7 Indoor Skydiving Tips From A Pro: Anthony Armendariz

Indoor skydiving is a highly accessible sport for all ages. And no matter how old we are, our apprehensions, struggles, and progress tend to follow a similar path. So, what are some tunnel tips from a pro? Let’s dig in.

Tunnel Tips from an Indoor Skydiving Pro: Anthony Armendariz

Anthony Armendariz is an experienced skydiver in both outdoor and indoor environments. With over 2,100 skydives and more than 300 hours of tunnel time, he’s acquired serious skills. We interviewed him to learn the best advice he has for anyone starting their tunnel progression journey. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned flyer, these indoor skydiving tips apply to everyone.

1. What’s one technique or skill you wish you’d focused on earlier in your tunnel flying journey, and how has mastering it changed your experience in the tunnel?

“Patience. Learning anything in the tunnel definitely takes commitment and time, and some days are harder than others to really nail that one move. Having a bit of patience and not being too hard on yourself has really helped me through some of those difficult spots. It definitely helps with your overall progression, in my opinion.”

2. How do you mentally prepare before a session to get the most out of your time in the tunnel? What do you do if you feel off your game during a flight? And what’s a clear sign that it’s time to take a break?

“Before I go into the tunnel, I always have at least one skill or sequence I’d like to work on in my mind — whether it’s a specific move or just cleaning up my flying. Again, keeping in mind that you shouldn’t be too hard on yourself. You should always have fun, even while working on something that’s pushing your comfort zone.

 “If I’m ever feeling off my game and something’s just not clicking, I’ll usually take a break from that one thing and just flow. Whatever I do know how to do in the tunnel, I just let it ride — sort of without thinking. It’s like a mental reset. When I feel ready to reintroduce that move again, I go back to it with a fresh mindset.

“If you find yourself mentally or physically fatigued — flipping around, hitting the walls, or not having fun — that’s an obvious sign you need a break.”

3. What’s the most valuable piece of feedback or advice you’ve been given about tunnel flying?

“Always go in working toward some sort of goal. This will make sure that progression is always happening, even when it doesn’t feel like it.

“Also, record your sessions if you can. Watching and analyzing your flying, especially when you’re getting coaching, can help with your progression almost as much as time in the tunnel.”

4. What’s a common mistake you see newer flyers making?

“Trying to be too good, too fast. Of course, we all want to be a ripper in the tunnel. But understanding and trusting the process will help get you there quicker. If you try to be better than your current ability allows — without putting the time and work in — it can work against you.” 

Pro tunnel tip: Flyers with a couple of hours in the tunnel may start pushing themselves too fast, while first-timers may be stiff or overly tense trying to control things too much. Trust the wind and your instructor!

5. What’s the one piece of advice you’d give a first timer to help them feel confident and relaxed before stepping into the tunnel?

“Relax and trust the wind. Keep your body loose but stable. Tension makes it harder to control your movements, so take a deep breath, smile, and let the wind do the work. Your instructor will guide you, so focus on small, steady adjustments rather than overcorrecting.”

6. What’s the most surprising thing you felt or noticed during your own first tunnel flight, and how can a beginner prepare for that sensation?

“How out of control AND in control I was. The first time you fly in a wind tunnel is wild, it’s nothing like anything you’ve felt before. Outside the tunnel, you push off the ground to move. In the tunnel, you just relax, and the wind lifts you. If you try to fight it for stability, the wind will win every time. Learning to relax and move with the wind instead of against it will set anyone up for success.”

7. What’s a simple goal a first timer should aim for in their first session, and how can they build on that in their second visit?

“A great first goal is to maintain a stable body position. Every advanced technique stems from that. Try to stay in the moment and be aware of your whole body, from your head down to your feet. And have fun with it! That mindset will set you up to tackle more in your next session.” 

First Flight: How to Prepare for Indoor Skydiving

Getting ready for your very first indoor skydiving session? Here are a few quick indoor skydiving tips to help you show up confident and comfortable:

• Dress comfortably: Wear close-fitting, athletic clothing that allows for a full range of motion. You’ll be provided with a flight suit, but what you wear underneath matters! Also, make sure to wear lace-up, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Eat, hydrate, sleep: Get a good night’s rest, stay hydrated, and eat as you normally would. Avoid alcohol before your session — you want to feel alert and ready to fly.
• Remove accessories: Take off any jewelry, watches, or large hair clips. If you have long hair, tie it back securely to keep it from whipping around in the wind.
• Listen to your instructor: Your coach will walk you through the basics and guide you every step of the way. Pay close attention to hand signals and body position tips, it’ll make your flight smoother and more fun.
• Relax and breathe: Most first-time nerves disappear once you’re in the tunnel. Take a deep breath, trust the wind, and enjoy the ride!

Pro tunnel tip: Yes, you can breathe normally in the tunnel. Even though it might feel like you can’t at first. That sensation usually comes from adrenaline, not the wind. 

Let’s Fly

Anthony gave us some awesome tips for indoor skydiving that we hope will resonate with you. His final words of advice?

“Ask questions, be willing to work hard and learn, always go in with some sort of personal goal, don’t be too hard on yourself, and remember — we’re only doing this because it’s fun.”

We couldn’t agree more. We can’t wait to fly with you and help you discover all the benefits that indoor skydiving has to offer! Book today!