Bender Tunnel Training
02.04Static Flying

Back Fly Up & Down

Move up, stop, and move down in the air column without moving forward, backward, or changing heading.

Prerequisite: Back-fly turns plus forward and backward movement.

Desired outcome: Move up, stop, and move down in the air column without moving forward, backward, or changing heading.

Key points:

  • To move up, slightly arch the torso and widen or extend the arms and legs to increase surface area.
  • Return to neutral to stop upward movement.
  • To move down, slightly de-arch the torso and reduce arm and leg extension.
  • Balance all inputs to avoid unwanted drive and use the arms and lower legs to maintain heading.

Coaching and safety: Avoid large changes or curling into a tight ball. Begin with small fall-rate adjustments and keep the student's altitude within their demonstrated ability.