What to Know Before Jumping Back into Skydiving After a Break

When you’ve been away from the thrill of skydiving for over 90 days, it can feel like an eternity, can’t it? The excitement of freefalling through the sky is something that sticks with you, but so is the importance of safety and preparation. If you're a USPA B-License holder itching to jump back into the action, you need to know the first step you should take. Spoiler alert: it involves getting some supervision.

Let’s Get Started: What Is the Right Move?

If you find yourself in the position of rekindling your skydiving passion after a substantial break, the first course of action is clear: You should make at least one jump under the supervision of a USPA instructor. Sounds simple, right? But there’s a heap of reasons why this is so vital.

Why Supervision Matters

You might think, “I’ve been trained; can’t I just jump without supervision?” Well, here’s the thing: after a long gap, it's crucial to check your competency and comfort level in the air. Jumping without guidance can be risky. An instructor doesn’t just ensure you’re following safety protocols; they're helping you reacquaint yourself with the sky, the gear, and any new procedures or safety measures that may have come into play since your last leap.

The Importance of Keeping Skills Fresh

Your memory can be a bit fuzzy after months—or dare I say, years—of not jumping. When was the last time you practiced your emergency procedures? Do you remember the right way to check your equipment? A supervised jump isn't just about making sure you've got the basics down; it's about reassessing everything you’ve learned and aligning it with the current standards.

Other Options? Sure, But...

Now you might be wondering about attending a refresher training course or even completing a written exam. These steps can definitely be valuable, but they simply don’t replace that essential first supervised jump. Why? Because there’s no substitute for hands-on practice. It’s where rubber meets the road—or in this case, where feet meet the ground (or sky).

The Safety Net of an Instructor

Having an experienced USPA instructor by your side offers more than just a safety net; it provides an opportunity for real-time feedback. They can evaluate your skills firsthand, offer guidance, and ensure you’re ready to take on solo skydiving again. Plus, there's reassurance in knowing you have an expert with you—it's like having a trusty co-pilot on your thrilling ride through the clouds. You feel safer, and that boosts your confidence!

Get Ready to Fly

So, what’s your takeaway? Don’t rush into jumping solo if you’ve had a long break. Get back into the groove with a supervised jump. It’s a small step but an oh-so-important one on your journey back to the clouds. Skydiving is as much about community and support as it is about individual bravery, right? Embrace the process, enjoy the safety check, and soon enough, you’ll be back to soaring solo, feeling the wind against your face again.

In conclusion, remember that skydiving is not just a sport but a thrilling lifestyle that requires respect and commitment to be safe. So, get that supervised jump under your belt, and let your skydiving adventure unfold once more!