Top Tips On How To Jump Off Cliffs And Bridges Safely

I have a bit of an unusual hobby while traveling.  I like to find bridges and high places to go cliff jumping into the water below.  

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of leaping off a cliff, free falling through the air, the shock of hitting the cold water and plunging deep down into it, and finally coming up for air realizing you’re still in one piece.  Sounds a little crazy and intense?

Well, you’ve probably seen it done in movies and wondered what it felt like.  If you’ve got some daredevil inside you and are itching to try it out but weren’t sure how to go about doing it safely, here are 8 tips to keep you out of harm’s way when seeking the thrill of jumping off cliffs.
​

8.  ​Practice first at your local swimming pool

If there is a high dive at your local pool, I recommend climbing up that ladder, walking out to the edge of the diving board, peering over the edge and jumping feet first into the pool.  Make sure you are able to jump in a controlled environment before attempting cliff jumping or anywhere outdoors where many other factors come into play that make it a lot more daunting.
​

7.  ​Make sure the water is deep enough

This may sound obvious but there have been many accidents as a result of cliff jumping and landing in water that was too shallow.

The safest way is to pick a well known jumping location where other people have already jumped successfully in the past.  Talk to the locals, tourist staff, and experts who have jumped there before to find out anything special you need to know about the water depth in that spot.  It also wouldn’t hurt to swim under the area with some goggles to take a look yourself.
​​
Also remember that many factors may affect the depth of the water.  For example, at La Quebrada, one of the most famous cliff jumps in Mexico where only professionals are allowed to jump, the dives can only be done at high tide and the diver must hit the water when the incoming wave is at its highest point.  This is obviously an extreme instance but is an example nevertheless of factors that may affect your jump.
​

6.  ​Make sure the landing zone is safe

Have some friends with goggles swim around the area where you will be cliff jumping to look for hidden rocks, branches and any other debris that could hurt you when you land.
​

5.  Check the cliff or bridge for obstructions

Make sure there are no tree limbs hanging out, wires or loose boards protruding or other hindrances that could snag you on the way down.

Ideally you will have a clear path to gain momentum to jump outward from the cliff, clearing yourself of the cliff face and any other obstacles before landing in the water.
​

4.  Have a clear exit

Make sure there is a safe way to exit the water.  When jumping into the ocean, be aware of riptides.  Also be mindful of the waves crashing onto the cliff face which will make it extremely difficult and dangerous to exit the water.
​
If cliff jumping into a river, be aware of the current.  For example, at this particular jump (photo below) off of an abandoned railroad bridge located in Semuc Champey, Guatemala, the river underneath had a strong current.  Once you landed, you had to start swimming immediately to shore.  Even as a decent swimmer, I drifted downriver quite a ways before reaching the side.  If you were already fatigued before jumping and then have a rough landing which disorients you, problems could occur trying to exit the river.
​

3.  Concentrate on technique – Jump feet first and maintain good body position

Unless you’re a professional, don’t attempt to dive head first from a great height since there are too many things that can go wrong.  If you over-rotate, you’ll end up landing on your back; under-rotate and you’ll belly flop.  Both situations could be disastrous.  When landing incorrectly you have a great chance of compressing your spine, breaking various bones, getting a concussion, or even getting paralyzed.

The best method is to jump feet first, using the ‘pencil dive’ technique.  Keep your feet pointing downward and your body as tight, compact and vertical as possible.  This limits the point of contact when impacting with the water.  Breathe out before impact to prevent water going up your nose.

Contrary to popular belief, you are not cushioned by the water below.  In fact, if you land wrong, it will feel like hitting a brick wall.  Anyone who has landed roughly in water will tell you the same.

Depending on the height from which you’re cliff jumping, you will reach speeds from 25 mph up to 45 mph when hitting the water.  That’s why your technique is so important.
​

2.  Be physically and mentally prepared

Cliff jumping tests both your physical and mental limits so be sure that you are properly prepared.  Never jump on a whim or because of a dare.  Never pressure someone else into jumping who is not completely willing.  Make sure your mind is clear and that you are in good physical condition.  Do not drink alcohol before jumping because it will impair your abilities and your judgment.

Visualize the jump and be confident in your abilities.  If you are not, then don’t attempt the jump.  The worst thing you can do is be less than enthusiastic about the jump and not execute properly because you are not focused.
​

​1.   Enjoy your jump!

All the safety checks have been done and you’re ready to go.  Have a friend standing by with a camera set to quick shutter or continuous shooting mode to capture the moment.  Now jump and enjoy your free fall!

Photo Credit: Meghan Ross

Legal disclaimer:  Please be careful and do not get yourself hurt.  Do not attempt cliff jumping if you are out of shape, have heart problems, have a fear of heights or have any other medical conditions that might jeopardize your health by doing this.  Neither FearlessMen.com or JosephLe.com assume liability for injuries resulting from your attempt at jumping off a cliff or bridge.

This article was originally published on Fearless Men.