Have you ever wondered how humans can dive into deep water for long periods of time with no breathing apparatus in freediving equipment? Maybe you’ve pondered whether there really are differences between freediving and snorkeling. Here are the responses to some of the most frequently asked questions about learning to free dive.
What Is Freediving?
Scuba diving into deep waters using the use of only one breath without breathing apparatus is referred to as ‘freediving’. Freedivers make use of inward control discipline, and power to descend into the ocean while holding their breath until they emerge. Freediving can be a fun and competitive sport, with many freediving competitions taking place regularly all over the world.
What Is the Difference Between Snorkeling and Freediving?
Although both freediving and snorkeling require similar equipment, these two sports differ in many ways. Snorkelers lie on the bottom of the ocean looking down using their masks while breathing through the snorkels. Whereas, freedivers dive deep beneath the ocean’s surface holding their breath until they come back up. Freedivers are only using their snorkel just at the surface of the ocean and are able to remove the snorkel before they sink.
If I Can’t Hold My Breath for a Long Time Does That Mean I Can’t Freedive?
This is among the most widely-held misconceptions about freediving. If you’re trained properly you’ll learn breath-hold techniques that are likely to leave you amazed at how long you are able to hold your breath.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim?
While you don’t need to have the qualifications of an Olympic swimmer to be able to complete the course, it is vital that you feel comfortable within the waters. To become a freediver you’ll need to be proficient in swimming 200 meters/218 yards. The swim is not timed and can be completed using any stroke, so it’s possible to take your time. You’ll also have to learn different breath-hold techniques. Some of which involves swimming underwater or at depth.
How Old Do I Need to Be to Start Freediving?
To be enrolled in this Freediver course you must be at least 15 years old. If you’re less than 15 and would like to learn free-dive, we offer specially designed courses available. Those aged 12 years or more can take this Basic Freediver course and any person aged eight years of age or older can start with their Skin Diver course.
How Long Does It Take to Get Certified?
PADI training is designed so that the skills required can be learned regardless of time limits. Certain people might find these skills easier to master while others may require a little more time. No matter what your skill level the Freediver program will make sure that you have the necessary skills for a safe free-diving experience.