About

A tandem skydive is a perfect introduction to the sport of skydiving, and a great option for your free charity jump, as it requires just 15 minutes training.

Before the Jump

After arriving at your chosen skydiving centre, you'll fill in some paperwork and go for your short briefing on what to expect during your jump, as well as what to do at each stage. You'll also get the chance to order a DVD and photos of your jump, if you haven't already, to take home as a souvenir. To find out more about tandem videos in this article in our support section.

When the time comes for you to jump, you'll be called over and introduced to your instructor (and cameraman if you're having a video). Instructors have a great deal of experience (1,000+ jumps minimum before further training), so you can count on them to do the right thing!

Once you're kitted up, in a fetching jumpsuit, helmet and harness, you'll look and feel ridiculous. But better safe than sorry! Your instructor will take you to the aircraft and get you seated next to them. After a short ride to altitude (between 10,000ft and 15,000ft, depending on your skydiving centre and weather conditions), and having your harness clipped to the instructor's, the moment to jump will have arrived!

The Jump

Your instructor will help you over to the door and then exit the aircraft, taking you with them. Sounds so civilised doesn't it?

You'll fall at over 120 mph for anything between 45 seconds and a full minute, during which the instructor will show you just how exciting freefall can be. They'll then open your parachute and you can help them steer it back down to the ground! The instructor takes care of the landing bit, and you'll be left wondering why you've taken so long to try skydiving.

Downloads

• British Parachute Association (BPA) Tandem Fitness Form