Is Skydiving with High Blood Pressure Safe?

Skydiving is a high-speed, thrilling activity that puts jumpers in an unconventional setting. While our instructors have the gear and training to bring jumpers back to Earth safely, we can only account for the actual conditions of the jump. There’s no denying that skydiving is an extreme sport, and just like with any serious activity, it’s important to determine whether or not your health status will limit your abilities. 

If you have high blood pressure, skydiving may not be safe for you. The same is true if you have a heart condition that has prevented you from taking part in other high-adrenaline activities. Talking with your doctor is the clearest way to understand what makes sense for your condition.

Are There Other Medical Conditions That Prevent Skydiving?

Despite being an extreme sport, skydiving is actually quite welcoming to many who have perceived limitations. Especially when tandem skydiving, jumpers with disabilities are often given a greater source of freedom in the sky, as free falling opens up mobility and sensory experiences that cannot be achieved on the ground. 

At DZONE®, we’ve helped many jumpers with special needs achieve their dreams of flight, including those who are:

  • Deaf or hearing impared
  • Blind or visibly impared
  • Paralyzed or parapalegic
  • Amputees

Although there are fewer medical conditions that prevent skydiving than one might expect, there are some limitations that need to be kept in mind:

  • Skydiving with asthma can be unsafe if your peak flow score is currently outside of your normal range, or if your asthma can be triggered by cold or exercise.
  • Back and neck issues can limit a person’s ability to assume the proper position during freefall. Talk to your doctor to learn more about how your pain may limit your ability to skydive.
  • Only highly trained, licensed skydivers should even consider skydiving while pregnant. Increased levels of progesterone and relaxin, which accompany pregnancy, can increase one’s risk of injury.
  • The level of physical exertion that skydiving requires can cause blood sugar levels to drop rapidly. If you have diabetes, talk with your doctor before you book a skydiving adventure—and talk with other diabetic skydivers about the techniques that work for them!
  • Would-be skydivers with epilepsy (or other neurological conditions) should also speak with a doctor before they sign up for a jump. Although tandem skydiving is generally safe for those with epilepsy, there are exceptions.
  • A higher-than-average body weight or body composition may limit a person’s ability to skydive. We’ll have more to say on this below!

Although a person must be at least 18 years old in order to skydive, there is no age maximum. As long as you’re in good health, you don’t have to let a number slow you down. Glasses and contacts are also fine, since protective goggles are provided to all skydivers.

For more information, check out our guide on what you need to know before your first jump!

How Does Body Composition Affect Skydiving?

Our parachutes can only accommodate a total of 500 pounds between instructor, student, and the equipment itself, meaning that those outside our recommended weight limits may be unable to jump. However, a more common requirement that can prohibit skydiving is body composition. We consider h​​eight, body mass index (BMI), body shape, and other factors, so please review our weight limit guide and contact our team before scheduling. 

Consult Your Doctor to Skydive with DZONE®!

Once you’ve determined whether you can skydive with high blood pressure or heart problems, find your nearest location and get ready for an exhilarating experience! Find out more about what to expect from your first jump and explore other helpful tips curated by our experts. We look forward to jumping with you and giving you a thrill your heart can handle.