Level 1 Freediver
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Whether a complete beginner or an informally trained freediver/spearfisherman with years of experience, this course will set you on the right path to eliminate bad habits and show you the most efficient and safe freedive techniques.
During this course students master the fundamentals of the FII education system in an easy-to-learn course format operating between the classroom, pool and open water setting. With a high emphasis on safety and comfort, students master the proper skills to effectively operate up to depths of 66 feet/20 meters.
Course Syllabus
Level 1 Safety & Problem Management
Freediving Equipment
Physics and Physiology for the Level 1 Freediver
Freediving Technique Development
Correct Breathing for Freediving
Breathing and Breath-Hold Technique Development
Student learning materials: FII Level 1 Freediver manual and workbook. All course materials are provided by the instructor at the beginning of each course.
Minimum age requirement: Participants must be 16 years or older
Cost: Level 1 courses are $525 and includes boat fee, book and certification card. Payment is due at time of reservation. If a conflict occurs please contact the instructor to re-schedule or refund.
Equipment required for the course: Mask, snorkel, wetsuit, fins, weightbelt, weights and a timing device. Most of the gear you may already own for scuba diving or snorkeling may be sufficient for the course. Below is a more detailed recommendation on gear.
Mask - A low volume mask is preferable to a standard higher volume and profile scuba mask.
Snorkel - Generally the simplest soft silicone J snorkel is best for what we do.
Wetsuit – A two piece open cell freediving wetsuit is arguably one of, if not the most important pieces of equipment for a freediver. Any wetsuit you own will be sufficient as long as it has some neoprene for buoyancy. 3mm and 5mm open cell wetsuits are available to rent for the course at $15/day.
Fins – Any fin will work but a long blade freediving fin in a full foot pocket is best.
Weightbelt – Neoprene or nylon belts will work for the course but are discouraged. A rubber belt with a Marseille or latch style buckle is the right tool for this job.
Weights – Smaller weight increment (1-2lb) weights are best and allow for more refined buoyancy adjustments.
Timing Device – Any waterproof timing device will work for this course. Freediving computers are encouraged but not required until Level 2
Schedule:
Day 1.
7:45am - Meet at Benthic Ocean Sports, bring all paperwork and gear.
Noon – Break for Lunch
1pm – Meet back up at the Emerald Coast Scuba pool (directly behind the Benthic classroom). Make sure to bring all your dive equipment with you.
Day 2. Open water dives. Instructor will determine appropriate time and location based on weather and sea condition.