AboutMike Turoff Expertise expert/master parachutist and an Instructor Examiner in the sport of Skydiving. Mike is a licensed (jump) pilot and parachute rigger, who is an analytical chemist in the "regular working world." As a dedicated instructor, Mike has made over 3,400 jumps since 1977. Mike has contributed to many of the training materials and exams used by USPA and the sport. He has authored numerous articles dealing with safety and training practices that have appeared in both Parachutist and Skydiving magazines. Mike participates as an evaluator at AFF Training Camps and Certification Courses and is a rated to perform Tandem instruction using both the Relative Workshop and Strong Enterprises gear. Mike is co-author of "Parachuting, The Skydiver`s Handbook and the CD-ROM text for "Skydiving, A Multimedia Reference."
Question Dear Mike,
Thanks for taking time to read my question.
I've been playing with the idea of skydiving for some time now but what I am MOST afraid of is that I would get up in the plane and then be too afraid to actually jump, and would have wasted money, time and pride. Is there some sort of way I could test myself beforehand to see if I'm ready or capable? Anything you might recommend trying?
And, last question, what do you think most people overlook or not realize when they first consider skydiving?
Thanks,
Bevin
Answer Register at a local skydiving center for a Tandem Jump as an introduction into the sport. You will be carried aloft and out of the aircraft by a highly experienced skydiver and treated to the thrill beyond words.
Most people overlook how much fun life can be and skydiving enhances their appreciation of life. It truly gives you a whole different outlook on life.
To learn more about the sport, grab a copy of "Parachuting, The Skydiver's Handbook" from a library or from the www.parapublishing.com website.
