Leisure activities that promise thrills, adventure and freedom are often difficult to access for many people with physical disabilities. But there are experiences that show: Limits sometimes only exist in the mind. One example of this is indoor skydiving – and Giuliano gave it a try.
Curious despite doubts
Giuliano’s journey to the Windwerk in Winterthur began with a question: “Is that even possible – despite my limitations?”
After a tandem parachute jump, his interest in flying in a wind tunnel – without being strapped to someone – grew. But he was still unsure:
“I wondered how it would work with my legs and whether I would really be able to go.”
He got the answer directly on the first flight: It works. And really well!
From nervousness to a feeling of freedom
Before the start, Giuliano received a detailed briefing and individual support from the experienced instructor team. And then the adventure began:
“I was surprised how well it worked. I was able to fly myself, keep control – it felt incredibly good.”
He was particularly impressed by the so-called cab flight: together with two instructors, he shot up into the wind tunnel and back down again – a moment full of adrenaline and excitement.
His conclusion: “Tingling nerves throughout the body and a feeling of freedom.”
Barriers? Not in the Windwerk
One of the biggest aha moments for Giuliano was how easy everything went – despite his wheelchair. Getting into the wind tunnel, the flying itself and the on-site support:
“Not a problem, not an issue at all. I was pleasantly surprised.”
The experience showed him (once again) that adventures don’t have to fail because of physical limitations:
“It means a lot to me because I realize that I can still experience things that are exciting and get the adrenaline pumping. And I can do it almost independently.”
An experience that gives courage
For many people with disabilities, finding suitable leisure activities is a challenge. Indoor skydiving proves this: With the right support, extraordinary adventures are also possible. Giuliano highly recommends it:
“There’s no reason to doubt. Just give it a try. The team takes great care of you and you feel comfortable. I would recommend it to anyone.”
Conclusion? Indoor skydiving as an experience shows what inclusion in leisure activities can look like. Giuliano’s story proves it: You don’t have to be able to do everything perfectly to experience something great. Sometimes courage is enough – and a wind tunnel.
