What To Expect
Your First Skydiving Experience
Thinking about making your first jump? Here’s what your day at Piedmont Skydiving will look like – from arrival to high-fives after landing. We’ve laid out a step-by-step skydiving guide so you’ll know what to bring, what to wear, and how the experience unfolds.
The Non-Negotiables
Skydiving Requirements
Before booking your tandem skydive, make sure you meet the basics:
-
Age:
18+ on jump day; bring valid, government-issued photo identification
-
Weight:
Up to 230 lbs including clothing/shoes; over 200 lbs must be proportionally fit
-
Health & Fitness:
Able to handle moderate activity; similar to climbing stairs or jogging
-
Medical Concerns:
Talk with your doctor; certain issues may require a doctor’s note
Got the greenlight?
Prep Like a Pro
Plan Ahead
A little preparation makes for a smoother, more fun jump day.
-
Get Rest:
Get a good night’s rest so you can get the most from your jump
Don’t drink the night before; it’s illegal to skydive under the influence (and it sucks)
-
Wear:
Comfy, weather-appropriate clothes and lace-up sneakers
Don’t wear anything baggy that’ll whip around; no boots, sandals, slides, or heels
-
Bring:
Photo ID, payment, snacks and water, doctor’s note (if applicable)
Don’t bring alcohol, jewelry and other valuables, anything that’ll fly off, pets
-
Eat & Hydrate:
Have a normal meal, drink plenty of water; pack a cooler
Don’t eat too little or too much and avoid greasy foods; skip alcohol entirely
Training & Preparation
Before Takeoff
Get ready to meet your instructor and learn the ropes!
-
Meet & Greet:
Your instructor will guide you from start to finish
-
Brief Training:
Learn exit, body position, and landing basics
-
Gear Up:
Get fitted with a harness and goggles
-
Ask & Tell:
Ask all your questions and share important info
The Main Event!
Time to Fly
Here’s how YOUR jump will unfold!
-
Climb to Altitude:
Board the plane and head to 12,500 ft or 17,500 ft
-
Freefall:
Reach speeds up to 120 mph – freefall for ~40 to 80 seconds
-
Canopy Ride:
Enjoy 4-7 minutes of panoramic views under parachute
-
Landing:
Touch down and celebrate – you just made a skydive!!!
Find the Right Fit
How to Choose a Dropzone
If you’re comparing DZs, keep these details in mind:
-
USPA Affiliation:
Ensures national training and safety standards
-
Reviews:
Learn from other jumpers’ experiences; consistency is key
-
Altitude Choices:
Higher jumps = longer freefall and bigger views
-
Offerings:
Media packages, learn to skydive program, events
-
Vibe Check:
Check out photos on social media, call or visit the DZ
-
Jump Ship:
Bigger plane = more pals in the air, faster to altitude
Ready to unleash your inner wild child?
There’s nothing on this planet more exhilarating than skydiving. Experience the freedom of human flight!
