Ridge lift is another power source. While suspended in the harness system, the pilot steers a hang glider by shifting his or her center of balance. Leaning forward and backward causes the glider to dive or climb. This motion changes the angle of attack and is used to take off and land, as well as to control speed during the flight. Shifting from side to side causes the glider to bank into turns.
Pilots use a control bar to move their weight in relation to the wings.
Other recommended equipment includes a helmet, parachute, variometer , and altimeter . Breaking gliding records is difficult, but designers are always trying to glide farther, faster, and higher. You've seen hang glider pilots running into the wind to take off. Hang gliders need a total airspeed of 20 mph to take off. Decrease the angle of attack, and the glider dives and speeds up.