A common question that arises is whether a first-time skydiver needs to do a tandem jump. While it’s not strictly necessary, it is highly recommended, and it aligns with the approach at Skydive Chicago. Here’s why.
A Parallel to Learning to Ride a Motorcycle
When you first ride a motorcycle, you might feel out of your element. It’s common for beginners to start as a passenger during their first few rides.
There are several reasons for this. Riding a motorcycle is different from other activities in ways that can feel intimidating, especially at high speeds. It can be a bit complex, a little risky, and undeniably exciting. At the start, you’re also aware that a mistake could have serious consequences. For these same reasons, we recommend starting with a tandem skydive for your first jump.
An Enhanced Experience and a Better Foundation for Future Progress
Learning to skydive is undoubtedly a challenging experience. It’s normal to feel nervous during your first jump, and those nerves can make it difficult to focus on the finer details. Tandem skydiving allows you to experience your first jump in a more relaxed environment, free from added pressure. This approach not only helps you enjoy the experience more but also provides a solid foundation for your future progression in the sport.
Starting out Tandem Skydiving
Tandem skydiving provides a valuable opportunity to learn the basics of skydiving while minimizing stress. If your goal is to earn your skydiving license, you might be eager to dive directly into the solo freefall program. At Skydive Chicago, our pre-requisites to enter the solo freefall program – the Advanced Freefall Program – is to start out with 2 tandem jumps. The second tandem being within the previous 6 months with us. However, it’s worth noting that our philosophy is jumping straight into AFP isn’t the most effective way to learn.
By completing a tandem jump before starting your AFP course, you’ll gain valuable exposure to the experience of skydiving, allowing you to focus on the details rather than the pressure of handling everything yourself. Your tandem instructor will guide you through every aspect of the jump, from equipment and body position to the nuances of the plane. If you mention your intention to pursue AFP, your instructor will be happy to provide insights and prepare you for the next step.
With this prior experience, you’ll arrive at your skydiving ground school with a wealth of knowledge, giving you a head start as you continue your training.
In conclusion, we recommend that you consider doing a tandem skydive before beginning your AFP course. This approach will accelerate your learning and lay a strong foundation for a successful solo skydiving career. At Skydive Chicago, we’re committed to making your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
