## How Fast Are You Free Falling When Skydiving?
Skydiving is an exhilarating sport that involves jumping from a plane and free falling through the air. The speed at which you fall depends on a number of factors, including your weight, body position, and the altitude from which you jump.
### Factors Affecting Free Fall Speed
Weight
The heavier you are, the faster you will fall. This is because gravity exerts a greater force on heavier objects.
Body Position
Your body position can also affect your free fall speed. If you fall headfirst, you will experience more air resistance than if you fall feetfirst. This is because the air has a harder time flowing around your body when you are falling headfirst.
Altitude
The higher you jump from, the faster you will fall. This is because the air is less dense at higher altitudes, so there is less air resistance to slow you down.
### Terminal Velocity
At a certain point, your free fall speed will reach a maximum value called terminal velocity. Terminal velocity is the speed at which the force of gravity pulling you down is equal to the force of air resistance pushing you up.
The terminal velocity for a skydiver is typically around 120 mph (193 kph). However, this can vary depending on the factors discussed above.
### How to Control Your Free Fall Speed
There are a few things you can do to control your free fall speed:
Spread your arms and legs. This will increase your air resistance and slow you down.
Pull your arms and legs in. This will decrease your air resistance and speed you up.
Lean forward or back. This will change your body position and affect your air resistance.
By practicing these techniques, you can learn to control your free fall speed and have a more enjoyable skydiving experience.
### Safety Considerations
It is important to remember that skydiving is a dangerous sport. Always consult with a qualified instructor before attempting to skydive.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Only skydive with a certified instructor.
Make sure you have the proper equipment.
Be aware of the risks involved.
Do not attempt to skydive if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
By following these safety tips, you can help to reduce the risks associated with skydiving.
## Enjoy the Experience!
If you are considering skydiving, I encourage you to do your research and find a qualified instructor. Skydiving is an amazing experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Just be sure to take the necessary precautions to stay safe.