The canopies used today bear little resemblance to the classic round canopies of years gone by. They are more like gliders than umbrellas. The aerodynamics of the square canopy provide it with exceptional maneuverability, allowing the jumpers to land almost anywhere they wish. This wing shape also provides tippy-toe soft landings for even the novice jumper. The days of landing like a sack of flour are history.
Most students land standing up on their first jump.
That is why they land so hard. This allows for some radical maneauvers in freefall. However, such jumps should only be attempted by expert skydivers, and preferably after long discussion with one of the many skysurfers who have experience. Some board manufacturers and experienced skydsurfers offer instructional classes or videotapes. While being an expert skydiver isn't an absolute requirement, you need a great deal of experience in parachute packing, canopy control, quick reflexes, and body position awareness before this can be attempted with any real safety.