Before we dive into these myths, I’d like to ask if you would rather have wings or gills? If you answered wings, then you need to go skydiving. Most of the office here at SportRx answered wings, however when I asked if they would go skydiving not everyone was on board. Sure everyone is down to fly like an eagle, but add the whole part of jumping out of a plane mixed with some fear of death and suddenly people are thinking twice. When it comes to sky diving, fear is a huge factor. Fear is another reason why so many skydiving myths have been spread from person to person. We are more susceptible to believe in the things that add fuel to our fears. That’s why I’d like to dispel some of the myths about skydiving, and separate truth from bullchute with these 7 Myths that shouldn't scare you.
Fact Or Bull-chute? Skydiving Myths debunked!
- I Can Die (BULLCHUTE)- Sure, skydiving is dangerous, but what isn’t! Flying is the safest mode of transportation and that includes skydiving. In 2018, USPA recorded 13 fatal skydiving accidents in the U.S. out of roughly 3.3 million jumps—the lowest number in the sport’s history! As technology advances, so does skydiving equipment. Today, jumping out of planes is safer and easier than ever before!
- I’ll Forget To Pull The Cord (BULLCHUTE) With advanced technology, there is no cord. Whaaaaat!!!!???? Yeah! It’s super simple these days. Instead of pulling a cord, you simply throw your pilot chute into the airstream which is connected to the main canopy. You also have your automatic activation device “AAD” which releases your parachute automatically at a certain altitude in case you're freaking out. Phew!
- Drink Redbull Before You Jump- (BULLCHUTE) This is a personal drinking preference, but Redbull DOES NOT give you wings. That is just an advertising slogan. If anything, it will just make you pee more. Instead, prepare your body right and hydrate with water.
- Jumpsuits Are Pee Proof (BULLCHUTE) Gross, don’t do this. When it comes to skydiving gear, pee proof is not a thing. We aren't in the ocean and these aren't wet-suits. Don't make it rain in the drop-zone. Empty your tank before getting in the plane!
- Talking While Jumping (BULLCHUTE) When you are free falling from 1300 ft and traveling over 100 mph, you may want to wait until you land to ask for her hand in marriage. Unless you're an actor in a movie playing an undercover cop, infiltrating an adrenaline chasing crew of surf riding bank robbers, you can’t talk during freefall. It’s impossible! Stick to the ancient language of thumbs up or thumbs down. Also, thumbs up if you got the Point Break reference.
- Elderly Not Allowed (BULLCHUTE) You are never to old to skydive. In fact, there are plenty of skydivers well beyond 60, 70, or even 80 years old. Talk about badass grandma. However, in the U.S. you do have to be over 18 years old.
- Affects Fertility (BULLCHUTE) The only thing skydiving affects in your body is your level of serotonin. Free falling through the air and flying like a bird will also awaken your inner adrenaline junky. All the more reason to jump!
Que Lenny Kravitz “Fly Away”
Skydiving Is Growing In Popularity
The sport of skydiving is becoming more popular every year. In 2018, an estimated 3 million jumps were made. The really cool thing about skydiving is that the sport is constantly being pushed to the limits. From tandem jumping, formation-jumping (the record is 400), wing suit, skysurfing, and more. The United States Parachute Association oversees all regulations and makes it very attainable for anyone to get their license. The first license a student can qualify for is the USPA "A" license and can be achieved with as few as 25 jumps. If you are a beginner make sure you do your research, but DEFINITELY go! Everyone should know what's it like to "fly like an eagle"!
