Malev 0 #1 May 2, 2003 Hi, I'm now a week away from doing my first AFF jump (first jump ever as well) and have a couple of questions I hope someone might be able to answer! I've been reading through Mike Turoff/Dan Poynter's book The Skydiver's Handbook (which I would recommend to anyone else, its a bit US-centric but seems to be a good introduction to the basics, kit etc). Is there anything else that is an absolute must to read before the training though? What is the best thing to wear on the day (bearing in mind the Scottish weather )? Is it worth while planning to stay for both the Saturday and Sunday (i.e. is there a good chance of being able to do more of the course if the first part goes ok)? I am thinking of staying over in a B&B, because I will have to go up on the Friday, and although the DZ apparently has bunking arrangements I would like to have a good night's sleep before the hours of pretty critical training! I think thats all, unless anyone else has anything to point on on some of the frequent mistakes made by newbies that I might have missed. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites ccowden 0 #2 May 2, 2003 I think at this stage it is important not to over do things. Preparing is great, but dont get too far ahead of yourself. Just go with an open mind and be ready to learn. Do what you are taught and not what you think you should do. As far as kit- just wear whatever you would that day that is appropriate for the weather and a good pair of sneakers. They will give you a jump suit and provide everything you need kit wise. You may be able to do more training or maore jumps that same day or weekend. It is not unusual for a student to do 2 or 3 jumps in the first weekend. Good luck and relax! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Malev 0 #3 May 2, 2003 Quote I think at this stage it is important not to over do things. Preparing is great, but dont get too far ahead of yourself. I definetly see where you are coming from on this point, and have been trying to make sure I don't get into too much detail on the precise techniques. I've really been looking at the more basic stuff such as the terminology and kit, stuff that everyone no doubt takes for granted but are compeltely new ("burble" had me confused for a while, I started off thinking it was a piece of kit! ). Quote As far as kit- just wear whatever you would that day that is appropriate for the weather and a good pair of sneakers. I normally wear smart casual i.e. shirt, trousers. I would imagine that jeans/t-shirt style would be better and more comfortable under the jump suit thought? Quote You may be able to do more training or maore jumps that same day or weekend. It is not unusual for a student to do 2 or 3 jumps in the first weekend. That useful to know, and means it really is worth planning to stay for the whole weekend then rather than lookign at coming back on the Saturday night. Quote Good luck and relax! Thanks! I'm a little less nervous than I was when I first signed up, but expect to be bricking it when it actually comes to jumoing out the plane (not that thats a bad thing!). Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites ccowden 0 #4 May 2, 2003 Yes, jeans and t shirt would be better. You certainly don't wnat to be over dressed. Wear something that will be comfortable under a jumpsuit. If it is warm, I highly suggest shorts and a t shirt. Jeans can be a bit restricting if the suit is tight. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites tombuch 0 #5 May 2, 2003 QuoteThe Skydiver's Handbook (which I would recommend to anyone else, its a bit US-centric but seems to be a good introduction to the basics, kit etc). Is there anything else that is an absolute must to read before the training though? Have fun on your first jump. I'll try to address a few of your questions... Yes, plan on staying for two days. You will probably make that first jump on Saturday, and Sunday then becomes available for the second jump (or third). I also think you will enjoy hanging out at the drop zone. The B&B is probably a good idea if dollars are tight, but the bunk house will also work for you. What to wear? Regular clothes with a good pair of sneakers or light hiking boots. If it's chilly bring a jacket or sweatshirt. Be comfortable. If you wear contact lenses, bring an extra pair of you have them...that's not critical, but is generally a good idea. You will be provided with a jumpsuit and anything else you may need. The Skydivers Handbook is a good read, and you are right, it is US-centric. Books need to target a specific market and the US market is the biggest. I actually just wrote a book myself targeted at people like you, called JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy (McGraw-Hill 2003), and found it takes far too much space to explain the differences between all the different national markets and programs. The concept behind such a book is to provide an overview of training, and then allow the reader to seek out differences in his home market. I actually tried to include Canada in my text, but even that one extra country added confusion, and created more questions than answers. If you have a chance, do pick up my book, JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy, but know that it too is US-centric.JUMP! is available through many online retailers including Amazon.com. Blue Skies, Tom BuchananTom Buchanan Instructor Emeritus Comm Pilot MSEL,G Author: JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Malev 0 #6 May 8, 2003 QuoteThe B&B is probably a good idea if dollars are tight, but the bunk house will also work for you. To be honest, the B&B is more about knowing I can have a good night's sleep before the basic training (I have no idea what the bink house atmosphere would be like). I'll sound out the DZ anyway, so I know what to do next time. QuoteWhat to wear? Regular clothes with a good pair of sneakers or light hiking boots. If it's chilly bring a jacket or sweatshirt. Ok, so jeans, t-shirt, trainers (and gloves). Its pretty much guaranteed to be chilly (this is Scotland), so I don't know whether you can get away with wearing much else in terms of layers under the jumpsuit? QuoteIf you wear contact lenses, bring an extra pair of you have them...that's not critical, but is generally a good idea. I do wear contacts, so that is a very good point. I'll make sure to bring some spares. Sorry if I'm covering old ground here, I just want to make sure I'm on top of things! Cheers, Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites andy2 0 #7 May 8, 2003 definitely if its chilly on the ground its going to be VERY cold up in the air. Think about it, as you gain altitude, it gets COLDER. I was jumping the last week and it was 75 on the ground, but it was slightly cloudy, lots of percipitation in the air, and when we got to altitude my hands were cold as shit. Just call ahead and ask your DZO or instructor what he thinks, they're your best bet for good information specific to their DZ. --------------------------------------------- let my inspiration flow, in token rhyme suggesting rhythm... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Malev 0 #8 May 8, 2003 Quote I was jumping the last week and it was 75 on the ground, but it was slightly cloudy, lots of percipitation in the air, and when we got to altitude my hands were cold as shit. Forecast is currently for 15*C (59*F) so its not too bad (comparatively speaking). But it does mean its going to be absolutely baltic up there. Quote Just call ahead and ask your DZO or instructor what he thinks, they're your best bet for good information specific to their DZ. Stupidly obvious answer, which of course I didn't think about! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites nacmacfeegle 0 #9 May 9, 2003 From memory, your coming up to St Andrews right? Okay, the East Neuk of Fife can get some really nice warm weather, you'd be surprised, its one of those micro climate things.....But I'd recommend you bring a pair of tracky bottoms, they will be more comfy than jeans, I doubt you will need shorts. Trainers, will be fine footwear, a couple of tee shirts, sweat shirts etc and a fleece, it can get chilly. The classrooms are relatively warm, nearly all your training will be indoors, with periods of hanging around outside watching stuff. Maybe a lightweight jacket would be useful. The plane has a door and heat, so the ride to alt shouldn't be too bad, think a couple of layers... Finally, you know where you are going right? if you want maps etc PM me. I'll be down there this weekend, I'll look out for you. -------------------- He who receives an idea from me, receives instruction himself without lessening mine; as he who lights his taper at mine, receives light without darkening me. Thomas Jefferson Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Malev 0 #10 May 9, 2003 Quote From memory, your coming up to St Andrews right? Yep thats right. Quote I'd recommend you bring a pair of tracky bottoms, they will be more comfy than jeans, I doubt you will need shorts. Trainers, will be fine footwear, a couple of tee shirts, sweat shirts etc and a fleece, it can get chilly. Right, I'll pop out at lunchtime and get some tracky bottoms (I haven't worn any in years! ). I should be able to get by with the rest. Quote The plane has a door and heat, so the ride to alt shouldn't be too bad, think a couple of layers... Thats not so bad then, the plane ride was the part I was most worried about (in terms of being cold I mean). Quote Finally, you know where you are going right? if you want maps etc PM me. I'll be down there this weekend, I'll look out for you. I'm taking the train over tonight (Friday), and I'll grab a taxi from Leuchars - so as long as they know where to go I should be ok. I'll hopefully see you around then, I'm Tom by the way. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Join the conversation You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible. Reply to this topic... × Pasted as rich text. Paste as plain text instead Only 75 emoji are allowed. × Your link has been automatically embedded. 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ccowden 0 #2 May 2, 2003 I think at this stage it is important not to over do things. Preparing is great, but dont get too far ahead of yourself. Just go with an open mind and be ready to learn. Do what you are taught and not what you think you should do. As far as kit- just wear whatever you would that day that is appropriate for the weather and a good pair of sneakers. They will give you a jump suit and provide everything you need kit wise. You may be able to do more training or maore jumps that same day or weekend. It is not unusual for a student to do 2 or 3 jumps in the first weekend. Good luck and relax! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Malev 0 #3 May 2, 2003 Quote I think at this stage it is important not to over do things. Preparing is great, but dont get too far ahead of yourself. I definetly see where you are coming from on this point, and have been trying to make sure I don't get into too much detail on the precise techniques. I've really been looking at the more basic stuff such as the terminology and kit, stuff that everyone no doubt takes for granted but are compeltely new ("burble" had me confused for a while, I started off thinking it was a piece of kit! ). Quote As far as kit- just wear whatever you would that day that is appropriate for the weather and a good pair of sneakers. I normally wear smart casual i.e. shirt, trousers. I would imagine that jeans/t-shirt style would be better and more comfortable under the jump suit thought? Quote You may be able to do more training or maore jumps that same day or weekend. It is not unusual for a student to do 2 or 3 jumps in the first weekend. That useful to know, and means it really is worth planning to stay for the whole weekend then rather than lookign at coming back on the Saturday night. Quote Good luck and relax! Thanks! I'm a little less nervous than I was when I first signed up, but expect to be bricking it when it actually comes to jumoing out the plane (not that thats a bad thing!). Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ccowden 0 #4 May 2, 2003 Yes, jeans and t shirt would be better. You certainly don't wnat to be over dressed. Wear something that will be comfortable under a jumpsuit. If it is warm, I highly suggest shorts and a t shirt. Jeans can be a bit restricting if the suit is tight. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tombuch 0 #5 May 2, 2003 QuoteThe Skydiver's Handbook (which I would recommend to anyone else, its a bit US-centric but seems to be a good introduction to the basics, kit etc). Is there anything else that is an absolute must to read before the training though? Have fun on your first jump. I'll try to address a few of your questions... Yes, plan on staying for two days. You will probably make that first jump on Saturday, and Sunday then becomes available for the second jump (or third). I also think you will enjoy hanging out at the drop zone. The B&B is probably a good idea if dollars are tight, but the bunk house will also work for you. What to wear? Regular clothes with a good pair of sneakers or light hiking boots. If it's chilly bring a jacket or sweatshirt. Be comfortable. If you wear contact lenses, bring an extra pair of you have them...that's not critical, but is generally a good idea. You will be provided with a jumpsuit and anything else you may need. The Skydivers Handbook is a good read, and you are right, it is US-centric. Books need to target a specific market and the US market is the biggest. I actually just wrote a book myself targeted at people like you, called JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy (McGraw-Hill 2003), and found it takes far too much space to explain the differences between all the different national markets and programs. The concept behind such a book is to provide an overview of training, and then allow the reader to seek out differences in his home market. I actually tried to include Canada in my text, but even that one extra country added confusion, and created more questions than answers. If you have a chance, do pick up my book, JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy, but know that it too is US-centric.JUMP! is available through many online retailers including Amazon.com. Blue Skies, Tom BuchananTom Buchanan Instructor Emeritus Comm Pilot MSEL,G Author: JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Malev 0 #6 May 8, 2003 QuoteThe B&B is probably a good idea if dollars are tight, but the bunk house will also work for you. To be honest, the B&B is more about knowing I can have a good night's sleep before the basic training (I have no idea what the bink house atmosphere would be like). I'll sound out the DZ anyway, so I know what to do next time. QuoteWhat to wear? Regular clothes with a good pair of sneakers or light hiking boots. If it's chilly bring a jacket or sweatshirt. Ok, so jeans, t-shirt, trainers (and gloves). Its pretty much guaranteed to be chilly (this is Scotland), so I don't know whether you can get away with wearing much else in terms of layers under the jumpsuit? QuoteIf you wear contact lenses, bring an extra pair of you have them...that's not critical, but is generally a good idea. I do wear contacts, so that is a very good point. I'll make sure to bring some spares. Sorry if I'm covering old ground here, I just want to make sure I'm on top of things! Cheers, Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
andy2 0 #7 May 8, 2003 definitely if its chilly on the ground its going to be VERY cold up in the air. Think about it, as you gain altitude, it gets COLDER. I was jumping the last week and it was 75 on the ground, but it was slightly cloudy, lots of percipitation in the air, and when we got to altitude my hands were cold as shit. Just call ahead and ask your DZO or instructor what he thinks, they're your best bet for good information specific to their DZ. --------------------------------------------- let my inspiration flow, in token rhyme suggesting rhythm... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Malev 0 #8 May 8, 2003 Quote I was jumping the last week and it was 75 on the ground, but it was slightly cloudy, lots of percipitation in the air, and when we got to altitude my hands were cold as shit. Forecast is currently for 15*C (59*F) so its not too bad (comparatively speaking). But it does mean its going to be absolutely baltic up there. Quote Just call ahead and ask your DZO or instructor what he thinks, they're your best bet for good information specific to their DZ. Stupidly obvious answer, which of course I didn't think about! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
nacmacfeegle 0 #9 May 9, 2003 From memory, your coming up to St Andrews right? Okay, the East Neuk of Fife can get some really nice warm weather, you'd be surprised, its one of those micro climate things.....But I'd recommend you bring a pair of tracky bottoms, they will be more comfy than jeans, I doubt you will need shorts. Trainers, will be fine footwear, a couple of tee shirts, sweat shirts etc and a fleece, it can get chilly. The classrooms are relatively warm, nearly all your training will be indoors, with periods of hanging around outside watching stuff. Maybe a lightweight jacket would be useful. The plane has a door and heat, so the ride to alt shouldn't be too bad, think a couple of layers... Finally, you know where you are going right? if you want maps etc PM me. I'll be down there this weekend, I'll look out for you. -------------------- He who receives an idea from me, receives instruction himself without lessening mine; as he who lights his taper at mine, receives light without darkening me. Thomas Jefferson Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Malev 0 #10 May 9, 2003 Quote From memory, your coming up to St Andrews right? Yep thats right. Quote I'd recommend you bring a pair of tracky bottoms, they will be more comfy than jeans, I doubt you will need shorts. Trainers, will be fine footwear, a couple of tee shirts, sweat shirts etc and a fleece, it can get chilly. Right, I'll pop out at lunchtime and get some tracky bottoms (I haven't worn any in years! ). I should be able to get by with the rest. Quote The plane has a door and heat, so the ride to alt shouldn't be too bad, think a couple of layers... Thats not so bad then, the plane ride was the part I was most worried about (in terms of being cold I mean). Quote Finally, you know where you are going right? if you want maps etc PM me. I'll be down there this weekend, I'll look out for you. I'm taking the train over tonight (Friday), and I'll grab a taxi from Leuchars - so as long as they know where to go I should be ok. I'll hopefully see you around then, I'm Tom by the way. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
