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WHAT IS PARAGLIDING?
Paragliding is a form of flying that can be achieved by almost anyone and gives them the ability to fly like a bird. The pilot sits in a comfortable harness suspended by Kevlar lines under a paraglider that is primarily made of nylon. Paragliders are easy to transport, set-up, and fly. Pilots foot launch off of a hill, mountain, or cliff and then use the wind or thermals to stay in the air for hours at a time or longer. Paragliding can be as peaceful or exciting as the pilot chooses to make their experience.
IS PARAGLIDING THE SAME AS PARASAILING? ​​​
No, parasailing is being pulled by a boat while suspended under a parachute and typically the passenger has very little or no control. Parasailing is generally a one-time activity done at a resort location.
ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS FOR WHO CAN BECOME A PARAGLIDING PILOT?
A potential paragliding pilot must have sound judgement and be in reasonable health. There are no age restrictions but pilots under the age of 18 will need parental consent. Some athletic ability is required to launch and land a paraglider but in general anyone can learn to paraglide. Solo paragliding equipment does have a weight limitation of approximately 290 pounds. ​
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE ME TO LEARN TO FLY ON MY OWN?
A student pilot could take short flights on their first day of training if conditions allow for it. An average student at Penguin Paragliding takes approximately 2 months to become a self-sufficient pilot. A motivated student could become competent to fly unsupervised after 6 to 8 training sessions. Basically, how long it takes to learn depends on the student’s availability and commitment to learning. Penguin Paragliding will work around your schedule and availability. Training is one set price no matter how long it takes. We want you to learn at your own rate. ​
WHAT KIND OF GEAR WILL I NEED?
As a student you will be using the gear provided by Penguin Paragliding. At some point you will want to buy your own gear which consists of a harness, paragliding wing, and a reserve parachute. There are other small ticket items to purchase as well such as a helmet, radio, and hook knife to list a few. When you are ready to purchase your own gear, your instructor will be there to guide you in buying what is best for you. There are a lot of options when buying gear and you will want the advice of someone who has been in the sport for many years. One of the best features of paragliding gear is its portability. A well packed paragliding kit can fit in the overhead compartment of an airliner. Many people get into paragliding so that they may fly in locations all over the world. ​​
DO I NEED SOME TYPE OF CERTIFICATION? ​
As a student you will be using the gear provided by Penguin Paragliding. At some point you will want to buy your own gear which consists of a harness, paragliding wing, and a reserve parachute. There are other small ticket items to purchase as well such as a helmet, radio, and hook knife to list a few. When you are ready to purchase your own gear, your instructor will be there to guide you in buying what is best for you. There are a lot of options when buying gear and you will want the advice of someone who has been in the sport for many years. One of the best features of paragliding gear is its portability. A well packed paragliding kit can fit in the overhead compartment of an airliner. Many people get into paragliding so that they may fly in locations all over the world. ​​
IS PARAGLIDING DANGEROUS?
Like any adventure sport, paragliding has its hazards. Proper training, sound judgement, and modern gear all help to mitigate the risk of injury. With the right attitude, paragliding can be very safe and become one of the most rewarding aspects of a person’s life. The most important part of safety in paragliding is the pilot’s attitude, judgement, and abilities relative to the desired flight plan. Very similar safety truths exist for rock climbing, scuba diving, skydiving, etc…
HOW DO I GET STARTED? ​
To book your first lesson please call or text Rob at (707)654-6750 or send an email to [email protected] If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area or will be here for a few weeks then we are likely the school for you. Depending on where you live, there are many great schools available. ​
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY FIRST DAY?
Here is how to Prepare for day 1.
Sign the waiver
Things to bring and wear:
Water
Snacks
Sunscreen
Long Pants
Sturdy shoes
A helmet (or you can borrow from school)
Gloves for hand protection

We will train for roughly 3 hours. It can be longer or shorter depending on how you feel as the day goes on. It is a fairly physical day so be ready for that : )

Intro day is $250, that will be applied to the full course tuition if you decide that flying is for you. We accept cash, check, PayPal, or Venmo after the lesson.
WHY CHOOSE PENGUIN PARAGLIDING?
Choosing the right school for you is important.  We want you to make an informed decision.  See why Penguin Paragliding might be the right school for you CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE:  WHY CHOOSE US?