Advanced Thermal Techniques

Advanced Thermal Techniques

Thermal soaring is one of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of paragliding. This advanced guide covers the techniques that separate good pilots from great ones.

Understanding Thermal Formation

• Thermals are columns of rising air created by uneven heating of the earth's surface.
• Visualize how thermals form and move; terrain features like plowed fields, rocky slopes, and south-facing hills are common sources.

Finding Thermals

• Look for birds circling, dust devils, or cumulus clouds forming above likely sources.
• Use terrain and environmental clues to anticipate where thermals will form.

Core Centering

• Position yourself in the strongest part of the thermal using subtle weight shifts and brake inputs.
• Monitor your vertical speed indicator and adjust your circle to maximize climb rate.
• Practice tight, efficient turns without stalling the wing.

Managing Multiple Thermal Sources

• During cross-country flights, decide when to leave one thermal to find a stronger one.
• Develop patience and good decision-making for optimal climbs.

Advanced Climbing Techniques

• Understand thermal streets and convergence zones for long-distance flights.
• Use terrain features to your advantage, such as ridges and valleys that channel thermals.
• Practice entering and exiting thermals efficiently to maintain altitude and speed.

Thermal Safety

• Be aware of other pilots in the thermal; maintain safe separation and predictable flight paths.
• Monitor changing weather conditions; strong thermals can indicate approaching instability.

Useful Tips

• Start with gentle thermals in good conditions and gradually progress to more challenging situations.
• Use a variometer with audio feedback to help center and stay in the core.
• Keep a flight log to track your progress and learn from each flight.