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Free-diving refers to various aquatic activities that share the practice of breath-hold diving. For competitive Free Diving see Competitive Apnea 1068.
Popularity
As a recreational sport in its own right free diving is not a popular activity, because of its limitations when considered against snorkeling. As a technique used as a necessary part of other sports it is extremely popular.
Location
Free diving and under water swimming are possible in almost any water of sufficient depth, however most sports using free diving techniques tend to be pool based.
Age
There are no age limits to free diving, other than those of common sense. As with all forms of diving, it is always recommended that for safety one not dive alone, but rather with a buddy
Ability
Assuming that you can swim, the main obstacle to diving is likely to be the psychological barrier of immersing your head. This is easily overcome with the help of a swimming instructor.
Description
The crucial step in gaining underwater mobility is adopting a suitable posture. To do this, first try to reach an object on the floor of the pool that is within your depth. It will be difficult to reach from an upright posture. To get your hands to the object, jump up, bend your body well forward, throw your feet in the air, and try to reach the object, head foremost. The next step might be, to swim a few metres towards the object on the surface, and then dive for it.
Dedication
Swimming underwater should follow quite naturally given some practice. It is largely a matter of maintaining a slightly inverted posture so as to counteract the natural buoyancy of the lungs and to conserve your energy as much as possible. This is best achieved by moving slowly and calmly. Strokes used in surface swimming must be adapted somewhat, and some arm movements (such as those of the crawl) cannot be used.
Potential
Swimming and diving competently are an important prerequisite to all other water based activities.
Closely
Related Activities
Synchronised Swimming 596, Underwater Rugby 783, Octapush 445, The sport of Life saving 360, High board diving 204, Apnea 1068, Snorkeling 781.
Cost
There is no cost associated with this activity other than possible tuition fees.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
|
Legs
|
Sight
|
Hearing
|
Speech |
Learning |
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