carth 0 #1 August 18, 2003 Hi everyone I decided from my 21st birthday i would go skydiving as its something i've wanted to do for years but never had the means to. I've been looking around and found a place close to my home in ME and now all i have left is one thing to decide (this is where i would love some input). My roomate just got back from his first jump which was a tandem jump. I'd really like to AFF classes but am nervous that it may not be something a first timer should try. would you guys recomend against it? or do you have any other suggestions of things i might not have considered? thank you for any input you can give me Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites a97virago 0 #2 August 18, 2003 My Opinion (for what's it's worth) Doing a tandem first lets you relax, enjoy the ride/view with out the stress of AFF. If you find that you LOVE IT (and I'm sure you will) then proceed onto AFF. I went through Tandem progression (5 tandems, 5 IAF, etc) and I don't know if I would have been all there if I had started out AFF. But that's just me Larry A-43434 Larry A-43434 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Malev 0 #3 August 18, 2003 QuoteI'd really like to AFF classes but am nervous that it may not be something a first timer should try. Different people have different opinions on this, so chances are you'll get a whole load of different answers here. For what its worth, my first jump was my AFF Level 1, and I know this was the best thing for me. There are plenty of people who do AFF without doing a tandem. There are also lots who do one, or even a few, tandems first. Do whatever you feel most comfortable with, and what your instructors recommend, but don't be pressured into doing a tandem just because your mate did. On the other hand, if it makes you feel more comfortable then sure, do one first. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites tombuch 0 #4 August 18, 2003 I suggest a single tandem as your first jump, followed by AFF. The tandem gives you some basic experience, and that makes the AFF ground training easier. Likewise, it gives you a pretty good idea what freefall and the parachute ride will be like on your AFF jump, so that helps you relax in the AFF program. Some people do AFF first without a tandem, and in fact, the AFF program was designed for that approach, so you may decide that is your best bet. I won't argue against an AFF as your first jump, but if I had to put a nickel down, I'd bet you would be happier with a tandem first. Generally, people who do other wild and crazy things (rock climbing, car racing, SCUBA diving, backcountry snowboarding, etc.) do well with AFF as a first jump. People who don't have a ton of thrill seeking experiences tend to like a tandem first. I'll bet you have tons of other questions, so I'll quickly recommend a book called JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy. I'm actually the author of the book, and it was just published by McGraw-Hill earlier this year. It is loaded with information for people like you who want to know all about skydiving training. Check it out at your local bookseller, or on Amazon.com. Amazon has something like 43 pages available for preview, so even if you don't buy JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy, the preview pages should help you, and THAT'S FREE!!!! Tom Buchanan Author JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and EasyTom Buchanan Instructor Emeritus Comm Pilot MSEL,G Author: JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites dterrick 0 #5 August 18, 2003 Hey Carth! congrats on the decision to finally go ...I raced cars a track adjacent to a DZ for over 10 years before I even considered it. It was not that I didn;t want to, I just never thought of it as something "I could do". If you're a 'car guy' type that likes G forces and stuff, you'll love the canopy part of the experience and definately will want to choose AFF over tandem. In fact, you might also want to consider the traditional static line (also known as / similar to Instructor Assisted deployment). In this progression you first learn only about stable exits and parachute opening. Freefall is only introduced after you master the basics an in increasingly long delays. All during the progression, though, you get a parachute opening, flight, and landing on every outing. THAT is the big plus for SL/IAD. don;t let anyone ever tell you that freefall is "more important" - you still need to land and you get the most of that by starting low and slow. As detailed in anonther post, the ultimate lcost of an A license is only marginally different between the programs. Remember, it's all good so enjoy it no matter what you decide. And do please let us know how it goes (...like you wouldn't?) -Dave Life is very short and there's no time for fussing and fighting my friend (Lennon/McCartney) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites richardd 0 #6 August 18, 2003 I did a tandem in 98 and after a few beers talked myself and some mates into a solo static line jump. 14 jumps/2months on im nearly cat-8 and loving it. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites jumpinjackflash 0 #7 August 20, 2003 Ok, here it is Garth. First, it's bad when a student replies, since we really are lower than pond scum I did static line progression, and made it through 5 static line jumps (low altitude bad, hate it), then completely tanked my first two freefalls (low altitude, hate it). Then did not jump again until last week (eight years ago). Went last week and did my first AFF, and nothings stopping me now! High Altitude, love it, don't get worried that I'll smack 5 seconds after hitting the air. Two jumpmasters did a fine job working with me in the air, and I'm going back this weekend. Very Cool Shit, Very Cool. Do a tandem and progress into AFF or just do AFF, either way you'll get a real jump the first time.It's a gas, gas, gas... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Michele 1 #8 August 20, 2003 Hi, Carth... I did my first jump as AFF. If I were to do it over again, I likely would go tandem. There's a lot going on, and a lot to assimilate during a jump. I think I would have been less overwhelmed if I had been able to "watch the view" the first jump, rather than try to watch the view and accomplish everything else, forget what the signals are, pull by myself, and get lost looking for the airport.... Whenever anyone asks me about it, I recommend tandem as a first go, because it takes some of the pressure off. Welcome to the skies, and come back and let us know what you decide to do. Ciels- Michele ~Do Angels keep the dreams we seek While our hearts lie bleeding?~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites RippedCord 0 #9 August 20, 2003 QuoteI suggest a single tandem as your first jump, followed by AFF. The tandem gives you some basic experience, and that makes the AFF ground training easier. Likewise, it gives you a pretty good idea what freefall and the parachute ride will be like on your AFF jump, so that helps you relax in the AFF program. ... I'll bet you have tons of other questions, so I'll quickly recommend a book called JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy... [by]Tom Buchanan... I'll second Tom's recommendation here--especially his comments on how the tandem gives you a good idea of what freefall and the parachute ride will be like without having to worry about all the information you'll be asked to absorb on AFF1. I did a tandem, then bought his "Jump!" book and signed up for AFF1. Immediately after AFF1, I also bought "The Skydivers Handbook" by Dan Poynter and Mike Turoff. Between these two books, you should be pretty well covered, and the order in which I've mentioned them here is the order in which I'd recommend reading them. Enjoy! Its the most amazing thing I've ever done. AMDG Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Joreilly 0 #10 August 20, 2003 I started AFF last month, am up to #6, and would recommend a tandem to start with. Even after all the training you get for the first jump, looking out that door the first time lobotomizes you pretty effectively. I had done a couple of static line jumps 25 years ago from 2500', but 14,000' is another dimension. Once you hit a stable arch you feel more relaxed, and having someone to handle the details on a first jump gets you closer to that comfort zone right away. I would also suggest that you read up on AFF - as soon as you land you'll want to sign up - have a great time! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites SkydiveNFlorida 0 #11 August 20, 2003 Hey there! Congrads on your decision to make the dive,... you should do whatever you feel best with. I did aff1 as my first jump, but I felt very comfortable about it, figured i'd do well, and counted on loving it. And, I was comfortable, did well, and loved it! haha. But, many people do aff1 as their first jump, and end up getting a sensory overload thing, ... either way, the jumpmasters will pull for you if need be, so you'll be fine as long as you listen well about canopy control. I can't comment on a tandem as i've never done one. Good luck whatever your decision! Angela. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites phonics1981 0 #12 August 20, 2003 I did AFF all the way. For me that was the best way to go. ------------------------------------------------------ "Ive given up on sigs cos I make a mess of them!" ------------------------------------------------------ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites trumpetfish 0 #13 August 20, 2003 I went straight to AFF. I would consider myself as someone who likes a rush from sports and enjoys scaring myself, but even so, on my first jump I was totally bricking it, but still knew i was going to do it. After all, it's overcoming your fear that gives you the buzz to start with right? My instructors were great in that they managed to relax me a little on the way to altitude and i knew that I was 'safe' with them. it took me until jump 4 before I started to really relax and get a grip on the situation as a whole. My advice is forget the tandem - with the amount it will cost you, you could pay for your first AFF level easily (im in the UK so not sure exactly on pricing). whatever you decide have fun and beware... it may take over your life!! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites FreeDiver 0 #14 August 20, 2003 I did a tandem jump first I don't really see the need to do a tandem jump first if you know what to expect. Drive your car 120mph: put an arm outside the window -- feel the presure ? put your head outside the window -- hear the noise ? Imagine you have to cope with this in a completely alien environment and feeling scared. Other than that watch some landings before you jump yourself: Imagine yourself going down still pretty fast and watch people flare If you don't care about the extra money for a tandem or are unshure about your abilities do a tandem otherwise just jump AFF1 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites funks 1 #15 August 20, 2003 if you are serious and dedicated to becoming a skydiver and giving the sport your all then do AFF, if you are just looking to experience what it is like to jump out of an airplane so you can say you have done it then do tandem. Learning to skydive is a serious commitment, both time and money....your life will change forever if you decide to become a skydiver, if that is your goal then invest in AFF from the start! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites carth 0 #16 August 20, 2003 Thanks for all your suggustions! I talked with the instructors over at the Dropzone i'll be going to and they suggested i take the AFF course once i explained that it is something i'd like to continue with and that i've been racing motorcyles for awhile now. Thanks for the suggestion on getting JUMP! i just ordered a copy to give me something to read while i'm waiting to go. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites vonSanta 0 #17 August 21, 2003 Did AFF right away. Tandem is way more expensive here and for a bum like me that counts. More important was that *I* wanted to be jumping - with me making the decisions and stuff. Maybe that's not entirely true for AFF1 AFF1 was over before I knew it had started. Totally cool :) Santa Von GrossenArsch I only come in one flavour ohwaitthatcanbemisunderst Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Join the conversation You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. 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a97virago 0 #2 August 18, 2003 My Opinion (for what's it's worth) Doing a tandem first lets you relax, enjoy the ride/view with out the stress of AFF. If you find that you LOVE IT (and I'm sure you will) then proceed onto AFF. I went through Tandem progression (5 tandems, 5 IAF, etc) and I don't know if I would have been all there if I had started out AFF. But that's just me Larry A-43434 Larry A-43434 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Malev 0 #3 August 18, 2003 QuoteI'd really like to AFF classes but am nervous that it may not be something a first timer should try. Different people have different opinions on this, so chances are you'll get a whole load of different answers here. For what its worth, my first jump was my AFF Level 1, and I know this was the best thing for me. There are plenty of people who do AFF without doing a tandem. There are also lots who do one, or even a few, tandems first. Do whatever you feel most comfortable with, and what your instructors recommend, but don't be pressured into doing a tandem just because your mate did. On the other hand, if it makes you feel more comfortable then sure, do one first. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites tombuch 0 #4 August 18, 2003 I suggest a single tandem as your first jump, followed by AFF. The tandem gives you some basic experience, and that makes the AFF ground training easier. Likewise, it gives you a pretty good idea what freefall and the parachute ride will be like on your AFF jump, so that helps you relax in the AFF program. Some people do AFF first without a tandem, and in fact, the AFF program was designed for that approach, so you may decide that is your best bet. I won't argue against an AFF as your first jump, but if I had to put a nickel down, I'd bet you would be happier with a tandem first. Generally, people who do other wild and crazy things (rock climbing, car racing, SCUBA diving, backcountry snowboarding, etc.) do well with AFF as a first jump. People who don't have a ton of thrill seeking experiences tend to like a tandem first. I'll bet you have tons of other questions, so I'll quickly recommend a book called JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy. I'm actually the author of the book, and it was just published by McGraw-Hill earlier this year. It is loaded with information for people like you who want to know all about skydiving training. Check it out at your local bookseller, or on Amazon.com. Amazon has something like 43 pages available for preview, so even if you don't buy JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy, the preview pages should help you, and THAT'S FREE!!!! Tom Buchanan Author JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and EasyTom Buchanan Instructor Emeritus Comm Pilot MSEL,G Author: JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites dterrick 0 #5 August 18, 2003 Hey Carth! congrats on the decision to finally go ...I raced cars a track adjacent to a DZ for over 10 years before I even considered it. It was not that I didn;t want to, I just never thought of it as something "I could do". If you're a 'car guy' type that likes G forces and stuff, you'll love the canopy part of the experience and definately will want to choose AFF over tandem. In fact, you might also want to consider the traditional static line (also known as / similar to Instructor Assisted deployment). In this progression you first learn only about stable exits and parachute opening. Freefall is only introduced after you master the basics an in increasingly long delays. All during the progression, though, you get a parachute opening, flight, and landing on every outing. THAT is the big plus for SL/IAD. don;t let anyone ever tell you that freefall is "more important" - you still need to land and you get the most of that by starting low and slow. As detailed in anonther post, the ultimate lcost of an A license is only marginally different between the programs. Remember, it's all good so enjoy it no matter what you decide. And do please let us know how it goes (...like you wouldn't?) -Dave Life is very short and there's no time for fussing and fighting my friend (Lennon/McCartney) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites richardd 0 #6 August 18, 2003 I did a tandem in 98 and after a few beers talked myself and some mates into a solo static line jump. 14 jumps/2months on im nearly cat-8 and loving it. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites jumpinjackflash 0 #7 August 20, 2003 Ok, here it is Garth. First, it's bad when a student replies, since we really are lower than pond scum I did static line progression, and made it through 5 static line jumps (low altitude bad, hate it), then completely tanked my first two freefalls (low altitude, hate it). Then did not jump again until last week (eight years ago). Went last week and did my first AFF, and nothings stopping me now! High Altitude, love it, don't get worried that I'll smack 5 seconds after hitting the air. Two jumpmasters did a fine job working with me in the air, and I'm going back this weekend. Very Cool Shit, Very Cool. Do a tandem and progress into AFF or just do AFF, either way you'll get a real jump the first time.It's a gas, gas, gas... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Michele 1 #8 August 20, 2003 Hi, Carth... I did my first jump as AFF. If I were to do it over again, I likely would go tandem. There's a lot going on, and a lot to assimilate during a jump. I think I would have been less overwhelmed if I had been able to "watch the view" the first jump, rather than try to watch the view and accomplish everything else, forget what the signals are, pull by myself, and get lost looking for the airport.... Whenever anyone asks me about it, I recommend tandem as a first go, because it takes some of the pressure off. Welcome to the skies, and come back and let us know what you decide to do. Ciels- Michele ~Do Angels keep the dreams we seek While our hearts lie bleeding?~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites RippedCord 0 #9 August 20, 2003 QuoteI suggest a single tandem as your first jump, followed by AFF. The tandem gives you some basic experience, and that makes the AFF ground training easier. Likewise, it gives you a pretty good idea what freefall and the parachute ride will be like on your AFF jump, so that helps you relax in the AFF program. ... I'll bet you have tons of other questions, so I'll quickly recommend a book called JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy... [by]Tom Buchanan... I'll second Tom's recommendation here--especially his comments on how the tandem gives you a good idea of what freefall and the parachute ride will be like without having to worry about all the information you'll be asked to absorb on AFF1. I did a tandem, then bought his "Jump!" book and signed up for AFF1. Immediately after AFF1, I also bought "The Skydivers Handbook" by Dan Poynter and Mike Turoff. Between these two books, you should be pretty well covered, and the order in which I've mentioned them here is the order in which I'd recommend reading them. Enjoy! Its the most amazing thing I've ever done. AMDG Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Joreilly 0 #10 August 20, 2003 I started AFF last month, am up to #6, and would recommend a tandem to start with. Even after all the training you get for the first jump, looking out that door the first time lobotomizes you pretty effectively. I had done a couple of static line jumps 25 years ago from 2500', but 14,000' is another dimension. Once you hit a stable arch you feel more relaxed, and having someone to handle the details on a first jump gets you closer to that comfort zone right away. I would also suggest that you read up on AFF - as soon as you land you'll want to sign up - have a great time! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites SkydiveNFlorida 0 #11 August 20, 2003 Hey there! Congrads on your decision to make the dive,... you should do whatever you feel best with. I did aff1 as my first jump, but I felt very comfortable about it, figured i'd do well, and counted on loving it. And, I was comfortable, did well, and loved it! haha. But, many people do aff1 as their first jump, and end up getting a sensory overload thing, ... either way, the jumpmasters will pull for you if need be, so you'll be fine as long as you listen well about canopy control. I can't comment on a tandem as i've never done one. Good luck whatever your decision! Angela. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites phonics1981 0 #12 August 20, 2003 I did AFF all the way. For me that was the best way to go. ------------------------------------------------------ "Ive given up on sigs cos I make a mess of them!" ------------------------------------------------------ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites trumpetfish 0 #13 August 20, 2003 I went straight to AFF. I would consider myself as someone who likes a rush from sports and enjoys scaring myself, but even so, on my first jump I was totally bricking it, but still knew i was going to do it. After all, it's overcoming your fear that gives you the buzz to start with right? My instructors were great in that they managed to relax me a little on the way to altitude and i knew that I was 'safe' with them. it took me until jump 4 before I started to really relax and get a grip on the situation as a whole. My advice is forget the tandem - with the amount it will cost you, you could pay for your first AFF level easily (im in the UK so not sure exactly on pricing). whatever you decide have fun and beware... it may take over your life!! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites FreeDiver 0 #14 August 20, 2003 I did a tandem jump first I don't really see the need to do a tandem jump first if you know what to expect. Drive your car 120mph: put an arm outside the window -- feel the presure ? put your head outside the window -- hear the noise ? Imagine you have to cope with this in a completely alien environment and feeling scared. Other than that watch some landings before you jump yourself: Imagine yourself going down still pretty fast and watch people flare If you don't care about the extra money for a tandem or are unshure about your abilities do a tandem otherwise just jump AFF1 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites funks 1 #15 August 20, 2003 if you are serious and dedicated to becoming a skydiver and giving the sport your all then do AFF, if you are just looking to experience what it is like to jump out of an airplane so you can say you have done it then do tandem. Learning to skydive is a serious commitment, both time and money....your life will change forever if you decide to become a skydiver, if that is your goal then invest in AFF from the start! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites carth 0 #16 August 20, 2003 Thanks for all your suggustions! I talked with the instructors over at the Dropzone i'll be going to and they suggested i take the AFF course once i explained that it is something i'd like to continue with and that i've been racing motorcyles for awhile now. Thanks for the suggestion on getting JUMP! i just ordered a copy to give me something to read while i'm waiting to go. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites vonSanta 0 #17 August 21, 2003 Did AFF right away. Tandem is way more expensive here and for a bum like me that counts. More important was that *I* wanted to be jumping - with me making the decisions and stuff. Maybe that's not entirely true for AFF1 AFF1 was over before I knew it had started. Totally cool :) Santa Von GrossenArsch I only come in one flavour ohwaitthatcanbemisunderst Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Join the conversation You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible. Reply to this topic... × Pasted as rich text. Paste as plain text instead Only 75 emoji are allowed. × Your link has been automatically embedded. Display as a link instead × Your previous content has been restored. Clear editor × You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL. Insert image from URL × Desktop Tablet Phone Submit Reply 0
tombuch 0 #4 August 18, 2003 I suggest a single tandem as your first jump, followed by AFF. The tandem gives you some basic experience, and that makes the AFF ground training easier. Likewise, it gives you a pretty good idea what freefall and the parachute ride will be like on your AFF jump, so that helps you relax in the AFF program. Some people do AFF first without a tandem, and in fact, the AFF program was designed for that approach, so you may decide that is your best bet. I won't argue against an AFF as your first jump, but if I had to put a nickel down, I'd bet you would be happier with a tandem first. Generally, people who do other wild and crazy things (rock climbing, car racing, SCUBA diving, backcountry snowboarding, etc.) do well with AFF as a first jump. People who don't have a ton of thrill seeking experiences tend to like a tandem first. I'll bet you have tons of other questions, so I'll quickly recommend a book called JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy. I'm actually the author of the book, and it was just published by McGraw-Hill earlier this year. It is loaded with information for people like you who want to know all about skydiving training. Check it out at your local bookseller, or on Amazon.com. Amazon has something like 43 pages available for preview, so even if you don't buy JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy, the preview pages should help you, and THAT'S FREE!!!! Tom Buchanan Author JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and EasyTom Buchanan Instructor Emeritus Comm Pilot MSEL,G Author: JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dterrick 0 #5 August 18, 2003 Hey Carth! congrats on the decision to finally go ...I raced cars a track adjacent to a DZ for over 10 years before I even considered it. It was not that I didn;t want to, I just never thought of it as something "I could do". If you're a 'car guy' type that likes G forces and stuff, you'll love the canopy part of the experience and definately will want to choose AFF over tandem. In fact, you might also want to consider the traditional static line (also known as / similar to Instructor Assisted deployment). In this progression you first learn only about stable exits and parachute opening. Freefall is only introduced after you master the basics an in increasingly long delays. All during the progression, though, you get a parachute opening, flight, and landing on every outing. THAT is the big plus for SL/IAD. don;t let anyone ever tell you that freefall is "more important" - you still need to land and you get the most of that by starting low and slow. As detailed in anonther post, the ultimate lcost of an A license is only marginally different between the programs. Remember, it's all good so enjoy it no matter what you decide. And do please let us know how it goes (...like you wouldn't?) -Dave Life is very short and there's no time for fussing and fighting my friend (Lennon/McCartney) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
richardd 0 #6 August 18, 2003 I did a tandem in 98 and after a few beers talked myself and some mates into a solo static line jump. 14 jumps/2months on im nearly cat-8 and loving it. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jumpinjackflash 0 #7 August 20, 2003 Ok, here it is Garth. First, it's bad when a student replies, since we really are lower than pond scum I did static line progression, and made it through 5 static line jumps (low altitude bad, hate it), then completely tanked my first two freefalls (low altitude, hate it). Then did not jump again until last week (eight years ago). Went last week and did my first AFF, and nothings stopping me now! High Altitude, love it, don't get worried that I'll smack 5 seconds after hitting the air. Two jumpmasters did a fine job working with me in the air, and I'm going back this weekend. Very Cool Shit, Very Cool. Do a tandem and progress into AFF or just do AFF, either way you'll get a real jump the first time.It's a gas, gas, gas... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Michele 1 #8 August 20, 2003 Hi, Carth... I did my first jump as AFF. If I were to do it over again, I likely would go tandem. There's a lot going on, and a lot to assimilate during a jump. I think I would have been less overwhelmed if I had been able to "watch the view" the first jump, rather than try to watch the view and accomplish everything else, forget what the signals are, pull by myself, and get lost looking for the airport.... Whenever anyone asks me about it, I recommend tandem as a first go, because it takes some of the pressure off. Welcome to the skies, and come back and let us know what you decide to do. Ciels- Michele ~Do Angels keep the dreams we seek While our hearts lie bleeding?~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RippedCord 0 #9 August 20, 2003 QuoteI suggest a single tandem as your first jump, followed by AFF. The tandem gives you some basic experience, and that makes the AFF ground training easier. Likewise, it gives you a pretty good idea what freefall and the parachute ride will be like on your AFF jump, so that helps you relax in the AFF program. ... I'll bet you have tons of other questions, so I'll quickly recommend a book called JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy... [by]Tom Buchanan... I'll second Tom's recommendation here--especially his comments on how the tandem gives you a good idea of what freefall and the parachute ride will be like without having to worry about all the information you'll be asked to absorb on AFF1. I did a tandem, then bought his "Jump!" book and signed up for AFF1. Immediately after AFF1, I also bought "The Skydivers Handbook" by Dan Poynter and Mike Turoff. Between these two books, you should be pretty well covered, and the order in which I've mentioned them here is the order in which I'd recommend reading them. Enjoy! Its the most amazing thing I've ever done. AMDG Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Joreilly 0 #10 August 20, 2003 I started AFF last month, am up to #6, and would recommend a tandem to start with. Even after all the training you get for the first jump, looking out that door the first time lobotomizes you pretty effectively. I had done a couple of static line jumps 25 years ago from 2500', but 14,000' is another dimension. Once you hit a stable arch you feel more relaxed, and having someone to handle the details on a first jump gets you closer to that comfort zone right away. I would also suggest that you read up on AFF - as soon as you land you'll want to sign up - have a great time! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SkydiveNFlorida 0 #11 August 20, 2003 Hey there! Congrads on your decision to make the dive,... you should do whatever you feel best with. I did aff1 as my first jump, but I felt very comfortable about it, figured i'd do well, and counted on loving it. And, I was comfortable, did well, and loved it! haha. But, many people do aff1 as their first jump, and end up getting a sensory overload thing, ... either way, the jumpmasters will pull for you if need be, so you'll be fine as long as you listen well about canopy control. I can't comment on a tandem as i've never done one. Good luck whatever your decision! Angela. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
phonics1981 0 #12 August 20, 2003 I did AFF all the way. For me that was the best way to go. ------------------------------------------------------ "Ive given up on sigs cos I make a mess of them!" ------------------------------------------------------ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
trumpetfish 0 #13 August 20, 2003 I went straight to AFF. I would consider myself as someone who likes a rush from sports and enjoys scaring myself, but even so, on my first jump I was totally bricking it, but still knew i was going to do it. After all, it's overcoming your fear that gives you the buzz to start with right? My instructors were great in that they managed to relax me a little on the way to altitude and i knew that I was 'safe' with them. it took me until jump 4 before I started to really relax and get a grip on the situation as a whole. My advice is forget the tandem - with the amount it will cost you, you could pay for your first AFF level easily (im in the UK so not sure exactly on pricing). whatever you decide have fun and beware... it may take over your life!! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
FreeDiver 0 #14 August 20, 2003 I did a tandem jump first I don't really see the need to do a tandem jump first if you know what to expect. Drive your car 120mph: put an arm outside the window -- feel the presure ? put your head outside the window -- hear the noise ? Imagine you have to cope with this in a completely alien environment and feeling scared. Other than that watch some landings before you jump yourself: Imagine yourself going down still pretty fast and watch people flare If you don't care about the extra money for a tandem or are unshure about your abilities do a tandem otherwise just jump AFF1 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
funks 1 #15 August 20, 2003 if you are serious and dedicated to becoming a skydiver and giving the sport your all then do AFF, if you are just looking to experience what it is like to jump out of an airplane so you can say you have done it then do tandem. Learning to skydive is a serious commitment, both time and money....your life will change forever if you decide to become a skydiver, if that is your goal then invest in AFF from the start! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
carth 0 #16 August 20, 2003 Thanks for all your suggustions! I talked with the instructors over at the Dropzone i'll be going to and they suggested i take the AFF course once i explained that it is something i'd like to continue with and that i've been racing motorcyles for awhile now. Thanks for the suggestion on getting JUMP! i just ordered a copy to give me something to read while i'm waiting to go. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
vonSanta 0 #17 August 21, 2003 Did AFF right away. Tandem is way more expensive here and for a bum like me that counts. More important was that *I* wanted to be jumping - with me making the decisions and stuff. Maybe that's not entirely true for AFF1 AFF1 was over before I knew it had started. Totally cool :) Santa Von GrossenArsch I only come in one flavour ohwaitthatcanbemisunderst Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
