Bungee Jumping Safety and First-Timer Tips: What Actually Happens

Almost everyone who books a bungee jump spends the week before it quietly wondering whether they will actually go through with it. Understanding what happens — and what keeps you safe — makes the platform far easier.

How the safety system works

• You are weighed at registration, and your weight determines the cord used.
• You wear a full body harness in addition to the ankle attachment, so there is more than one point holding you.
• Gear is inspected before every single jump, not once a day.
• Trained jump masters run the platform and make the final call on every jump.
• Operations pause in unsafe weather rather than pushing through it.

Who should not jump

• Anyone with a heart condition, high blood pressure or recent surgery
• Spinal, neck or serious joint injuries
• Pregnancy
• Epilepsy or fainting conditions
• Anyone who has been drinking

If you are unsure, call us in advance rather than finding out at weigh-in.

What to wear

Comfortable clothes you can move in, closed shoes, and nothing loose. Leave jewellery, watches, phones and loose glasses with your group. If you wear contact lenses, keep them in — you will want to see this.

Surviving the walk to the edge

• Do not look down for long — look out at the gorge instead.
• Keep breathing slowly; holding your breath makes the fear worse.
• Go on the count. Hesitating past three makes the next attempt harder, not easier.
• Do not overthink form. The crew will tell you exactly how to launch.

The fall is about four seconds. The fear is entirely in the ten minutes before it.

Afterwards

Expect shaky legs, an enormous adrenaline high and a strong urge to book a second jump. Sit down, drink water, and let the crew unclip you properly before you start celebrating.