Cliff Jumping
Created | Updated Jan 28, 2002
People have been jumping off cliffs into the sea for years and it can be quite a serious business, people also jump off cliffs onto other surfaces but that isn`t done for entertainment¹.
To cliff jump safely there are a few basic rules to follow.
1: Find a good launch site. You want a platform that you can get too easliy and preferably has an overhang. It may look like you can clear those rocks below but believe me you cant.
2: Look before you leap. Check the depth of the water, look for submerged rocks and ensure that the tide isnt going out!
3: Work up to it. Dont pick a 70ft jump for your first one. Choose something less ambitious and get the hang of it first. Dont dive unless you are very good!
4: Make sure you have a place to get out of the water. Most good cliff jumps require cliffs. By their very nature these are generally rocky. You need a nice easy climb out of the water. Not a 500 yard swim and a 20ft climb over razor sharp rocks!
5: Never go alone - if you get hurt you will want back up.
6: Make sure there is no surf (waves) it may be easy to jump into choppy water but it certainly isnt easy climbing back out. You end up being dragged across rocks and trust me on this one... it isnt fun.
Ok youve got yourself a good spot. Nice clear water, a decent jump - say 30ft. DONT hurl yourself off in a frenzy and belly flop into the water waving your arms around - it WILL hurt. Technique is an important part of a succcesful cliff jump. Dont take a run up - one slip could prove disasterous. Stand on the edge feet together and off you go feet first. Legs together, toes up - balance with your arms but make sure they are by your side when you hit the water. Try to go in strait as an arrow - any angle will translate quickly into motion in that direction. Blow out through you nose as you hit to prevent water rushing up through your nose.
The final rule is.... If you have any doubts DONT go!
People do some strange things dont they?
¹. see: Suicide or
Suicide
