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So, you’ve completed your freediving course, but you didn’t tick off all the requirements. Don’t worry—you’re not alone!
Many freedivers need a little extra time and practice to meet those last few milestones. The most important thing to remember is that freediving is a journey, not a race. Progress at your own pace, enjoy the process, and focus on becoming a better, more confident diver.
At Deep Sensations Freediving, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you didn’t meet all your requirements, here are three key approaches to help you get there.
1. Practice Dry Equalisation Training
Equalisation is one of the most challenging skills for new freedivers to master, and it’s often the reason people struggle to meet depth requirements.
Do you feel like you will never get the hang of it? All of us have been there!
Remember trying to drive manual for the first time, or starting a new job? It is all overwhelming and seems like an insurmountable obstacle, but with time, it eventually becomes autonomous. Equalisation is the exact same. You will get there, it just takes practice...just like all other skills.
The good news? You don’t need to be in the water to improve your equalisation technique.
Dry equalisation training is a fantastic way to refine your skills and build confidence. Start with basic Frenzel practice and work on controlling your soft palate and tongue. Tools like a nose clip, balloon, or equalisation trainer can simulate the sensations of depth and help you practise at home. Dedicate a few minutes each day to your training—it’s amazing how much progress you can make with consistency.
If equalisation feels like a roadblock for you, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to provide resources and personalised tips to help you unlock this essential skill.
Need a refresher on how to frenzel equalise and best ways to train it? Watch this.
Download our Equalisation Mastery eBook for more exercises and training
2. Build Your Comfort with Apnea Training
Improving your breath-hold capacity is another important step in reaching your freediving goals. Apnea training is something you can do safely on your own, as long as you stick to dry (land-based) exercises.
Here are a few ideas to get started:
CO2 Tables: These help you build tolerance to rising carbon dioxide levels and extend your breath-hold time.
O2 Tables: Designed to improve your body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently, these exercises can help you relax and stay calm during a dive.
Breathwork Practices: Incorporate relaxation techniques to manage your breathing patterns and tap into the parasympathetic nervous system. This will help you conserve energy and stay in control underwater.
Remember, these exercises are about progression. Don’t push yourself too hard—train within your limits and prioritise safety at all times.
3. Go Fun Diving
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is step back and dive for the sheer joy of it. Grab a buddy, head to your favourite dive spot, and spend some time exploring the underwater world without any pressure. Fun dives allow you to apply the skills and tools you’ve learned in a relaxed, enjoyable environment.
During these dives:
Focus on your technique without worrying about meeting specific requirements.
Practice what feels natural, like your duck dive, finning, or body position.
Build your comfort in the water while reconnecting with what you love about freediving.
You'll find that equalising while diving in a diagonal position, rather than fully inverted in a vertical line position, can make the process significantly easier. This approach allows for a more gradual increase in pressure, reducing strain on your Eustachian tubes and providing more time for your body to adjust. Diving at an angle also encourages a more neutral and relaxed head position, which can help prevent tension that often hinders equalisation. It’s a great way to build confidence and refine your technique, making the transition back to vertical line diving smoother and more successful.
Freediving is meant to be fun and fulfilling, so don’t let the pressure of “requirements” take away from the joy of the sport. You’ll often find that after a few fun dives, you’re more than ready to tackle the next step.
What’s Next?
When you feel ready, book a depth or pool session to complete your remaining requirements. Whether it’s hitting a specific depth, nailing your rescue skills, or fine-tuning your equalisation, targeted practice sessions are the perfect opportunity to close the loop on your course.
At Deep Sensations Freediving, we want to make your journey as stress-free as possible. That’s why we allow our Wave 1 course students to train for free to complete any remaining requirements. Our policy ensures you have the support and resources you need without extra financial burden. All you need to do is book a session, and we’ll help you every step of the way.
Progress Over Perfection
Freediving isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about progress. Every time you get in the water, practise dry exercises, or go for a fun dive, you’re building your skills and confidence. The requirements will come naturally when you’re ready, and until then, the most important thing is to enjoy the process.
If you’re feeling unsure about your next steps, we’re always here to help. Whether it’s advice on equalisation, personalised training plans, or a community of like-minded divers, Deep Sensations Freediving is committed to your success.
So, take a deep breath, dive into the process, and remember—this is your freediving journey. Embrace it, enjoy it, and let us help you make it unforgettable.
Ready to get back in the water and complete your requirements?
Book a session with us today or reach out for personalised support.
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