After having tasted the exceptional sensations of paragliding during a baptism, you only dream of one thing: learning to fly ! However, if this may seem very simple after seeing your instructor at the controls, this is not quite the case. In this article, we'll give you a few tips before you take to the skies solo.
Learning to fly solo: the false good idea
First of all, it is important to remember that although flying a paraglider seems easy (after all, you only need to pull one handle to turn and both controls at the same time to slow down), it is not as simple as it sounds.
The world in which you fly with such passion is a complex one, subject to sudden changes. And for good reason, air, like water, can become dangerous if you have not been trained by qualified instructors and professionals.
This is why it is essential to learn the essential techniques and knowledge through courses supervised by experienced paragliding instructors.
Start with a paragliding initiation course at school
There is nothing better than an initiation course to learn how to fly a paraglider by yourself.
During these few days, you will follow a theoretical instruction. Regulations, weather... You will know everything you need to practice your favourite sport in complete safety.
But of course, the practice will not be forgotten. On a school slope, you will prepare your kite and practice inflation. You will discover the sensations of lift and even some flea jumps. Then will come the take-offs, landings and turns.
Then it will be the big day: your first solo flight! A moment you won't soon forget.
Flying in complete safety with a refresher course
At the risk of sounding like a party-killer, an initiation course does not allow you to learn how to fly a paraglider in all circumstances and in complete safety.
Therefore, we strongly recommend an advanced course during which you acquire theoretical knowledge (aerology, aerodynamic forces, energy management, etc.) and practical experience on known spots and in calm conditions. Autonomy is near!
At the end of this course, you will be given a certificate validated to fly alone and you will be able to launch with confidence.
To conclude, paragliding is a learning experience and it is essential to be accompanied by professionals in order to practice safely and have fun. So, are you ready to sign up for an initiation or improvement course ?