Indoor skydiving is a thrilling activity simulating the sensation of freefalling, taking place in a vertical wind tunnel—a large cylindrical structure with powerful fans generating an upward air stream. Participants wear specialized gear like a jumpsuit, helmet and goggles, standing on a tunnel-bottom platform where the air current lifts and suspends them, mimicking skydiving. Originating in the 1960s as a training tool for skydivers to practice freefall techniques without aircraft, it has evolved into a popular recreational activity for people of all ages and skill levels, offering a safe and exciting way to experience flight for both seasoned skydivers refining skills and complete beginners trying something new.
The Fun Factors of Indoor Skydiving
The Thrill of Freefall Without the Fear
One of the main reasons why indoor skydiving is so much fun is the thrill of experiencing freefall without the inherent risks associated with outdoor skydiving. In a wind tunnel, you can enjoy the sensation of falling at high speeds (typically around 120 mph) without having to worry about opening a parachute or navigating through the sky. This makes it an ideal activity for people who are curious about skydiving but may be hesitant to take the plunge from an airplane.
The feeling of being suspended in the air by the wind current is truly unique. It’s a combination of weightlessness and exhilaration that’s hard to describe. As you learn to control your body position, you can experiment with different movements, such as spinning, turning, and diving, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Many people find that once they get the hang of it, they can’t wait to get back into the tunnel for another session.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
Indoor skydiving is incredibly accessible, making it a fun activity for a wide range of people. Unlike outdoor skydiving, which requires good weather conditions, specialized equipment, and often a significant investment of time and money, indoor skydiving facilities are typically located indoors and can be accessed year-round. This means you can enjoy the experience regardless of the weather outside.
Additionally, indoor skydiving is suitable for people of all ages and physical abilities. Children as young as three or four years old can participate with proper supervision, and older adults can enjoy the activity without putting excessive strain on their bodies. People with disabilities, such as paraplegics or amputees, can also take part in indoor skydiving with the help of specialized equipment and trained instructors. This inclusivity makes it a great activity for families, groups of friends, or even corporate events.
Learning and Skill Development
Another aspect of indoor skydiving that makes it fun is the opportunity to learn and develop new skills. Even if you’ve never tried skydiving before, a qualified instructor can teach you the basics of body positioning and control in a matter of minutes. As you practice, you’ll gradually improve your skills and be able to perform more advanced maneuvers. For experienced skydivers, indoor skydiving offers a valuable training ground to refine their techniques. The controlled environment of the wind tunnel allows them to practice specific skills, such as freefall stability, formation skydiving, or canopy control, without the distractions and variables of outdoor conditions. This can help them become better skydivers and improve their overall performance.
Social and Group Experiences
Indoor skydiving is also a great social activity. Many wind tunnel facilities offer group sessions, where you can share the experience with friends, family, or even strangers. There’s a sense of camaraderie that comes from trying something new together, and watching others learn and improve can be just as entertaining as doing it yourself. Group sessions often include competitions or challenges, such as seeing who can stay in a stable position the longest or who can perform the most impressive maneuver. This adds an element of friendly rivalry and makes the experience even more enjoyable. Plus, after your session, you can gather with your group to share stories and photos, creating lasting memories.
Indoor Skydiving vs. Outdoor Skydiving: Which is More Fun?
Similarities
Sensation of Freefall: Both indoor and outdoor skydiving provide the thrill of freefalling through the air, with similar body positions and movements required to control your descent.
Adrenaline Rush: Whether you’re in a wind tunnel or jumping out of an airplane, the adrenaline rush you experience is comparable, making both activities incredibly exciting.
Skill Development: Both require practice and skill development to master, and improving your abilities can be a rewarding and fun part of the experience.
Differences
Risk and Safety: Outdoor skydiving involves inherent risks, such as parachute malfunctions or adverse weather conditions. While outdoor skydiving is generally safe when done with a qualified instructor, there is still a higher level of risk compared to indoor skydiving. In a wind tunnel, the environment is completely controlled, and there’s no need to worry about opening a parachute or landing. This makes indoor skydiving a much safer option, especially for beginners.
Cost: Outdoor skydiving can be quite expensive, as it requires renting a plane, parachute equipment, and paying for instructor fees. Indoor skydiving, on the other hand, is typically more affordable, with session prices ranging from around 50 to 100 per person, depending on the facility and the length of the session.
Accessibility: As mentioned earlier, indoor skydiving facilities are located indoors and can be accessed year-round, regardless of the weather. Outdoor skydiving, however, is weather-dependent and may require traveling to a skydiving drop zone, which can be less convenient for some people.
Duration of Freefall: In outdoor skydiving, the freefall portion of the jump typically lasts between 30 seconds and a few minutes, depending on the altitude from which you jump. In an indoor wind tunnel, you can enjoy continuous freefall for the duration of your session, which is usually around 1-2 minutes per session. While this may seem shorter, the controlled environment allows you to practice and refine your skills more efficiently.
Safety in Indoor Skydiving
Equipment
Jumpsuit: This helps to streamline your body and improve your aerodynamics in the wind tunnel.
Helmet: Protects your head from accidental bumps or collisions.
Goggles: Shield your eyes from the wind and any debris in the tunnel.
Flightsuit or Coveralls: Some facilities may require you to wear a flightsuit or coveralls over your regular clothing to ensure a proper fit and reduce the risk of clothing getting caught in the wind.
The equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it’s in good working condition. Instructors will also check your equipment before each session to make sure it’s properly fitted and secure.
Instructors
All reputable indoor skydiving facilities employ trained and certified instructors who are experienced in teaching people of all skill levels. Before your session, your instructor will provide a detailed briefing on how to use the equipment, how to position your body in the wind tunnel, and what to do in case of an emergency. They will also be present in the tunnel with you during your session to provide guidance and ensure your safety. Instructors are trained to recognize when a participant is struggling and can provide immediate assistance to help them regain control. They can also adjust the wind speed in the tunnel to match your skill level, making the experience more comfortable and less intimidating for beginners.
How to Get Started with Indoor Skydiving
Find a Reputable Facility:The first step is to find an indoor skydiving facility near you. Do some research online to read reviews and check the facility’s safety record. Look for a facility that is affiliated with a recognized skydiving organization, such as the United States Parachute Association (USPA), as this can be an indication of high standards and professionalism.
Make a Reservation: Once you’ve chosen a facility, make a reservation for a session. Most facilities offer different package options, such as single sessions, multiple sessions, or group packages. Some may also offer discounts for first-time participants or for booking online in advance.
Arrive Early and Complete Paperwork: Plan to arrive at the facility at least 30 minutes before your scheduled session to complete any necessary paperwork, such as a liability waiver. You’ll also have the opportunity to watch a safety video or attend a briefing session to learn more about what to expect during your experience.
Get Fitted for Equipment: After completing the paperwork, you’ll be fitted for the necessary equipment, including a jumpsuit, helmet, and goggles. Instructors will show you how to put on the equipment properly and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.
Receive Instruction: Before entering the wind tunnel, you’ll receive a brief instruction session from your instructor. They will teach you the basic body positions, such as how to arch your back, bend your knees, and position your arms and legs to maintain stability in the wind. You’ll also practice these positions on the ground to get a feel for them before entering the tunnel.
Enter the Wind Tunnel
When you’re ready, you’ll enter the wind tunnel with your instructor. They will go first to demonstrate the proper technique, and then it will be your turn. You’ll stand on the platform at the bottom of the tunnel, and the instructor will signal for the fans to be turned on. As the wind picks up, you’ll feel yourself being lifted off the ground and suspended in the air. Your instructor will be by your side throughout the session, providing guidance and helping you adjust your body position. They may also hold onto you to help you stay stable or to show you how to perform different maneuvers. Don’t worry if you feel a bit unsteady at first – it takes some practice to get the hang of it, but most people start to feel more comfortable after a few minutes.
Enjoy and Repeat
After your session, you’ll have the opportunity to talk to your instructor about how you did and ask any questions you may have. Many facilities also offer video footage of your session, which you can purchase to share with friends and family or to review your performance and see where you can improve. If you enjoyed your first experience, consider booking another session to continue practicing and improving your skills. You may even find that indoor skydiving becomes a new hobby or passion!
Conclusion
So, is indoor skydiving fun? The answer is a resounding yes! Whether you’re looking for a thrilling new experience, a safe way to try skydiving for the first time, or a fun activity to share with friends and family, indoor skydiving has something to offer everyone. The combination of the thrill of freefall, the accessibility and inclusivity of the activity, the opportunity to learn and develop new skills, and the social aspect all contribute to making indoor skydiving a highly enjoyable experience. Plus, with its excellent safety record and affordable pricing, there’s no reason not to give it a try. So why not take the plunge and experience the fun of indoor skydiving for yourself? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skydiver, you’re sure to have a blast in the wind tunnel. Who knows – you might just discover a new passion for flight!