## How Far Do You Free Fall While Skydiving?
Skydiving is an adrenaline-pumping activity that involves jumping out of an airplane and experiencing the sensation of free fall. The amount of time you free fall depends on a number of factors, including the altitude from which you jump, your body weight, and the type of parachute you use.
### Free Fall Distance
The average skydiving jump takes place from an altitude of about 12,000 feet. At this altitude, you will free fall for approximately 60 seconds before your parachute opens. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking views and experience the thrill of free fall.
If you are a more experienced skydiver, you may choose to jump from a higher altitude, such as 15,000 feet or even 18,000 feet. This will give you a longer free fall time, but it is important to note that the higher you jump from, the colder it will be and the more oxygen you will need.
### Body Weight
Your body weight also affects how far you free fall. Heavier people will free fall faster than lighter people. This is because gravity pulls more strongly on heavier objects. As a result, heavier people will reach their terminal velocity, which is the maximum speed at which they can fall, more quickly than lighter people.
### Parachute Type
The type of parachute you use will also affect how far you free fall. Round parachutes, which are the most common type of parachute, open more quickly than square parachutes. This means that you will free fall for a shorter period of time if you are using a round parachute.
Square parachutes, on the other hand, open more slowly than round parachutes. This gives you a longer free fall time, but it is important to note that square parachutes are more difficult to control than round parachutes.
### Safety Considerations
It is important to note that skydiving is a potentially dangerous activity. Before you go skydiving, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take all necessary safety precautions. This includes wearing a helmet, using a properly fitted parachute, and being supervised by a qualified instructor.
### Conclusion
The amount of time you free fall while skydiving depends on a number of factors, including the altitude from which you jump, your body weight, and the type of parachute you use. The average skydiving jump takes place from an altitude of about 12,000 feet and lasts for approximately 60 seconds. However, more experienced skydivers may choose to jump from a higher altitude, which will give them a longer free fall time.