skydivers. A tandem skydive, by definition, is a skydive where you are physically harnessed to an experienced instructor under the same parachute system. Though your instructor handles the bulk of the technical work, you’re still an active participant in the jump. Your job? Follow instructions, enjoy the ride, and savor the thrill of freefalling through the sky!

What to Expect On Your Tandem Jump

Feeling a mix of excitement and nerves is normal for first-time skydivers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect when skydiving for the first time: 

Before You Arrive: Pre-Jump Prep

A little preparation goes a long way to making your jump a fantastic experience and helping ease that first-time skydiver anxiety:

• Get a good night’s sleep to ensure you’re rested and alert.
• Eat a balanced meal and stay hydrated, but avoid heavy, greasy foods.
• Skip the alcohol or drugs – save the celebration for after your jump.
• Plan your route to the dropzone and give yourself plenty of time to arrive early. Running late only adds unnecessary stress!

Upon Arrival at the Dropzone 

When you arrive, check in with our team, and don’t forget to bring your valid government-issued photo ID – no ID, no jump! The first order of business is completing waivers. It’s the least exciting part, but it’s important to get it out of the way.

Next, you’ll decide whether to purchase a video package of your skydive. Pro tip: go for it! You only get one first jump, and having a video to relive the experience is 100% worth it.

Meet Your Tandem Instructor 

Once the paperwork is done, it’s time to meet your instructor. This is where the fun really begins! It’s reassuring to know that tandem instructors are highly qualified – they must:

• Complete a minimum of 500 skydives
• Have at least three years of experience in the sport
• Successfully pass a certified Tandem Instructor rating course

Your instructor will provide you with detailed instructions and training for your jump. They’ll explain how the harness works, how to exit the plane, what to do during freefall, and how to position your body for landing. Pay attention, and don’t hesitate to ask questions – they’ll review everything multiple times to ensure you feel confident. 

Climbing to Altitude

The moment you’ve been waiting for is here! You’ll board the aircraft with your instructor and climb to altitude. Your tandem skydive will happen from 10,000 feet, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking views. 

It’s normal for your nerves to peak during the ride up, but take a deep breath and stay present. Look out the window – you’ll see glittering Lake Okeechobee, the patchwork of Florida’s landscape, and maybe even wildlife below. 

As you approach jump altitude, your instructor will secure the harness connections, double-check everything, and prepare you for exit! 

The Jump: Freefall & Canopy Ride

Get ready for an unforgettable adrenaline rush! The door opens, the wind rushes in, and suddenly you’re freefalling through the sky at speeds of up to 120 mph!! This heart-pounding experience lasts about 40 seconds, and it feels both thrilling and surprisingly serene at the same time!

At around 5,000 feet, your instructor will deploy the parachute and you’ll transition into a gentle, peaceful canopy ride. This is the perfect time to take in the stunning views – look for wildlife like fish jumping in the lake or alligators basking in the sun. If you’re local, you might even be able to spot your own house!

The Landing & Post-Jump Bliss

As you glide back to the ground, your instructor will guide the parachute to a soft landing. Once you touch down, you’ll likely feel a mix of exhilaration, pride, and awe – it’s a moment you’ll never forget.

But be warned: post-jump blues are real! Skydiving is such a high-energy experience that you may find yourself wanting to relive it immediately. The good news? You can! Watch your video, share it with friends and family, or even start planning your next jump. Who knows? You might catch the skydiving bug and decide to pursue your A license to jump solo!

Are You Ready to Take the Leap?

Skydiving is an incredible adventure that pushes your limits and rewards you with memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s the adrenaline of freefall or the beauty of the view from above, your tandem jump will be an experience like no other.

So, are you ready to take the leap? Book your tandem skydive today, and let’s make it happen!