Indoor skydiving is a safe, controlled way to experience the thrill of freefall without jumping out of an airplane. It uses a vertical wind tunnel—a large tube where powerful fans generate upward airspeed (usually 100–160 mph) to simulate the sensation of falling. Suitable for people of all ages and physical conditions, it provides a unique opportunity to challenge oneself and create unforgettable memories in a secure setting. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced skydiver training for outdoor jumps, indoor skydiving offers a fun, low-risk environment to learn body control and enjoy the rush of flight.
Key Benefits of Indoor Skydiving
No parachute needed: The wind tunnel provides constant support, so you don’t have to worry about opening a chute.
Safe for all ages: Most facilities allow participants as young as 3 or 4 years old (with weight restrictions) and have no upper age limit.
Controlled learning environment: Coaches can give real-time feedback to help you improve quickly.
Weatherproof: Unlike outdoor skydiving, indoor sessions aren’t affected by rain, wind, or cloud cover.
Before You Fly: Preparation and Gear
Choose a Reputable Facility
What to Wear
Top: Wear a fitted shirt (avoid loose fabrics that could catch the wind). A long-sleeve shirt can protect your arms from minor scrapes against the tunnel walls.
Bottoms: Athletic pants or jeans (avoid shorts, as the wind can make them uncomfortable).
Footwear: Most facilities require bare feet or lightweight socks (no shoes, as they can slip off in the wind).
Remove Accessories
Take off all jewelry (necklaces, earrings, watches, rings), glasses (use contacts if possible), and loose hair accessories. Secure long hair in a tight braid or bun to prevent it from blocking your face during flight.
Understand the Briefing: Before entering the tunnel, you’ll receive a mandatory safety briefing. How to enter and exit the tunnel safely. The basic body position (arch) and hand signals used by instructors. What to do if you feel overwhelmed (e.g., how to signal the coach and regain control).
The Basic Body Position: Mastering the Arch
The foundation of indoor skydiving is the arch position, which helps you stabilize and control your flight. Stand Tall (On the Ground First). Practice on solid ground before entering the tunnel: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Extend your arms straight out to the sides, parallel to the ground, with palms facing down. Tilt your head up slightly, looking toward the ceiling (not down at your feet). Push your hips back and arch your back gently, creating a “banana shape” from head to heels.
Maintain the Arch in the Wind
Once inside the tunnel, the wind will lift you off the ground.
Focus on: Keeping your body rigid but relaxed. Avoid slouching or curling into a ball. Pressing your chest forward and spreading your arms wide to create surface area for the wind to support you. Keeping your legs straight but not locked, with feet slightly apart and toes pointed downward.
Common Mistakes for Beginners
Looking down: This causes your hips to rise and your feet to drop, making it hard to stay stable.
Bending the arms too much: Keep them straight to maintain balance.
Tensing up: Relax your muscles—tense shoulders will throw off your posture.
How to Control Your Flight
Controlling Height
Go higher: To rise in the tunnel, tuck your chin slightly and bring your arms closer to your sides (but not too much—keep them extended). This reduces air resistance and lets the wind lift you.
Go lower: To descend, arch more deeply, push your chest forward, and spread your arms and legs wider. This increases surface area and slows your ascent.
Moving Sideways
Turn right: Shift your weight to your left shoulder by tilting your left hip slightly forward and looking toward your left hand.
Turn left: Do the opposite—shift weight to your right shoulder, tilt your right hip forward, and look toward your right hand.
Straighten out: If you start spinning, relax your body, regain the arch position, and look straight ahead.
Working with Your Instructor
Advanced Tips for Experienced Flyers
Flips and tricks: Learn to rotate your body vertically or horizontally by tucking your legs or twisting your hips.
Group flying: Fly with friends in formation, practicing coordination and teamwork.
Freefly techniques: Experiment with head-down or sit-fly positions (requires advanced training and instructor approval).
Always build up to new skills gradually. Master one level before moving on to avoid frustration or injury.
Rules and Precautions
Indoor skydiving is safe when you follow these guidelines:
Listen to your instructor: They know the tunnel’s dynamics and can keep you safe.
Stay calm: Panicking can make you lose control. If you feel overwhelmed, focus on maintaining your arch and making eye contact with your coach.
Avoid the edges: Stay in the center of the tunnel to prevent collisions with the walls or netting.
Know your limits: Don’t push yourself to try moves you’re not ready for.
Communicate clearly: Use the pre-agreed hand signals to tell your instructor if you need to stop or adjust.
Most issues are minor, but it’s good to know: If you lose your balance, relax and return to the arch position. If the wind speed changes unexpectedly, trust your instructor to guide you. In rare cases of equipment failure, the tunnel will slow the wind gradually, and you’ll gently land on the net or floor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need previous skydiving experience? No—indoor skydiving is designed for beginners. Instructors will teach you everything you need to know. How old do I need to be? Most facilities allow kids as young as 3, but they must meet weight requirements (usually at least 30 lbs). Parents should check with the specific tunnel. Is indoor skydiving scary? Many first-timers feel nervous, but the wind supports you completely, and the instructor stays with you. Most people find it exhilarating rather than scary!
Conclusion
Indoor skydiving is an accessible, thrilling activity that anyone can enjoy. By mastering the arch position, listening to your instructor, and staying calm, you’ll learn to “fly” in a safe, controlled environment. Whether you’re looking for a unique adventure, a way to train for outdoor skydiving, or just a fun day out with friends, indoor skydiving offers an unforgettable experience. So why wait? Book a session at your local wind tunnel, embrace the rush of the wind, and discover the joy of flight—no plane required! Remember, the key is to relax, trust the process, and have fun. You’ll be soaring like a pro in no time.