What do I need to do to start BASE jumping?

If you want to start BASE jumping must first get at least 200 skydives. Skydiving will introduce you to body positions, canopy flight, canopy landings, and provide you with a basic understanding of parachuting(more info). During your first 200 skydives, you must learn to consistently land your canopy inside a 30' diameter circle. Keep in mind that most BASE jumps offer some of the worst landing areas often strewn with trees, rocks and other hazards.BASE jumping without learning how to skydive first is not a smart decision and can easily injure or kill you.

 Can I BASE jump without skydiving first?

Would a normal person go for a 4-Way competition without be a skydiver? It's exactly the same with BASE jumping. We highly recommend that you first perform at least 200 skydives (get start) and then think about the additional complexity of making a low-altitude fixed object jump. You will also find some resistance from other BASE jumpers and instructors if you do not possess the needed skills and jump experience to safely deploy and land your parachute. While some BASE jumpers have made thousands of injury-free jumps, if you BASE jump long enough (as in any sport), you will surely spend some time in the back of an ambulance.

Is BASE jumping dangerous?
YES,just like any other extreme sport, BASE jumping can result in injuries or even death. Even if you've had extensive training, the best gear, perfect weather conditions, and you're smarter than the rest of the jumpers in your group, you can be injured or killed. Canopy openings are not always predictable and can open facing a cliff wall or towards an antenna. Some of the smartest BASE jumpers in the world have recently been injured or killed BASE jumping. It's not "if", but "when" you get busted up in this sport(Read this please).

You should practice accuracy with a big 7-cell canopy when skydiving by doing at least 10-20 jumps. There is a huge difference between flying a high performance skydiving canopy and a BASE canopy. We have seen some bad landings because the jumper did not acclimatize themselves to a bigger 7-cell canopy.

When getting into BASE jumping we recommend you to take a first aid course. BASE jumping is dangerous and can result in serious injuries or even death. A first aid course will help you or your friends in a critical situation.

Prepare your family for your BASE jumping career.  Explain to them what you are doing and why, make sure they understand your wishes in case of emergency, such as “do not resuscitate” or “donate organs”, and it is also a good idea to have health and life insurance.  A living will is also a good idea, so in case the worst happens; your wishes will be known and carried out. 

BE PREPARED for the most exhilarating experience of your life!  The freedom of leaping off a cliff cannot be truly described, but is understood and loved by BASE jumpers around the world.  Be prepared to never be the same again.