Before you jump alone you normally do tandem jumps with an instructor or an experienced jumper. Through such jumps you get used to free fall, wind directions and how to steer. Skydivers must also learn a lot of theory. Wind speed and other weather elements are important.
Airplanes climb to an altitude of 7,000 to 15,000 feet (2000 to 4,600 meters) before letting out the jumpers. The freefall stage lasts between 45 and 80 seconds. Jumpers reach a speed of up to 130 miles an hour (210 kmh). Skydiving requires excellent weather. Jumping in rainy weather or during strong winds can be very dangerous.