Do You Have to Be Physically Fit to Skydive?

Skydiving is a life-changing adventure that appeals to thrill-seekers and soul-searchers of all shapes and sizes. But a common question is: Do you have to be physically fit to skydive? The answer is yes, but not in the way you might think. Many people wonder if they’re “fit enough” to skydive, but the reality is, skydiving is pretty accessible to a wide range of individuals when it comes to body types. However, there are a few safety concerns that need to be addressed before harnessing up and taking on the skies! 

Do You Have to Be Physically Fit to Skydive?

While you don’t necessarily need to be an elite athlete to enjoy skydiving, you will need to have a reasonable level of fitness to help minimize risk while skydiving and to stay comfortable – jumping out of airplanes is technically a sport after all. Tandem skydiving involves a good amount of bending, crouching, kneeling, and sliding on your bottom for landing (in some cases the instructor might stand you up for landings). These movements require a little bit of mobility, flexibility, strength, and mental aptitude on your end. Let’s get into the nitty gritty details of the physical requirements for skydiving.

Tandem Skydiving Physical Requirements

Aside from the age requirement of 18 years old, there are a few other important physical capabilities required to have a successful skydive.

Mobility in the Aircraft

Before you even begin with the actual skydive itself, you’ll need to have the mobility in order to board and exit the airplane you’re jumping from. Boarding a skydiving plane is much different than boarding a commercial aircraft. Space is limited inside of skydiving airplanes and most airplanes have a small door that you’ll need to be able to crouch into. 

Once you’re in the airplane it can be tight quarters, especially in a Cessna 182 which seats 4 guests (2 tandem passengers and their instructors). You’ll have to duck, crouch, shimmy and sit on the floor of the airplane as you await your turn to jump. 

When it’s time to exit the aircraft, you’ll need to crouch and shuffle carefully towards the open door all while attached to your instructor. Next, your instructor will have you kneel down in the door and get as close to the edge as possible. 

These moments can be a bit tricky, which is why it’s important to already have good mobility – once you’re out the door, we promise you won’t even be thinking about the awkwardness of it all!

Flexibility in Freefall

As you prepare for your skydive, your instructor will go over everything you’ll need to know for bodyflight. You’ll practice the body position necessary for freefall – which is a belly-to-earth “banana shape” bend. For this freefall body position you’ll want to have your hands up on the side of your head close to your eyes, arms at a 90° angle, push your hips forward and chin up – don’t forget to smile! 

If you have current or previous back issues, this position may cause a bit of discomfort especially in your lower back. If you notice a pain here, please let your instructor know and they can make adjustments. If you think the pain will be too great, it’s best to consult a physician before attempting to skydive.

Core Strength on Landing

The biggest test to your strength will be during landing. Picture yourself being suspended by your harness underneath a beautiful, colorful parachute. From this position you must be able to lift your legs in the air – kinda like a hanging leg raise – in order to land successfully without your instructor stumbling over top of you or potentially injuring your knees, feet, and ankles. 

Usually your instructor will gently slide you onto your bottom, but in some instances they will stand you up depending on certain conditions; just listen to their instructions.

Mental Alertness for Instruction

Your cognitive ability must be sound in order to listen to guidance given by your instructor – which is part of the reason why we also do not allow any drugs or alcohol in your system during a skydive. We are very strict on this rule as it can directly impact the safety of you, your instructor, and everyone else involved.

Skydiving Weight Requirements

Weight limits are in place to keep you and your instructor safe and are not based on any bias or prejudice. While we would love for everybody to skydive, we have to keep safety in the forefront of our minds at all times. These restrictions are based on the capacity of the tandem skydiving gear, which is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and gear manufacturers. 

Skydiving rigs are usually rated to handle a combined weight of approximately 500 lbs, including the instructor, student, and gear. Exceeding the weight limit can lead to a faster parachute deployment, which can be uncomfortable AND potentially increase the risk of injury to both participants. 

Weight limits vary based on the dropzone you jump at, the instructor you’re jumping with, and the gear they’re using. At Skydive STL, the weight limit for tandem skydiving is 260 lbs, with a $1 per pound charge for those over 200 lbs. 

Who Shouldn’t Go Skydiving?

There are certain medical conditions that may prevent you from skydiving altogether. If you have any of the following please consult with your physician before attempting to skydive:

• High Blood Pressure/Heart Problems
• Neck/Back Issues
• Pregnancy
• Epilepsy
• Diabetes
• Respiratory Issues

Can You Jump With a Disability?

We are, to an extent, able to accommodate guests with various disabilities. If you have a disability and want to skydive, please give us a call ahead of time so we can discuss details and prepare for your arrival. Additionally, we may need to have you come in for an in-person evaluation before your skydive. As always, please consult with a physician and get the “o.k.” from them before deciding to go on this endeavor. 

Getting Ready for Your First Skydive!

If you’re feeling unsure about your fitness level, here are a few steps you can take to help you prepare:

• Talk to Your Doctor: If you have health concerns, especially involving your heart or lungs, get clearance from your doctor first.

• Stay Active: Light exercise like walking, stretching, leg lifts, and general activity can help improve your mobility, making you feel more confident during the jump.

• Communicate with Your Instructor: Share any concerns you have with your instructor. They are trained professionals who are there to make sure you’re comfortable and prepared for the adventure.

Whether you’re worried about meeting the requirements or have questions about your jump, our team is here to ensure you have an unforgettable experience! Don’t let concerns about fitness hold you back from the adventure of a lifetime. 

Book your tandem skydive with St. Louis’ closest skydiving center, Skydive STL today! Secure your spot and feel the freedom of freefall. Blue skies!