How safe is a first skydive? Most first jumps are tandem, which means you are attached to an experienced instructor who does the technical work. Your job is to listen, follow the briefing and enjoy it.
This guide gives general information only. It is not training. Always follow the instructions of the qualified skydiving centre and your instructor on the day.
Who runs it
Look for a centre that is a member of the British Skydiving organisation and that employs qualified tandem instructors. The centre should be happy to tell you who regulates it and how its instructors are qualified. Our how to check a provider is safe guide covers the questions to ask.
Medical and fitness questions
Centres ask you to fill in a health declaration before you jump. Be honest on it. Some conditions, such as heart problems, epilepsy, some back and neck problems and pregnancy, usually mean you cannot jump, and a few need a doctor’s note. If you are unsure, ask the centre before you book, not on the day.
Age, height and weight
Every centre sets its own minimum age and a weight range, because the equipment and the instructor have limits. These limits can differ between centres, so check each one. Our age, height and weight limits guide explains what to look for.
The briefing
Before you go up, you get a briefing on body position, what to do at exit, during freefall and on landing. Take your time, ask questions and say if something is unclear. A good centre never rushes this.
Equipment
The centre supplies the parachute system, harness, goggles and usually a jumpsuit. Ask how often the equipment is checked and packed, and who does it. Reputable centres are glad to explain.
Weather and waiting
Skydiving depends on wind, cloud and visibility, so days are often delayed or moved. A centre that cancels for the weather is doing the right thing. Read our weather and cancellation guide and ask what happens to your booking.
Alcohol and the night before
Do not drink alcohol before a jump, and be careful with a heavy night before. See our alcohol and adventure days guide.
Questions to ask
- Is the centre a member of British Skydiving, and are the instructors qualified tandem instructors?
- What are the age, height and weight limits?
- What happens if the weather is poor on the day?
- What is included, and is there anything extra to pay?
- What happens if I change my mind on the day?
Where to look
See the skydiving page for centres across the UK.
In short:
- First jumps are usually tandem, with a qualified instructor
- Be honest on the health form and check the limits before booking
- Ask about qualifications, equipment checks and the weather policy