Physical training?

[MarkM 0]

Any of you guys do any sort of physical training or stretches to keep in shape for skydiving?
I haven't dove in a while and will be starting back up with a 3 day tunnel camp in March. I'm rowing about 3-5k a day for strength, but I'm conerned that I won't be getting all the muscles I'll be using during training. I don't want to be so sore after the first day in the tunnel that I'm less useful the other 2 days.
Are there certain stretches that will help? One of my old instructors suggested Yoga to me, and I have a beginners book on it, but are there certain asanas I should be focusing on?

[skybytch 273]

Yoga is the way to go from what I've heard, and I've also heard that working the entire body is key.
pull and flare,
lisa
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[nacmacfeegle 0]

Yup stretching before any sporting activity is highly recommended. I stretch every morning before jumping, it really helps cos I am a big guy, but not really that supple. You will be surprised the difference it makes to your jumping. It might even save you a wee sprain or worse.
Okay....
Go to www.skydivemag.com type in 'stretch' in the search window, and check out the stuff in there. There is a good article by Dave Eardley in the Feb 98 issue.
There's also loads of stuff and advice on prepping for training that should help you get the most from your tunnel time.
Enjoy
D.

[AggieDave 6]

I do a lot of power lifting and weight lifting. You can try starting with the big 3 and work up from there. You know, Squats, Deadlift and Flat Bench. Well, I guess the only thing that would help with skydiving is your fall rate, actually.
For skydiving, Yoga is the definate way to go, great stretching and muscle toning. If you find that your arms and back are very tired after a day of jumping, then you might want to try some strengthing excersises for your back/shoulders/triceps/biceps. If you want me to, over e-mail I could ask you some questions about your current physical ability and come up with a good work-out routine for you level.
Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom.-General George Patton-

[skymedic 0]

I just started yoga about a month ago...I thought "oh how hard can this stuff be" well my class started with "beginner" stuff....well let me tell you I am afraid of the "intermediate" stuff...I was dead beat after just 45 minutes class....shit....It really is good...but let me tell you even after only 4 weeks of this twice a week...I am MUCH more flexible....and feel more fit too...it really is a good workout...
marc
"...a mind stretched with new idea's will never regain its shape"

[weid14 0]

just remember that stretching a cold muscle is bad! warm up before doing any stretching... light jogging, jumping jacks, whatever it takes to break a slight sweat..

[MarkM 0]

Thanks for the advice guys. Found a local Hatha Yoga class and I'll give them a call tomorrow. I needed an extra hobby anyway.

[Nick 0]

I've been planning to ask this question too, you've beaten me to it.
Cheers for the info guys.
Nick

[RemiAndKaren 0]

hehehe... you guys are funny... like if skydiving required one to be in good shape! lol
Remi
Muff 914

[jfields 0]

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like if skydiving required one to be in good shape! lol

Exactly, Remi! What are they thinking, actually working to decrease their aerodynamic efficiency? Justin

[Jessica 0]

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and will be starting back up with a 3 day tunnel camp in March.

Hey Mark -- which one? I'm March 7-9.
Pet me! I'm harmless and cute!

[MarkM 0]

I'm the 10-12th.