Skydiving is a sport enjoyed by those of all ages and different physical fitness levels. If you’re concerned about bad knees, or if you wear glasses, and wondering if you can still skydive, then you landed in the right spot (see what we did there?)! Skydiving is such a unique sport and although growing in popularity, is still misunderstood by the general public. If you’re wondering about skydiving and your health, this article will outline all the details of skydiving health requirements.
General Skydiving Requirements
Skydiving isn’t as physically demanding as other sports; however, there are a few requirements for skydiving. First, let’s take a look at the general skydiving requirements at Skydive WNY:
| Minimum Age | 18 years |
| Maximum Age | No limit* |
| Minimum Weight | No minimum |
| Maximum Weight | 230 pounds** |
| Glasses / Contacts | This is ok as long as you inform your instructor so they can give you the appropriate googles |
* Although there is no maximum age, we may require a doctor’s note for anyone’s age concerns
** Yes, we do take guests up to 230 pounds. However, if they are 210 pounds or more, they must be physically fit
Although skydiving is not a physically taxing sport, there are a few other physical requirements to consider. For solo or tandem skydiving, you’ll need to be able to hold the skydiving body position called the arch. This is where your hips are the lowest point, knees bent, and chin up. For tandem skydiving, you’ll also need to be able to lift your legs for the landing. For tandem landings, the instructor will have you lift your legs to clear leg space and avoid tripping each other up.
Skydiving Health
There is a slew of other common ailments to consider for skydiving. Things such as the common cold, bad knees, or a bad back. We made a simple chart to help determine if you are cleared to jump or need a doctor’s note below!
Health Concern Can I Skydive?
| Common Cold / Sinus Infection | No, you’ll need to schedule when your head is clear and not on any medication |
| Bad knees | You’ll need a doctor’s approval |
| Bad back | You’ll need a doctor’s approval |
| Arthritis | Yes, unless it impairs simple mobility. If it does impair mobility, you’ll need a doctor’s approval |
| Heart troubles | Unfortunately no. Skydiving is an adrenaline sport which means it pumps the heart. This is a serious concern for those with a heart condition. |
| High blood pressure | You’ll need a doctor’s approval |
| Asthma | Yes, but we will require a doctor’s approval, and if approved, you’ll need your inhaler |
Skydiving Health Risks
Skydiving is an inherently dangerous sport and there is no guarantee of safety. However, we do have protocols in place to mitigate those risks and one of them is to check in with our guests and their health.
Skydiving is an adrenaline-inducing activity that many have participated in throughout the years because of its popularity. However, it may not be safe for some with underlying health issues not mentioned above. Since we are not doctors, and if you have any questions or concerns about any other health issues, we highly advise you to seek out your physician’s advice.
COVID and Skydiving
We understand that COVID is far from over. We do require our guests to mask up. However, skydiving is a contact sport as tandem skydiving requires you to be harnessed to another person and in close proximity. This close contact heightens the risk of exposure, and by choosing to skydive, you assume the risks of potentially contracting COVID. Check out our FAQ’s for more information.
Conclusion
Skydiving is a wonderful sport and a great outlet activity close to home. Our goal is not only to provide a great service but to keep you and your safety in mind. If you have any questions or you’re ready to book this once-in-a-lifetime experience – give us a call or click! We’ll be happy to help!Do You Have to be Physically Fit to Skydive
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Skydiving Safety
WNYSkydiving is a member of the United States Parachute Association.
