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First B.A.S.E Jump Course!
By: Jesse Hall
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The typical progression to begin base jumping starts with around 200 skydives from an aircraft. If skydiving is going well for you, and you feel like you want to spice it up, you can take a (FJC), or "First Jump Course" from someone who has been active in the sport for a long time and is qualified to teach the theory, nuance and practical skills necessary to stay smiling. The course will usually take place at a bridge , which tends to be the safest type of of the 4 objects to jump from.
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During the course, students will learn how to pack their BASE parachute, which is different from a skydiving parachute. One of the main and most obvious differences is that it's typically larger and more reliable, but.... the system has no reserve parachute. But one of the main objectives during a FJC is for students to begin by learning how to assemble and maintain their gear safely.
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After reviewing possible malfunctions and ideal landing patterns for a particular object, students will make their first jump from the bridge.
The instructor typically performs a "pilot chute assist" (PCA), in which they hold the small parachute that opens the main and larger parachute. This commonly used method will open the canopy as fast as possible, and gives the student as much time to get used to their parachute's characteristics as they make their first jump.
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The next step.... if things are going smoothly.... is called a "handheld jump". The student will hold the pilot chute in their hand and shortly after jumping, will throw it into the open air. This gives the student more control, a little more free fall, and more freedom from the instructor's helping hand.
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Behind the scenes, the instructor teaches the students about risk management and object assessment. BASE jumping is not a sport to be taken lightly... and has very serious consequences, obviously. Each jumper must make the choice for themselves. It goes without saying that self-reliance and accountability are foundational cornerstones of the choice to BASE jump.
Every time they wish to step off something, each jumper must assess the weather and their mental sharpness, and then decide to make the leap or not. Reaction time is imperative and not over-estimating your abilities for any given situation is a requisite.
Stack the variables in your favor, focus and commit.
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It's also important to be honest with yourself and decide if it’s really for you..... or you just want to continue enjoying all there is to learn and experience in Skydiving.
BASE jumping has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life and that is why I choose to teach the next generation of baby-birds to send it!
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