Passing requirement for Freedive Level 1
Let take a look and Requirements first
Requirements
Swim 200m unassisted, non-stop in a pool setting
Passing Requirements
Pool requirements (for Wave 1 & Lap 1)
1 min 30 sec static
30m DYNB
Open Water requirements (for Wave 1)
CWTB & FIM 12-20m
CWTB Buddying 6-10m
Rescue from 6-10m
Let's break it down:
Before starting your first freediving course or our Wave 1 course, you need to swim 200 meters independently. Knowing the basics of swimming is helpful. If you struggle with swimming or feeling uneasy in water, consider taking 4 to 5 swimming sessions to learn the basics.
When I began my freediving course, I could only swim about 50 meters. The good thing about freediving is that with a mask and snorkel, you won't drown, and panic is less likely. So, if you're not a strong swimmer, it's alright. Just be prepared to feel a bit more nervous than others initially. It might take you some extra time to get comfortable in the water.
Now, let's focus on the pool requirements. Achieving a 1 minute 30 second static breath-hold is realistic for the majority of individuals. Static breath-hold involves holding your breath without any movement while your face is submerged in the water. This is typically taught in the first class, where you'll learn proper techniques and breathing methods. With effective guidance, many students can extend their static breath-hold to 2 to 3 minutes by mastering correct breathing. Yet, having a knowledgeable instructor is crucial, as people can respond to this mentally in various ways. An experienced instructor can help address these differences and provide support.
For DYNB (Dynamic-Bifin), you'll use fins to swim underwater for 30 meters, just a bit more than half the length of an Olympic pool. If you tend to panic easily, this might be a bit challenging. However, learning the right breathing techniques can make it much easier. A quick test is to hold your breath and walk slowly for 25-30 seconds. If you can do this, you'll likely pass this requirement easily.
Moving to open water requirements, CWTB (Constant Weight Bifin) and FIM (Free Immersion) involve going to deeper waters. CWTB requires descending to at least 12 meters and returning on a single breath. This is comparatively easier than the 30-meter breath-hold swim, as it's a 24-meter round trip. The key challenge here is equalization, which is essential for depth freediving.
Equalization is crucial for depth freediving. If you can't equalize, you can't dive deep. But don't worry, I'll teach you how to master this in a few hours. If you still struggle, we offer equalization workshops and training to help you get the hang of it. Finding an experienced instructor to guide you is important for mastering equalization, and once you've got it, other open water skills become much simpler.
In FIM (Free Immersion), you'll pull yourself down a rope to the same depth as CWTB. It's easier because it requires less energy than finning down.
Finally, CWTB Buddying and Rescue from 6m involves partnering up during open water depth training or fun dives. In freediving, we never dive alone, and this skill is vital for helping fellow freedivers. You'll practice rescuing someone from a depth of at least 6 meters if they encounter difficulties.
Passing requirement for Freedive Level 1 should be your first goal, your goal is to learn proper breathing techniques and enjoy freediving.
In summary, finding an experienced instructor who can teach you proper breathing and equalization techniques can help you pass these requirements on your first attempt. And that's exactly what I offer at my school :)
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