Whether you're a thrill-seeking would-be tandem passenger or a dyed-in-the-wool sport skydiver, Georgia has what it takes to add some dazzling free-fall antics to your active vacation. There's a skydiving drop zone (DZ) ready to satisfy your adrenaline craving in every part of the state, so shine up those goggles and head south!
Why Georgia?
Georgia is teeming with fun things to do on an active vacation, and the state's drop zones are all close to those pursuits. Four are within 50 miles of Atlanta, and all of them are within reach of at least a few of Georgia's 700-plus rock climbing routes. Skydive Monroe and Skydive Atlanta are near great golf and fishing. Skydive The Farm and the Atlanta Skydiving Center are both a manageable drive from the multitude of outdoor activities at the Talladega National Forest. The Jumping Place is a scant two miles from the Atlantic coast.
Finding A Safe DZ
While most of Georgia's DZs are current United States Parachute Association (USPA) members, some of them are not. To make an informed decision regarding which drop zone to visit, know the difference.
USPA member DZs have each pledged to follow the USPA's BSRs (Basic Safety Requirements), use USPA-required safety equipment, offer standardized first-jump training methods and ensure that they use USPA-rated skydiving instructors. Non-member drop zones may be comparatively careful, but their standards are solely self-regulated.
What To Expect
Travelers can expect to find at least a tent site at any drop zone in the States, and Georgia is no exception. Beyond that, it's not at all uncommon for the drop zone's facilities to include dorm-style bunkhouses, a laundry, a canteen, showers, RV hookups and free Wi-Fi. Facilities vary widely between drop zones, so be sure to call and ask about the specific DZ's available amenities before you go.
DZ Fitness Opportunities
Skydiving is a demanding, serious sport. As such, it's generally easy to find a workout opportunity at any drop zone. On-site gym facilities are rarely available, so fitness opportunities on the DZ are generally outdoorsy. Impromptu groups often organize adventures to nearby recreational areas. If there isn't an outing in the planning process when you arrive at the DZ, the office can point you in the direction of a great running route or bicycle path--and other skydivers will likely be more than happy to join you for yoga or a jog.
Preparing For Your Jump
Both new and experienced skydivers must always remember that mindfulness of the breath is a key part of any great jump. Scores of seasoned skydivers recommend a daily practice of yoga breath work ("Pranayama") to support optimum performance in the sky. Skydiving expert Brian Germain has written extensively about the benefits of breath work for skydivers.
New skydivers especially should integrate breath work into their fitness program as soon as possible before the planned jump. With practice, you'll use the breath to prevent nervous overstimulation, maintain a sense of calm and keep your blood oxygen levels elevated.
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