Skydiving Myths & Misconceptions BUSTED

Key Takeaways

There are many skydiving myths like being unable to breathe during freefall or that all skydivers are young and crazy, but most of these myths are based on speculation rather than fact. Skydivers come from all walks of life and represent all ages. Keep reading to learn why skydiving does not feel like a roller coaster, that fainting and getting sick are uncommon, and that you don’t go up when the parachute opens!

Skydiving is awesome, and like all awesome things, people love to talk about it. But how much of that talk actually describes a skydive, and how much is just speculation? We’re here to bust some of the most common skydiving myths, answering your burning questions like, “Does skydiving feel like a rollercoaster?” and “Can you breathe in freefall?” Keep reading to learn the real parachuting facts.

Myth 1: Skydiving Feels Like a Roller Coaster

Does your stomach drop when skydiving? We hear this question all the time – people don’t want to skydive because they hate that stomach-dropping sensation on a roller coaster. We understand why you think you’ll get that drop sensation in freefall, but that’s actually not what happens on a skydive. 

When you exit the plane, it’s already moving forward at a high speed, which means you’ll make a smooth transition into freefall without that roller coaster lurch. If anything, it’s the parachute flight that can feel more like an amusement park ride – especially if you ask your tandem instructor to take you on some fun spirals! 

Now, the question of if skydiving is scarier than roller coasters is for you to decide …

Myth 2: You Can’t Breathe During Freefall

This one is definitely not true! It’s actually pretty easy to breathe despite what some people may worry about given the rush of wind. The good news: your body quickly adapts to the intense airflow. 

If you have that breathless feeling, try yelling or screaming on the way down. First of all, it’s fun, and secondly, it naturally helps you take a full breath in. Practicing mindful, steady breaths can also help if you’re feeling nervous.

Myth 3: It’s Common to Faint

Nope! With proper nutrition and hydration, it’s not common to faint during a skydive. Now, do skydivers ever pass out? Of course it’s possible and does happen on rare occasions, usually due to factors like dehydration before the skydive.

Luckily, we have some great technology like Automatic Activation Devices (AADs) that save lives by deploying the reserve parachute automatically at a certain altitude if a jumper hasn’t done so on their own. While these AADs are rarely used, it’s great peace of mind to know there’s an extra level of precaution in all tandem skydiving gear.

Myth 4: You’ll Get Sick While Skydiving

Just like fainting, getting sick during a skydive is rare. Unlike bumpy rollercoasters that whip you in different directions at high speeds, skydiving freefall is smooth. During the parachute ride, there’s a possibility for big turns and spirals, but these are usually optional. If you’re prone to motion sickness, just chat with your instructor first. They’ll make sure to keep the ride more gentle and relaxing for you.

Myth 5: You Have to Be Young to Skydive

Absolutely not! You just have to be in decent shape and at least 18 years old. The oldest tandem skydiver actually jumped 3 times after turning 100 years old, with his latest jump at 106! 

In fact, you’ll find licensed solo jumpers in their 70s and 80s at many dropzones across the country, enjoying their retirement in the sky. Skydiving is less about your age and much more about your mindset: are you ready to try something new?

Myth 6: Skydivers Are All Crazy

Is skydiving a red flag? Absolutely not – it shows a willingness to try new things and conquer fears! Most skydivers, whether tandem students or licensed jumpers, are just normal people who have a passion for adventure. The psychology behind all extreme sports is similar – people are naturally drawn to experiences that challenge them and make them feel present.

So, what does skydiving say about a person? Being a skydiver shows that person is open to growth, adventure, and conquering fears. Far from a red flag, skydivers come from all walks of life to experience a sense of true freedom.

Myth 7: There Are 2 Parachutes, So Parachute Failures Must Be Common

There’s two parachutes just in case, not because parachute failures are common! In 2024, an estimated 12% of United States Parachute Association (USPA) members reported using their reserve parachute. That number has stayed relatively consistent, between 10% and 13% since 2015. 

How risky is tandem skydiving, really? There’s of course inherent risk to the sport, but it’s carefully calculated and managed. With modern equipment, highly trained instructors, and strict safety standards, skydiving is one of the more controlled extreme experiences you can have.

Myth 8: You Go Up When the Parachute Opens

We get this question a lot, and we get why. When you watch your friend’s skydiving video, it looks like they just went up after the parachute deployed! But nope, it just looks like this because once the parachute opens, you’re falling slower than the person taking the video. You don’t go “up” – you just slow down!

Fact: You’re Ready to Skydive!

What’s the hardest thing about skydiving? The anticipation! It’s totally normal to be nervous, especially with all these skydiving myths circulating. Skydiving may seem scary, but most people say the plane ride up is the scariest part! Once they’re out of the door, they just feel free. 

Now that we’ve clarified some of our favorite fun facts about skydiving, we hope you’re ready to join us at Wisconsin Skydiving Center! Book your tandem skydive today.