2-Way Entrances
Overview
The 2 way entrances serve a purpose, to allow skydivers to imitate the exit portion of a real skydive and also for tunnel competitions to begin timing. They are fun yet challenging exercies which will encompass many facets of what you have already learned.
Pre-requisites
Many flyers will want to learn entering the tunnel in a 2-way formation mainly for the enjoyment and added challenge that it presents but also for skydivers wishing to imitate the exit portion of a skydive. Before you will be able to learn entering the wind tunnel while holding or being held by another in a 2-way formation, you will need to demonstrate that you are able to enter the airflow solo, fly a neutral body position, along with the eight points of motion, without any considerable issues.
If you plan to be the flyer who enters other than forwards during the 2-way entrance, you will need to practice that move solo prior to adding the second flyer.
Objectives
The primary objective is to be able to safely and successfully begin in the staging area of the tunnel, build the anticipated 2-way formation while standing at the entrance doorway, enter the wind tunnel keeping the formation intact, and finish in the center of the wind tunnel with both flyers stable, on the same level and without any movement.
Preparation
You and your flying partner will discuss with your instructor which entrances are the safest and most successful to try. Build the formation while standing in the tunnel staging area. The first flyer to enter the airflow should be as close to the edge of the door as possible, using the doorframe for added support and stability. At the same time, the second flyer should be positioned as close to the first flyer as possible to allow the pair to enter as a “chunk” with little space in between them. Both flyers will want to squat slightly to allow themselves to enter low. Both flyers should use the bend in their legs to help provide the power to move away from the door toward the center of the tunnel.
Post-flight questions / suggestions
- How did your performance match the initial objectives?
- Were you able to enter the tunnel and maintain stability throughout?
- Was the entrance timing correct and did the entrances feel smooth?
- What techniques did you feel comfortable with and what can you improve on during the next session?
While continuing to build on your 2 way flying abilities, ever advancing sequences from the 2 way dive pool, learning superpositioning moves will benefit these more difficult draws and then later your sights will be set on flying with more than one partner.