Freediving is a sports that is generating a lot of attention lately. Both in its recreational and competitive mode, it is one of the latest trends that can be found today. Those who practice it, especially highlight the freedom and relaxation it offers the athlete. As well as the unique experience it provides to those who practice it
Going Freediving is really simple. Freediving is defined as a sport where you voluntarily suspend your breath. Depending on your level of experience it is possible to remain a greater or smaller amount of time. Nevertheless, and in spite of the experience, it is a sport in which training is key to obtain the best result and, mainly, to minimize the possible risks. In this type of sport, safety is something to be taken really serious. To do so, it is necessary to comply with a series of measures such as always going with a partner and not pushing your limits.
Freediving has different modalities, which can be done in both recreational or competitive manner, these are:
- Constant weight Freediving: Descending and Ascending close to a rope using fins (sometimes even without) without touching the rope.
- Dynamic Freediving: Horizontal swimming in the pool with or without fins trying to achieve the maximum distance possible.
- Static Apnea: Maximum time without moving, mostly in the pool. The face has to be under water, the body is floating on the surface. (see picture)
- Variable Weight Freediving: Descending with the help of a weight and letting go at depth. Ascending with positive buoyancy and/or your own strength.
- Free Immersion: Descending and Ascending by pulling on a rope. No fins are used.
Diving without any SCUBA equipment
The main characteristic that define freediving is that it allows us to dive without any diving equipment. How deep you get depends on the capacities of each freediver and must be trained to increase the depth gradually and meter by meter. However, as technology and security measures have advanced, some professional divers have now managed to go beyond the 120-meter barrier.
While it is true that this type of practice is not recommended for people who are just starting out in the discipline, the reality is that professionals use their own methodology. Tying themselves to a vertical rope to avoid suffering disorientation.
What are the risks of freediving?
As with any other sport, freediving also has its risks when it comes to carrying out its practice. Especially in cases where you do not have the necessary experience or training. Freediving courses prepare you to carry out this type of activity in the safest way possible, covering various points such as correct breathing and the solution of typical problems of this sport.
Nevertheless, and contrary to the general belief, the reality is that freediving has no specific highlightable risk. As long as you follow the rules and recommendations made by a professional or an instructor. Therefore, it is important that before carrying out this activity we trust our needs to a team of professionals, able to offer you the best possible experience.
Freediving has been consolidated as one of the most booming sport disciplines of the moment. Having a team of specialists is key to enjoying all its advantages.
Did you know that we also offer freediving courses here at Scubanana? In spite of being specialized in scuba diving with equipment we have decided to dive also in the world of freediving. If you are interested in doing your PADI Freediver course with us contact us through the contact form.