19. Do you need to be fit to skydive?

If you want to make a solo skydive as a first descent you don't need to have any high level of physical strength but you'll need to generally be in good shape and willing to sign a Declaration (this is for solo jumps, the requirements for tandem are less stringent), and if you're over 40 or have certain conditions you'll have to get a doctor to sign it as well. If you are under 18 (but you need to be at least 16) you will need a parent/guardians signature.
Also Peterlee Parachute Centre cannot ordinarily take you if you are over 15 stone although it is your height to weight ratio that is most important (see the Declaration of fitness). Your body mass index needs to be under 27.5. Heavier people may be able to do tandems and if you have previous parachuting experience the chief instructor may make an allowance. If you have concerns about fitness then email us and we'll be able to give you more advice on the specifics.
Bear in mind that while fitness requirements may prevent you from making a solo skydive as a first skydive, it is often possible to make a tandem as a first skydive, with the possibility of taking a solo skydiving course if the instructor thinks you are competent enough to do so. Again, for more information feel free to email us.