Spreading the Parachute

• Before you begin your flight, you have to make sure the chute is straight and there are no knots or flaws in the line. Don't take anyone's word for it. See for yourself to be sure there is nothing to stop the parachute from unfurling. You will want to have a protective helmet and possibly a sun visor. The paragliding helmet is light and strong and will protect you if you stumble as you get started or later when you land. The sun visor is a good idea for days with bright sunshine and little or no cloud cover.
  Your ride starts as you run along with the vehicle as the parachute fills with air. Once it has enough air, the chute goes up, pulling you with it. Once you reach a height of about 60 to 80 feet, you are untethered from the vehicle.
  
  

Controlling Your Flight

• Unlike para-sailing, in which you are taken for a leisurely ride around a body of water, paragliding gives you the opportunity to control your own flight. There are toggles you use that will let you dip, soar and turn in any direction. Once you're untethered, you control where you go.
  
  

Ending Your Flight

• By maneuvering the toggles you will be able to control every aspect of your flight, including the way you end it. While you will be able to soar with the wind for an hour or more, you eventually have to come down. You will be trained to come down in an open area by maneuvering the toggles. You are instructed to hit the ground with a running motion that allows you to land without absorbing much physical punishment.