## How Long Do You Freefall for Skydiving?
Skydiving is an exhilarating sport that involves jumping out of an airplane and experiencing the feeling of freefall. The length of the freefall depends on several factors, including the altitude of the jump, the type of parachute used, and the skill of the skydiver.
### Altitude of the Jump
The higher the altitude of the jump, the longer the freefall will be. This is because it takes more time for the skydiver to reach terminal velocity, which is the maximum speed that an object can fall through the air. At sea level, terminal velocity is about 120 miles per hour (193 kilometers per hour). However, at higher altitudes, the air is less dense, so terminal velocity is lower. For example, at an altitude of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters), terminal velocity is about 100 miles per hour (161 kilometers per hour).
### Type of Parachute Used
The type of parachute used also affects the length of the freefall. Round parachutes, which are the most common type of parachute used for skydiving, create more drag than other types of parachutes. This drag slows the skydiver down and shortens the freefall. Square parachutes, which are used for more advanced skydiving, create less drag and allow the skydiver to freefall for longer.
### Skill of the Skydiver
The skill of the skydiver also plays a role in the length of the freefall. Experienced skydivers are able to control their body position and slow their descent by arching their back and spreading their arms and legs. This allows them to freefall for longer than less experienced skydivers.
### Typical Freefall Times
The typical freefall time for a skydive from an altitude of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) is about 45 seconds. However, freefall times can vary from 30 seconds to 60 seconds or more, depending on the factors discussed above.
### How to Extend Your Freefall Time
There are a few things you can do to extend your freefall time, including:
Jumping from a higher altitude. The higher you jump from, the longer you will freefall.
Using a square parachute. Square parachutes create less drag than round parachutes, so they allow you to freefall for longer.
Learning to control your body position. By arching your back and spreading your arms and legs, you can slow your descent and freefall for longer.
### Safety Considerations
It is important to remember that skydiving is a dangerous sport. It is important to make sure that you are properly trained and that you are using the appropriate equipment before you jump. Always skydive with a licensed instructor and follow all safety procedures.