Can you achieve a good arch as a tandem student?

[Spudmuffin 0]

What is the best way for a tandem student to work on their exits? I recently went on my first tandem jump. My instructor gave us a 60 second lesson on things...thrust your middle out, keep your arms on your shoulder straps, wave at the camera, etc.

While watching my video, I noticed that it took me about 5 seconds to get into the right position. My legs kind of dangled a bit and it looks like I did a rather vertical jump out of the plane. (Definitely forgot to thrust.) One problem was that I couldn't here him on his "ready, set, go" and the other I can probably attribute to the enormous "WOW" factor of one's first jump.

Anyhow, I'm looking forward to my next jump and working on my exit. In thinking about the logistics of it, I just fear I'm going to head-butt my instructor if I arch my back too much and keep my chin up too high. Is the movement supposed to be kind of a bellyflop out of the plane? I did notice that once he had me unfurl my arms, my legs automatically went to (what looked like to me) a better position...bent and relaxed. Also I noticed that all of the instructors had a real "leg-high" arch while in freefall. (Don't you love my terminology?) Is that something you develop when you start doing solo jumps or is it something you can work on in tandem?

As always, any input would be greatly appreciated!

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[douwanto 22]

Sounds like you were using a vector 11 system which puts the instructor and student leg high.
You can practice your arch by lying on the floor and arch. chest off the floor elbows up and bent at 90% hands by your ears.knees up bent slightly toes pointed and feet shoulder width.
hold it hold it hold it.
relax do it again and again and again.

Do what your instructor tells you. dont adlib or add to his instructions.He should put your head on his shoulder for exit to avoid the broken face.

Hope this helpes
Chris

Uncle/GrandPapa Whit
Unico Rodriguez # 245
Muff Brother # 2421

[Spudmuffin 0]

Thanks very much, Chris.

I think I'll go do those back arches instead of pilates tonight. Sounds like they would feel good on my back regardless.

I'm going on my second jump this weekend and will listen to what my instructor tells me. He'll probably be a bit more thorough in his explanations since I'll be starting the TAF progression instead of just going for a ride.

Thanks again!

Mandy

[AggieDave 6]

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I'm going on my second jump this weekend and will listen to what my instructor tells me. He'll probably be a bit more thorough in his explanations since I'll be starting the TAF progression instead of just going for a ride.

Always feel free to tell your instructor about your concern about the arching. That will only help her/him help you learn.

Some harnesses make it harder then others for the student to achieve a "true" arch, so I wouldn't worry too much about it and talk to your instructor.

Oh, good luck and enjoy your next jump!

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

[Spudmuffin 0]

Thanks very much, Dave. I can't wait until this weekend!

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