For as long as we have had deep water next to cliffs humans have found an urge to jump from and to enjoy what nature had provided. But just like the Peregrine Falcon we have learnt to use man made structures in ways that the builders could never imagine. And this isn’t a modern craze. Ask and local at any of the UKs jumping spots and they will recall stories of childhood summers spent jumping and having fun at the same spots as we use today. The only thing that has changed is the level of personal protection. In the past all that was needed were Trunks and a fish like quality in water.

As we all know. Water temperatures in the UK are not the warmest. And in some locations will not get above 10c even in the summer. And this was always the limiting factor on how long you could do this activity. But with modern clothing in the form of wetsuits we can stay in the water for hours instead of minutes.

So what do I need? A full length wetsuit. This will keep you warmer in the water as well as giving you more buoyancy and gives protection from minor bumps and scrapes. A buoyancy aid, this will help you float and will half the distance you go under the water. Footwear, not only does footwear stop your feet from being slapped by the water it also makes walking out of the water easier and safer.

How do I do it? Never alone. Or who will believe you did that 45ft jump and its common sense. If you’re new to...more