What are the SSI Freediver Course Requirements?

The SSI Level 1 Freediving Course: Your First Step into the Freediving World

Freediving is more than just holding your breath—it’s about mastering technique, relaxation, and safety to explore the ocean with confidence. The SSI Level 1 Freediving Course is the perfect entry point for those looking to build a strong foundation in freediving while experiencing the freedom and tranquility of being underwater on a single breath.

What is the SSI Level 1 Course?

The SSI Level 1 Freediving Course is designed for beginners with no prior experience, as well as uncertified freedivers, spearos, surfers and other ocean goers who want expand their confidence and capabilities. It combines theory, pool/confined water training, and open water sessions to equip you with the skills needed to freedive safely and comfortably. The course focuses on breath-hold techniques, equalisation, safety procedures, and proper diving techniques to help you become a confident freediver.

Key Requirements to Pass the SSI Level 1 Freediving Course

1. Theory Exam

Before getting in the water, you’ll complete online learning modules covering essential freediving principles, including physics, physiology, safety procedures, and relaxation techniques. The exam ensures you understand key concepts like the mammalian dive reflex, CO2 tolerance, equalisation techniques, and rescue procedures.

2. Static Apnea

In a confined water session, you’ll practice breath-holding (static apnea) and aim for a minimum of 1 minute and 30 seconds. This is designed to help you become comfortable with breath-hold sensations and introduce relaxation techniques to extend your apnea time.

3. Dynamic Apnea

You’ll also complete a dynamic apnea swim of at least 30 meters. This involves swimming underwater in a pool while holding your breath, which helps you develop efficient finning technique, relaxation, and oxygen management skills.

4. Equalisation Skills

Proper equalisation is crucial for a comfortable and safe descent. Throughout the course, you’ll learn to apply techniques like Frenzel or Valsalva to ensure you can equalise efficiently and avoid discomfort or injury.

5. Safety and Rescue Techniques

Freediving is a buddy sport, and safety is a top priority. You’ll need to demonstrate your ability to:

• Perform a rescue from a depth of 5 meters

• Execute proper buddy procedures

• Demonstrate effective surface rescue breathing techniques

• Understand and apply freediving safety protocols

6. Open Water Freediving (Constant Weight Dive)

The final challenge of the course is completing a constant weight freedive to a depth of 10-20 meters. This means diving down and ascending using your fins, focusing on streamlining, relaxation, equalisation, and controlled descents/ascent techniques.

7. Breathing & Recovery Techniques

You’ll learn diaphragmatic breathing, CO2 tolerance training, and proper recovery breathing techniques to maximise relaxation and efficiency while diving. Managing your breathing before and after dives plays a crucial role in extending your time underwater and preventing hypoxia.

8. Free Immersion & Duck Diving

In open water, you’ll also practice free immersion diving (pulling yourself down a rope without kicking) and duck diving (entering the water smoothly for efficient descents). These skills will help you conserve oxygen and improve your freediving efficiency.

Focus on Learning, Not Just Requirements!

While the SSI Level 1 course has set requirements, the real goal is education and skill development rather than just passing tests. Unlike scuba diving, where certifications are mandatory to dive, freediving is about self-improvement and building confidence in the water.

If you don’t meet all the depth or breath-hold requirements on your first attempt—don’t stress! At Deep Sensations Freediving, you can return within 12 months to complete any outstanding skills with a coaching or pool session rather than redoing the entire course, at no additional cost!

Why Choose the SSI Level 1 Freediving Course?

The SSI system is one of the world’s leading freediving education platforms, offering ongoing support, training materials, and access to a global community of freedivers. After completing the course, you’ll gain access to digital learning materials, training exercises, and instructor-led coaching to continue improving your skills.

Ready to Start Your Freediving Journey?

At Deep Sensations Freediving, we provide expert instruction in a relaxed, supportive environment to help you succeed in the SSI Level 1 Freediving Course. Whether you’re looking to push your limits, find a deeper connection to the ocean, or simply experience the joy of freediving—this course is your perfect starting point.

📅 Book your SSI Level 1 Freediving Course today and take your first breath-hold towards a new underwater adventure!