mightaswelljump

Good stuff. As a student with only 20 jumps I'm still a bit hesitant to adjust my chest strap under canopy, but it can be something to work on as I progress. Definitely something to practice while on the ground while waiting for a load to get together. Just have to remember to tighten it up before getting on the plane.

What day are you coming into LAX?

I'm a student working towards my 'A' license and am starting to collect gear. Was looking to get a helmet and some goggles. Whenever possible I prefer to get hands-on with my gear before buying. But with skydiving it seems most gear is ordered online. I'm in Los Angeles and I know there is a Square1 pro-shop in Perris. Do they have a good selection on hand that I can check out? Are there any other options available? How does everyone else check out gear (especially for fit and comfort) when buying?

Thanks for the warm welcome

You can do it. Two and a half years ago I was in the same place as you; 285lbs, no physical fitness to speak of, not watching diet at all. Finally had a 'moment of clarity' and decided to lose the weight. Averaged about 1 to 1 1/2 pounds a week over two years. There were times the weight wouldn't come off at all. Then there were weeks it would melt away. Just remember to stick with it and you WILL be rewarded in the long term.

Hi Everyone! Pretty new to the sport, did my first tandem in June at Skydive Santa Barbara. Loved it but wanted to completely conquer the fear that hit me as I exited the plane from that first jump. I went back in August, did a second tandem and was able to enjoy the experience much more. Immediately did a level 2 tandem and started ground school for AFP a month later. Just completed AFP training a few weeks ago. It was a bit rough at times since I'm not the most graceful even on the ground. But I looked at it as jumps where I didn't pass on to the next level were still better than not jumping at all