Ever wonder what the experience of paragliding feels like when you’re in the air? Find out as we teach you what it is like to paraglide.
Are you looking for a new exhilarating activity to take part in? Are you a thrill-seeker? Do heights excite you? How does flying 2000 feet above the ground sound?
Paragliding is by far one of the most adventurous things to do on the planet. The thrill that comes with being in a paraglide, and the joy of getting to fly is incomparable to anything. It is an activity for all, young and old. The oldest paraglider took to the skies at the age of 104. Exciting, isn’t it?
If you still do not think that this is an activity worth trying out, then this article is for you.
What Is to Paraglide?
It is taking part in an extreme sport where a broad canopy is attached to a person by a harness, making it possible to glide through the air. The wind is the primary force used to maintain flight during paragliding and in some instances, even gaining altitude. The materials used to make the canopy, as well as the shape and design all, contribute to the performance.
Equipment Used
- Paraglide
- Harnesses
- Helmets
- Reverse parachutes
How Does Paragliding Work?
It is essential to understand how the process works even to be able to appreciate the outcome. Two layers of the wing are sewn together and a gap left between them. Vertical ribs support the gap and between each rib are cells, which trap air and inflate the canopy.
Attached to the wings is a row of lines, which act as brakes. The lines can be used to control the glider. The pilot alters the direction and speed of flying by manipulating the strings. Changing the angle of the wing also increases the speed.
The pilot is kept safe by straps, which in turn lock into the pilot’s harness. View here for all your paragliding needs.
Learning How to Paraglide
Exciting is not a word that best describes the experience which is by far the closest you can get to flying. Many have dreamt of the opportunity to ride with the sky which paragliding fulfills. You will not be able to describe this experience to others using words.
You can only fly when the winds are kind enough to support flying; otherwise, you will have to go back when things are better. Before takeoff, the crew will brief you then help you strap up.
This is perhaps the scariest moment for most people. Your heart beats a hundred times faster. Good instructors realize it, and they try to calm you down. A few deep breaths normally help. It is best not to overthink what is coming.
When everything is done, the jump will follow. The feeling of excitement begins.
Different people react differently to this experience, so do not approach it with preconceived expectations. Allow your body to shock you.
A Great Pilot Helps
The pilot will make things much more comfortable. They control everything, while you enjoy the view of the beautiful scenery as well as the sound of the wind. It truly lives up to its name because you feel like you are gliding through the air.
Your pilot will ensure you get the most out of the flying by making a few turns around. It becomes even better when your pilot flies higher and takes you closer to the clouds. Nothing beats paragliding in terms of the experience it offers.
Valuable Lessons Learned From the Experience
Here are a few things paragliding teaches you.
- The Line Between Living and Existing Is Thin
While you are up on the sky filled with ecstasy and joy, people below you continue with their activities. The world will seem to be so small yet so complicated. Up there, nothing will matter except for the moment.
You get to choose the quality of life you desire to live.
- Take Time to Appreciate the Little Things in Life
The wind plays a massive role in ensuring you remain suspended in the air. Well, who knew you could enjoy what birds do with the help of “simple”well-designed equipment and just the wind. What more are you taking for granted?
Take time to appreciate man’s work, no matter how simple because they make a difference at the end of the day. Nature is simply amazing.
- Everything Begins in the Mind
It is so easy for people to turn down the idea of going to paraglide because they are afraid. It can not get done as long as that kind of thinking is maintained. The moment you consciously chose to go against your fears, everything will change.
Be more positive.
Is It Safe to Paraglide?
Paragliding is as risky as any other aviation activity. The difference, however, is in the preparation. With proper education and with the right attitude, flying can then be very safe.
The right wind conditions also contribute to the safety of the flight. Good winds are crucial before the activity commences. The winds need to be strong enough to support the flying but not too strong to disrupt the process.
The pilot is the most critical variable. Ensure that you get a licensed pilot before flying. Participants are, however, trained to assess their attitude and aptitude beforehand, which improve the whole process.
Plus, you always have a reverse parachute which opens immediately and attaches to the harness in an unlikely event that the wing deflates.
Make Plans to Paraglide
Everyone should consider taking on a challenge, such as learning how to paraglide at least once in their lifetime. It will change how you view the world. No one knows their limits until they push them. The confidence to conquer life’s hurdles is also built such experiences.
For those willing to pursue paragliding seriously, you would be interested to know that it is a competitive sport too. The sport has been around for decades but is yet to be included in the Olympics. The World Sports Federation says the sport is a potential addition to the 2020 games in Tokyo.
Check out our lifestyle section for more ideas on hobbies and activities to try.
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