What starts as curiosity can sometimes become a passion.
After years of training in calisthenics and parkour, Kristie found a new challenge in cliff jumping—a sport that perfectly combines skill, adventure, and self-belief.
In this latest feature for our Seashell Spirit series, she opens up about learning to trust her instincts, embracing discomfort, and why sometimes the bravest decision is choosing not to jump.
How did you first discover cliff jumping, and what drew you to it?
I think it happened quite naturally. I was already training freestyle sports like calisthenics and parkour. I enjoyed learning flips, and I loved climbing rooftops and exploring the city. Over time, my Instagram feed started showing more cliff jumping content, and I was ready to try something new. I knew I probably wouldn’t be landing double flips on land anytime soon, but into water it opened up the opportunity to try bigger tricks. Cliff jumping is more than just jumping; it combines everything I love—adventure, exploring, and pushing myself to learn new skills.
Have you ever backed out of a jump, and what made you decide not to go?
I’ve walked away from plenty of jumps, and for lots of different reasons. More often than not, it’s a mental game—if I don’t feel mentally ready, I won’t do the jump. Sometimes it can even be a smaller jump, but something just doesn’t feel right. I’ve learned to trust that instinct because there’s always another day to come back when I’m fully confident and prepared.
What have these sports taught you about confidence?
Confidence isn’t always about doing the jump—sometimes it’s having the confidence to walk away. These sports have taught me to trust in myself and believe in what I’m capable of. Every adventure has pushed me outside my comfort zone, helping me grow stronger and more confident in myself. Looking back, I never would have imagined doing the things I do now.
Highest jump?
My highest jump to date is a 60ft waterfall at Lealt Falls on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. The weather that day was torrential, and even the climb up to the jump was intimidating. But everything came together, and it’s a moment I’ll never forget.
Thank you for sharing your Seashell Spirit with us, Kristie! Follow the journey on Instagram here.
Now get off the internet and get outside.
