Another newbie. All the questions.

[MikeKTT 0]

Hi everyone!

So, I made the decision. It's been a while since i've been this enthused about something... before this it was travel, and i've had a great time seeing some of the world, but I feel it's about time I took up an adrenaline sport, and nothing appeals to me more than Skydiving, and of course these two things can be combined, which is great!

I have my first static-line jump booked for April 6th, weather permitting (I'm in Scotland... the weather here is pretty hit and miss) and i'm fairly sure that I'll be back at the airfield the following weekend to take the next jump. And the next... And the next.

I have a few questions about the costs, timeframes of training, and gear, so here goes.

I am told that it will take AT LEAST 18 jumps for me to reach an intermediate level, which is the point I can arrange my own jumps without an instructor present. Not that I want to walk before I can crawl, I'm happy for all the training, help and advice I can get, but is this a realistic amount of jumps between starting out and being able to make my own arrangements?

I am also told that my 6th jump could be my first freefall providing I follow instructions and don't get anything wrong as I start. To say that i'm excited about that prospect is an understatement! Can anyone shed some light on what the common mistakes made by rookies are so I can be aware and conscious of them rather than making small but significant errors?

My first jumps, before I reach this intermediate level, will cost me £39 ($58) each... some of this cost being gear rental and packing, etc. At what point is it worth considering buying my own gear, and what concerns should I have towards buying second hand?

Thanks everyone, and hello!

[pincheck 0]

Hi Mike i sent you the pm with Links mate so it may help you static line tends to take longer than the 18 jumps i believe. which is why i binned it, as i never got onto delays and was short of patience for freefall. To be honest 18 sounds about right for A AFF course but the bpa website will give you full details on what's required. As its been a long while since i did it .

you will make mistakes i always looked down instead of up and at the instructor as i left. Just have fun mate
Wait till you at least achieve you A before even considering buying gear you can pick up little bits but wait till you speak to the instructors who take you to see what to buy, they can also point you to places you can buy as well

Base layers by the way for Scotland I wear thin Rab top or American Armour ro fight the cold off


good luck

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