Hang gliding is an incredible experience that provides you with the feeling of flying free. Having your body exposed to the elements as you glide across the landscape is a completely different experience than being in an aircraft – there’s a sense of exhilaration that you can’t get anywhere else. Whilst you’re looking down onto the earth, completely enveloped in the moment, you are truly free. If you want to find out more, here are our top 5 reasons why you should go hang gliding in the UK.
1. Spectacular views
When you go hang gliding, you rely only on the wind and thermal air currents to stay aloft – there’s no engine, and no mechanical help to get into the air. It truly is the closest man has gotten to flying like a bird. And with this, comes the views. You’ll be able to experience life like never before; looking out onto the horizon as you soar through the sky, watching nature from a bird’s eye point of view. If you’re looking for a new perspective – physically and mentally – then hang gliding is definitely for you!
2. Strengthen your arm muscles
Whilst you will be suspended from a harness beneath a 9m sail, the way you control the glider is by manoeuvring your body like a pendulum underneath the wing using your arms. At first this can put a lot of stress on the arms, but the more you glide the stronger you get, and over time will build a noticeable amount of strength. So not only are you having the time of your life, gliding above the land, but you’ll also be building up your muscles without even realising it!
3. Improve your concentration
Although you can lose yourself in the vast beauty of your surroundings whilst you’re gliding, you always have to keep a part of your mind sharp and ready to react to keep you safe in the sky. This require immense concentration that will be built up over time as you learn and will greatly help to increase your focus in all aspects of your life. So if you’re looking for an activity that will boost your mental capacity whilst having an amazing time, this may very well be the sport for you.
4. Reduce stress
As you take off from height and start to feel the wind over your body, experiencing the sense of weightlessness as you leave the ground, you’ll find all the worries of daily life disappearing simultaneously. The blasts of fresh air against your skin will blow away your stresses, with the incredible scenic views helping along the way. Furthermore, whilst you’re up there in immense concentration you’ll feel complete and utter escape – focusing solely on one thing will distract your mind from everything else.
5. Learn quickly
Although hang gliding is viewed by most as a rather complex hobby to get into, it really only requires arounds 10 lessons with a certified instructor before you’ll be able to experience the thrill solo. As technology advances so do the rigs – they’re lighter, provide more aid and are more versatile – meaning that there’s one to suit everyone and the needs of all. Once you’ve learned the basics and are flying solo, there is a plethora of more things to discover; you can learn how to use thermal updrafts to stay aloft for longer, glide cross-country, and even perform aerial acrobatics! There will always be something new for you to learn, whenever you head out!
When should I go Hang Gliding in the UK?
The best conditions for gliding are when it’s sunny, with a bit of wind (but not too much!), and therefore we would suggest heading out in the months from spring to autumn for the best and longest glides. With hang gliding, however, the time of day also plays a huge part in what kind of trip you’ll have. In the morning or late evening, the weather is usually more stable, so if you’re a first timer and a little bit nervous, this would be the perfect time for you. On the other hand, if you’re more on the confident side, or a little bit heavier, we would suggest going during the middle of the day as there are stronger winds and more thermal activity allowing for a bumpier ride. There’s really a time for everyone to go and enjoy!
© 2024 Scott Iman Jones, Yumping Adventure, SL
