Have you ever wondered how divers can dive in deep water for long periods without breathing equipment? Or maybe you have questioned whether there are any differences between freediving and snorkeling. Here are the responses to some of the most commonly requested questions about learning to free dive.
What Is Freediving?
Diving into deep water with one breath and without any breathing apparatus is known as freediving. Freedivers employ inward control, discipline, and power to dive deep into the water and hold their breath until they surface while wearing freediving gear. Freediving is both a recreation and competition sport, with numerous freediving contests held annually all over the world.
What Is the Difference Between Snorkeling and Freediving?
While both snorkeling and freediving require the use of similar equipment, the two activities are quite different. Snorkelers are on the surface of the water looking down using their masks and breathing through their snorkels. In contrast, freedivers go deep below the ocean’s surface, holding their breath until they emerge. Freedivers only use their snorkel at the surface of the water, but they are also able to take off this piece of equipment before they sink.
If I Can’t Hold My Breath for a Long Time Does That Mean I Can’t Freedive?
This is one of the most common misconceptions about freediving. If you are properly trained you’ll be able to master breath-hold techniques that may leave you impressed by how long are able to hold your breath.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim?
While you don’t need to possess the skills of an Olympic swimmer to do the course, it is essential that you are confident in the water. To become a Freediver, you need to be capable of swimming 200 meters/218 yards. The swim is not timed and can be completed using any stroke, which means you are free to take your time. You’ll also need to learn several breath-hold methods, some of which involve swimming underwater and at depth.
How Old Do I Need to Be to Start Freediving?
To be enrolled in the Freediver course you must be at minimum 15 years old. If you’re younger than 15 years old and would like to learn to dive free, we offer specially designed courses available. Those aged 12 years or older can enroll in this Basic Freediver class and those aged 8 years or over can enroll in taking their Skin Diver course.
How Long Does It Take to Get Certified?
Courses are constructed so that the required skills can be mastered irrespective of specific time intervals. Certain individuals might find these skills easy to master while others may need to spend a bit more time. No matter what your skill level is the Freediver course will make sure that you have the necessary skills to safely free dive.