Lemmings

With the BHPA system you learn to do the ground work, pulling a wing up and controlling it. Then your first hop may be 50ft up and slowly working you way to the top of a hill until you glide down to the bottom with no worries.

Then when you have sat an exam and been given an elementary pilot rating they will do a conversion course to teach you how to pull a wing up with a motor on your back. This is very different because you have to gain new skills and forget what they have shown you to take off to glide.

As with a lot of sports you may ask yourself "Can I teach myself to do this?" and some people can. But unlike other sports if it goes wrong then you won't get a second chance.

I did teach myself, and know others that have as well. We spent a lot of time reading books, watching videos and asking others that fly questions. We were very lucky and had a great time and the truth be known I am still learning two and a half years on (got to master a wing over and lots of other things).

Since I had my first flight I have seen many more people with the same grin as they land and can hardly believe that they have just been flying. Its an unforgettable experience.

The BMAA method also starts with ground control but the techniques they show you are for motoring and not gliding so there is no negative training that you have to forget. Then you will fly tandem with a pilot.

After take off you take the controls and learn how to fly, all the time in contact with the teacher up there with you. After three or four flights you might even get to land it. When the instructor finally thinks your ready (if you are) then you will make your first solo flight.

Both systems have good and bad points. If you want to free fly as well as motor then the BHPA way is for you.

If you want to motor then the BMAA way is very good and a lot quicker (one or two weeks is possible) the BHPA way can take a year.

I would also add that members of the BHPA in my option look down on motoring as something done only when you can't free fly, whereas the BMAA are always flying and pushing the sport forward.

The other way is DIY. I've done it and had a great time, I've been scared, I felt great but I've not injured myself or others.

Only you can decide which way you want to learn. Whatever way you choose be safe. Get as much knowledge as you can and have fun that's why your doing it