Congratulations on earning your skydiving qualification! As you continue to explore the thrilling world of skydiving, you may find yourself eager to delve into specific disciplines that cater to different interests and skill sets. From the synchronised formations of formation skydiving to the dynamic freedom of free flying, the possibilities are vast. This guide is designed to help you navigate the various disciplines available to new qualified skydivers, including formation skydiving, free flying, tracking, and wingsuiting.

• Formation Skydiving:

Formation skydiving, also known as "belly" or "RW" (Relative Work), involves a group of skydivers forming predetermined shapes while in freefall. This discipline emphasizes teamwork, communication, and precision. If you enjoy working closely with others and crave the exhilaration of synchronised maneuvers, formation skydiving might be the perfect fit for you.

Tips for Choosing Formation Skydiving:

a. Start with smaller groups: Begin with 4-way or 8-way formations before progressing to larger groups. This allows you to build a strong foundation in communication and coordination.

b. Develop strong tracking skills: Efficient tracking is crucial for forming and maintaining precise shapes. Practice your tracking skills during solo jumps to enhance your overall performance in formation skydiving.

• Free Flying:

Free flying is all about unrestricted movement and creativity in the sky. Skydivers in free flying positions typically fly head down, head up, or in a seated position, allowing for dynamic and acrobatic maneuvers. If you enjoy pushing the boundaries of gravity and experimenting with body flight, free flying might be your calling.

Tips for Choosing Free Flying:

a. Master stable body positions: Before diving into advanced free flying maneuvers, ensure you have a stable neutral body position. This foundation will enhance your control and safety during more complex moves.

b. Practice in the tunnel and in the sky to learn techniques, safety protocols, and improve your skills under the guidance of experienced free fly coaches.

• Tracking:

Tracking involves horizontal movement across the sky, and it's an exhilarating discipline that allows you to cover large distances during freefall. Tracking is ideal for those who enjoy the sensation of speed and the thrill of exploring the sky in a more dynamic way.

Tips for Choosing Tracking:

a. Perfect your body position: Achieving an efficient tracking position is crucial for minimising drag and maximising forward movement. Practice your tracking skills during solo jumps, focusing on body position and stability.

b. Gradual progression: Start with basic tracking techniques and gradually advance to more challenging maneuvers as you become comfortable with the increased speed and complexity.

• Wingsuiting:

Wingsuiting is the closest experience to human flight, as skydivers wear specialised wingsuits that allow them to glide through the air. This discipline offers a unique perspective and a sense of freedom like no other. If you dream of soaring through the sky like a bird, wingsuiting may be the discipline for you.

Tips for Choosing Wingsuiting:

a. Obtain proper training: Like many other disciplines in skydiving, wingsuiting requires specialised training due to the added complexity and potential risks. Train with a certified instructor to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

b. Build experience: Start with smaller wingsuits and gradually progress to larger designs as you gain experience and confidence. Focus on developing precise control and awareness of your surroundings.

As a newly qualified skydiver, the diverse world of disciplines awaits you. Whether you're drawn to the precision of formation skydiving, the freedom of free flying, the speed of tracking, or the exhilaration of wingsuiting, each discipline offers a unique and rewarding experience. Take the time to explore different disciplines, train with specialised coaches, and most importantly, have fun while discovering the exhilarating world of advanced skydiving. Blue skies and safe jumps!

P.S. To practice each one of the above mentioned disciplines, you need to go through briefings and be cleared and approved by the Chief Instructor at your drop zone. Stay safe!