As divers, few things are as satisfying as mastering a new skill. Whether we’re conquering new specialities or tackling more technical dive sites for the first time, we’re incredibly lucky that the world of scuba offers ample opportunities for development. However, from time to time, it’s also nice to push beyond this world entirely and experience the ocean in a completely different way.
If you’re looking to shake up your time in the water, it could be time to try freediving. Freediving, which involves going beneath the surface on just one breath, has some crossover with scuba diving but is ultimately its own activity that warrants learning in its own right. Advanced breath-holding techniques are required to freedive safely, with a huge range of benefits awaiting those who can master this unique experience. Freediving really is as fascinating as it sounds, and whether you are seeking thrills or wanting to test your personal limits, here are five compelling reasons why you should give in to the intrigue and try freediving.
See A Different Side To The Ocean
Arguably the most compelling reason to try freediving is the fact that it allows you to experience a completely different side to the ocean. Scuba divers will be well aware of just how incredible it is to go beneath the surface and doing so by freediving adds another dimension to this fascinating underwater world. Without the presence of a tank, freedivers can move more quietly through the water and enjoy almost total silence. It’s hard to explain just how incredible this experience feels until you try freediving for yourself, but we like to think of it as a totally tranquil moment between you, your buddy, and the ocean in its most natural state.
Freediving is also a great way to upgrade the experiences you might have as a keen snorkeller. While much of the equipment utilised for the two is the same, freediving lets you get beneath the surface safely and explore the fantastic marine landscapes that are just out of reach when snorkelling at the surface.
Physical & Mental Health Benefits
When we get asked ‘why do people freedive?’, we’re often taken aback at how many people fail to consider the fact it is great for your health. While it may be the exhilarating idea of holding your breath and experiencing apnea that will initially persuade you to try freediving, it’s often the physical and mental health benefits that keep you coming back.
Physically, freediving is great for your cardiovascular fitness. The need to hold your breath for extended periods of time improves your CO2 tolerance and increases your lung capacity, all while strengthening core muscles and improving your flexibility. Mentally, the focus on breath control forces your body to relax and chill out which can be particularly transformative if you are feeling anxious or worried. Combined, these benefits also work together to reduce your heart rate, making you a healthier and happier individual both in the water and after your dive as you go about your daily life.
Minimal Equipment Required
As we have mentioned already, one of the most notable differences between scuba diving and freediving is the equipment required and natural feel of the resulting experience. When you try freediving, it’s not just your tank you’ll leave at home - all you need is a mask, snorkel and fins to get started!
The lack of requirement for extensive or heavy equipment makes freediving a highly accessible and budget-friendly activity perfect for those wanting to try something new without a significant upfront investment or commitment. Let’s not be mistaken though - we are pretty confident that you will get hooked once you try freediving for the first time! Once you have had a bit of an introduction, it’s at this point that you might want to invest a little in a specialist, low-profile mask and longer fins.
Perfect For Travel
Being able to freedive is a fantastic skill to have if you are a keen traveller. Because it requires so little equipment, it’s incredibly easy to pack up your freediving gear and head to any destination with water to explore. Once you’ve mastered breath-holding techniques, you can effectively take your new skills anywhere in the world to spot new marine life and reefs in some seriously exotic destinations… or simply head out closer to home with much more spontaneity than if you had bulky kit in tow!
Meet Likeminded People
The benefits of freediving extend well beyond your time in the water thanks to the vibrant community that the activity has created. Freedivers are a particularly welcoming bunch, who are always keen to share their rare experiences and discuss tips and tricks for mastering breath-holding techniques. Even the most experienced freedivers can learn from each other due to the unique nature of the activity, whether that’s by discovering a new way to relax and get in the right frame of mind or by finding out about an incredible hidden travel destination!
Take a freediving course with Aquanauts and you’ll instantly meet like-minded people and become part of this wonderful community. We are delighted to be able to offer a complete range of PADI freediving courses, including the PADI Freediver course which offers a complete introduction to the fascinating world of apnea. To find out more and make your plans to try freediving, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.