Fifty is indeed the new thirty. A quirky trend is sweeping the nation. Both men and women are celebrating their 50th birthday by going skydiving! Perhaps it is about proving that one is still youthful and vital, or maybe it is simply an unrealized dream from days gone by, but more and more, fine 'fifty-somethings' - as well as people of all ages - are taking the leap.

Skydiving is surprisingly affordable these days. A tandem dive runs $229 and an accelerated freefall dive goes for $329 in mid-western states. A professionally edited video complete with music will memorialize the experience for an extra $79.

So what if you purchase a gift certificate as a birthday present for your adventurous friend or family member and it turns out that s/he isn't so adventurous after all? These gift certificates are completely transferable, and less daring observers can ride along in the plane for $39 a seat.

Enter your area of the country into a search engine to find a skydiving center near you. Here's an example of one such center.  .

Those who get hooked on the skydiving experience will be delighted to find that jumps get more economical as you progress to higher levels of diving proficiency.

Posted by Melody.