The Day It Clicked
Today, we focus on two key areas that unlock real control and confidence: improving your reverse takeoff technique and a progressive, safe introduction to the big ears descent manoeuvre. For joining our progression paragliding course best in Europe, all year round visit.
What you’ll learn today in this Paragliding course day 7
- Ground handling that keeps your wing inflated, stable, and predictable.
- A clean reverse launch: face the wing, control the rise, then turn to face the wind.
- A step-by-step Big Ears intro to manage altitude safely and stay within your comfort zone.
⚠️ Safety first: Practise under certified instruction and in suitable conditions. Progress gradually and never rush a new manoeuvre.
Part 1 — Reverse Takeoff: confidence from the ground up
Goal: Raise and stabilise the wing while facing it, then transition smoothly to launch.
Key drills (progressive):
- Inflate while facing the wing
Keep a soft, even pull on the A-risers. Move your feet, not your brakes, to stay centred under the canopy.
Saved line from the video script: “First, we’ll work on inflating the wing while facing it.” - Hold it overhead with full control
Keep the wing above you. Small inputs, constant scanning, and develop the feel for pressure changes.
Saved line: “Then, we’ll simply keep the wing above us, maintaining full control at all times and gradually learning to feel it.” - Turn to face the wind
Once stable, turn the correct way to avoid line twists and align to wind. Commit to a tidy posture.
Saved line: “And once it’s under control, we’ll turn around to face the wind.”
Pro tips
- Let your feet do the corrections.
- Keep brake inputs light and symmetric—avoid yanking.
- If the wing surges or drops a tip, step under it first; only then add a brief input.
Part 2 — Big Ears: a controlled way to lose height
Why Big Ears? A simple, stable rapid descent method that reduces wing area so you can come down efficiently while maintaining forward speed and control (under supervision).
How we introduce it (progressively):
- Practise clean, symmetrical ear entry and release.
- Add gentle, coordinated turns once stable—only as comfort grows.
Saved line: “When we begin practicing the big ears manoeuvre, we’ll progress step by step, gradually introducing gentle turns… until you feel comfortable.”
Common mistakes & fixes
- Uneven ears → Reset, re-enter symmetrically.
- Over-braking while ears are in → Keep brakes light; manage course with weight-shift and subtle inputs.
- Rushing the release → Release smoothly; use a couple of gentle pumps only if necessary and approved for your glider model.
Conditions & kit (quick notes)
- Choose a forgiving site and wind that suits your skill and wing category.
- Helmet, certified harness, reserve checked and pinned; pre-flight every time.
- Know your glider’s manufacturer guidance for ears and recovery. https://www.gleitschirm-direkt.de/
Keep learning
Day 7 is where control starts to feel natural—the day it clicked. Up next, we build duration and refine manoeuvres as your decision-making sharpens.
Subscribe, share the video, and join us for the next lesson.
“We hope you enjoy watching, and we look forward to seeing you soon.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a reverse takeoff in paragliding?
A reverse takeoff is when the pilot launches while facing the wing, pulling it up into position before turning to face forward into the wind.
2. Why is reverse launch important for beginners?
It gives better control in stronger winds, allows you to see the wing as it inflates, and reduces the risk of being pulled off balance.
3. What are “big ears” in paragliding?
Big ears is a descent manoeuvre where the pilot folds in the outer sections of the wing tips, reducing lift and allowing a faster, controlled descent.
4. Is the big ears manoeuvre safe for beginners?
Yes, when taught progressively under instructor supervision. It is one of the simplest rapid descent techniques, but should always be practised step by step.
5. How do you control direction with big ears applied?
Brakes are less effective, so pilots mainly use weight-shift and small inputs to guide the wing. Smooth, gentle turns are introduced gradually.
6. What conditions are best to practise these skills?
Calm to moderate wind, open terrain, and with proper instruction. Safety gear and a clear landing area are essential.