Skydiving - True Extreme

Skydiver The ancient, timeless dream of mankind to experience the sensation of flight became a reality with the creation of the first parachute. Since then, the number of enthusiasts for this extreme sport has steadily grown. Thrill-seekers choose skydiving for the chance to test themselves in the air. Upon leaving the airplane, a person experiences freefall, descending at a stunning speed of 180–200 km/h. The parachute halts this rapid descent, allowing for a smooth, controlled approach to the ground. But what drives people to leave the comfort of their homes and strive skyward, closer to the clouds?

At Bird’s Eye Altitude

The desire to have unique sensations, to feel the rush of adrenaline and the indescribable joy of flying through air currents, plays a significant role—but that’s only one side of the coin. Equally important is the motivation to prove to oneself, “I can do it.” To challenge the forces of nature, overcome the fear of heights , and step into boundless open airspace is something not everyone can achieve.

Only those who conquer not just the altitude, but also their inner fears, gain a confidence in their abilities that no obstacle in life can deter, and every problem finds a solution.

This is why parachuting is rightly considered a sport for courageous and strong-willed individuals who cannot be broken by challenges. It’s not surprising that even in ancient times, people sought ways to prove that the power of thought can challenge the force of gravity.

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How It All Began

Leonardo da Vinci's Parachute In Leonardo da Vinci’s manuscripts dating back to 1495, there is a description of descending from heights using a pre-starched square-shaped cloth with sides measuring 12 cubits. Two centuries later, a similar concept was described by Faust Vrančić, and shortly thereafter, a French prisoner named Laven tested a handmade parachute to escape from prison.

The eighteenth century was marked by an experimental jump from the roof of an observatory in the city of Montpellier, after which parachutes began to be used as safety devices for balloon flights. By the early 20th century, parachutes became an integral part of aviator equipment, which marked the beginning of parachuting’s growth into a widespread sport. Today, this sport has several specialized disciplines.

Modern Types of Parachuting

Classic Skydiving: This discipline comprises two events—precision landing and performing a series of maneuvers during freefall.
Group Acrobatics: The most visually impressive discipline, featuring team competitions to form intricate aerial formations. The winning team is the one that creates the most formations within a set time limit.
Freestyle: Involves two team members performing aerial tricks headfirst while a third team member records the acrobatics on camera.
Canopy Formation: In this discipline, a team of four or eight athletes builds formations using parachute canopies. The team that creates the most formations (known among skydivers as “formations”) wins.

All these types of parachuting require a certain amount of training and skill development. But you can start with a simple jump, preparation for which takes just a single session. Considering you’ve come to the airfield with a firm determination to take the risk and feel the magical power of soaring in the sky, that’s enough to make your first jump.

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A Step into the Sky

Skydiving Jump
In addition to strictly following all the instructions provided by the instructor, it wouldn’t hurt to consider a few tips that can eliminate any misunderstandings before the jump.

Almost anyone can skydive, except individuals suffering from epilepsy and high blood pressure. Likewise, people under the influence of drugs or alcohol are not allowed to participate in flights.

Those who wear contact lenses must inform their instructor, who will provide protective goggles to ensure safety.

When it comes to clothing, it is advisable to choose garments made from durable fabric and ensure they fully cover the body. And, of course, don’t wear brand-new clothes, as they might get stained or torn during landing.

Try to arrive at the airfield in advance, as this will give you enough time for the medical screening and the final briefing.

Your first descent with a parachute will turn your ordinary world upside down: you’ll experience a surge of adrenaline so intense that it will make this moment unforgettable for the rest of your life. Just imagine yourself flying high above the ground, overcoming the wind’s resistance, and touching the clouds with your hands. There’s nothing that can compare to the feeling of soaring, a sensation you’ll want to relive again and again. To experience this incredible state of mind and body, all you need is the courage to take the leap under the canopy of a parachute.