## How Do You Land When Tandem Skydiving?
Tandem skydiving is an exhilarating experience that involves jumping out of an airplane with an experienced instructor attached to you. While the freefall and canopy flight are undoubtedly the most thrilling parts of the experience, landing is just as important to ensure a safe and successful jump. Here’s a detailed guide on how tandem skydiving landings are typically executed:
## Pre-Landing Preparations
1. Instructor Communication:
Before approaching the landing zone, your instructor will communicate the landing procedure to you. They will guide you on how to position your body and where to focus your attention.
2. Canopy Control:
The instructor will continue to control the canopy’s movement, adjusting the direction and speed as needed. Your role is to assist by steering the canopy slightly by shifting your weight in the direction you want to go.
## Landing Zone Approach
1. Flares:
As you approach the landing zone, your instructor will pull a series of flares to slow down the canopy. This helps stabilize the descent and makes the landing smoother.
2. Leg Drop:
Once the canopy is sufficiently slowed down, your instructor will instruct you to “leg drop,” which involves extending your legs straight down. This helps stabilize your body and prepares you for the impact.
3. Bend Your Knees:
As you get closer to the ground, your instructor will tell you to bend your knees slightly. This absorbs the impact of the landing and reduces stress on your joints.
4. Roll Over:
Immediately after touching down, your instructor will guide you to roll over onto your back. This helps dissipate the landing force and prevents you from falling forward.
## Landing Techniques
1. SLAM (Sit, Lift, Arch, Move):
The SLAM technique is commonly used for tandem skydiving landings. It involves:
– Sit: Sit upright in your harness, with your feet shoulder-width apart.
– Lift: Lift your toes off the ground.
– Arch: Arch your lower back and lift your hips slightly.
– Move: Step forward and land softly on your feet.
2. PLF (Parachute Landing Fall):
The PLF technique is more common in military or advanced skydiving. It involves:
– Roll Out: Land on the balls of your feet and roll forward onto your back.
– Group: Keep your knees together and your legs straight.
– Slide: Slide forward on your back until you come to a stop.
## Soft Landing Tips
1. Relax and Trust:
Trust your instructor’s guidance and relax your body. Tensing up can make landing more uncomfortable.
2. Follow Instructions:
Listen attentively to your instructor’s commands and follow them accurately.
3. Keep Your Head Up:
Avoid looking down at your feet or the ground. Keep your head up and focus on the horizon.
4. Breathe Regularly:
Controlled breathing helps calm your nerves and improves your coordination.
5. Practice:
If possible, practice landing techniques on a simulator before your actual jump.
## Emergency Procedures
In rare cases, an emergency situation may arise during the landing. If this happens, your instructor will take appropriate action. Here are some common emergency procedures:
1. Slip:
If the canopy is not turning or landing erratically, your instructor may perform a “slip.” This involves pulling one side of the canopy down to steer it in the desired direction.
2. Parachute Malfunction:
In the unlikely event of a parachute malfunction, your instructor will deploy a reserve parachute. The reserve parachute will open and allow for a safe landing.
## Conclusion
Landing in tandem skydiving is a crucial part of the experience that requires coordination between the tandem master and the passenger. By following the proper techniques and instructions, you can ensure a smooth and successful landing. Remember to relax, trust your instructor, and enjoy the thrilling ride all the way to the ground.
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