Another simple question from a newbie.

[dakotazout 0]

Hi guys, in a week or so me and a few of my friends are going to do a tandem jump, it's the first time for all of us.

I know you probably get plenty of questions asking what it's like, but I have one particular inquiry which I couldn't find anwsered anywhere.

When you first deploy the parachute, how harsh is the deceleration? Do you get thrown around a lot or is it somewhat gradual?

On a related note, does anyone know what are (or where I can get) statistics about the speeds one is going during a tandem freefall/while one is gliding with the parachute?

Thanks.

[AggieDave 6]

Quote

When you first deploy the parachute, how harsh is the deceleration? Do you get thrown around a lot or is it somewhat gradual?

Yes.

What do I mean by that? I mean that you're taking nearly 400 sq ft of fabric with 20ft of lines and tossing it into the wind with nearly 500lbs at the end of the lines. Most of the time the openings aren't that bad, but there are enough variables that sometimes the openings will snap open or shake you around. That is one of those things that, for obvious reasons, we take care to pack the main so that it opens well; however, it doesn't always come out that way.

Quote

On a related note, does anyone know what are (or where I can get) statistics about the speeds one is going during a tandem freefall/while one is gliding with the parachute?

Terminal Velocity is a bit misunderstood outside of the skydiving community when it relates to skydiving. It depends on the total weight vs. surface area vs. drag. Typically with a tandem skydive you can expect to see a vertical speed with the drogue deployed of anywhere from 110mph to 130mph. It depends on your size, your instructor's size, if you're wearing a jumpsuit and your instructor's jumpsuit.

Undercanopy it still comes down to suspended weight. On average you can expect to see a decent rate of about 20ft per second. Sometimes a bit more, sometimes a bit less.

Enjoy your first skydive! Besure to get video, you will never ever do your first skydive ever again. Also, if you think the first skydive is fun, come back to do a second one and complete a Category A tandem (if your DZ offers them) or complete an AFF jump. The real fun really starts once you start learning how to fly your body. Most people find that easier to learn after completing a tandem to learn some basics on body position, canopy flight and what to expect.

HAVE FUN!

--"When I die, may I be surrounded by scattered chrome and burning gasoline."

[BelskyBlueEyes 0]

I did my first tandem ever on September 10. I am now signed up next week to start class for getting certified! My jump was awesome, no jerking movements, the straps did not bind me in any painful way or anything. It was incredible! I felt like a leaf floating on the wind when were under canopy. The freefall part was nuts too, in a good way though! It may be a little bit sensory overload, but don't worry, nothing that you can't handle. (it is noisy from the wind, a bit cooler because of the altitude, takes a few seconds for your brain to comprehend "hey, I just jumped out of a plane!!").

Relax and enjoy the ride, it is unlike anything else in life!

Carolyn

[Hayfield 0]

Keep it up Carolyn! You sound like my girlfriend and I one year ago. We're both licensed now and own our own gear. The best part is: it keeps getting better with every jump! Word to the wise-if you're going to go through training and get your A license, bring beer. Little by little you'll meet people at your DZ-depending on size. Later on you'll have more people to jump with and get pointers from. Enjoy yourself and obey your instructors orders as you would the word of God.
Blue Skies all

"Remember the First Commandment: Don't Fuck Up!"
-Crusty Old Pete