Nick Pelios
Freediver, Creator
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Nick Pelios
Freediver, Creator
As with many life pursuits, the most valuable lessons in freediving often come through experience. However, it doesn’t always have to be that way. Here are a few important insights, reflecting on the things we wishe we had known when we first embarked on our underwater journey.
Freediving may seem like a sport reserved for the elite, but in reality, it’s remarkably accessible to anyone in good health. While holding your breath for minutes or reaching great depths can sound superhuman, these feats are well within the capacity of the average person. The greatest barrier is often psychological—many assume they lack the extraordinary abilities needed for prolonged underwater exploration. Yet, the human body is already equipped with remarkable adaptations, ready to be unlocked through proper training and patience.
Choosing a freediving instructor is more than a practical decision—it’s a pivotal one. The dynamic between teacher and student is key, and you want an instructor who not only understands the sport but also fits your learning style and needs. It’s easy to be dazzled by impressive numbers, like how deep they can dive, but what truly matters is their experience, teaching philosophy, and ability to create a supportive learning environment. Always ask about their methods and make sure they prioritise your safety, motivation, and comfort. Reviews and recommendations can be a good guide—after all, a skilled instructor should never hesitate to answer your questions.
In any new sport, it’s natural to expect rapid progress, but freediving isn’t about instant results. In fact, focusing too much on targets early on can hinder your enjoyment and success. Freediving is a sport of relaxation, where calmness is key. The more you chase specific goals, the more stress you introduce—and stress is the enemy of a good dive. Instead, approach freediving with curiosity and joy. Learn to appreciate the serene moments in the water, and let performance improvements come as a byproduct of your enjoyment.
We live in a connected world, and freediving is no exception. Even without access to regular water sessions, online training has become a powerful tool for freedivers at all levels. Many instructors now offer comprehensive virtual programs that can significantly enhance both physical and mental preparation. Some students have begun their freediving journeys entirely online before ever setting foot in the water. Whether you're training between trips or just beginning, online guidance can fast-track your progress and bolster your confidence.
Don’t let geography limit your freediving aspirations. While regular access to water is ideal, there’s much you can do on dry land to sharpen your skills. Dry training allows you to practice safely at your own pace and strengthen key areas, from lung capacity and diaphragm flexibility to mental techniques like visualisation. This type of training helps to develop the mammalian dive reflex, and the results often speak for themselves when you finally get back in the water. Even without specialised equipment, you can make meaningful strides in your training from the comfort of your home.
Freediving is as much about restraint as it is about depth. Beginners are often eager to maximise their time in the water, but it’s important to resist the urge to overtrain. While freediving may seem like a leisurely activity, it can be physically demanding. Overdoing it can lead to fatigue, injury, and burnout, all of which can slow your progress. Balance your underwater sessions with adequate rest, and remember that taking breaks is just as crucial to your development as time spent diving.
Equalisation is the cornerstone of freediving—something you must master early on. It’s easy to get caught up in the wonder of the ocean and forget about the technical aspects, but failing to equalise properly can lead to painful barotrauma, particularly in the ears. This is a common issue for beginners, and it can result in extended recovery time out of the water. By prioritising equalisation from the start, you’ll protect yourself from injury and ensure a more enjoyable dive.
Many new freedivers rush out to purchase the latest and greatest gear, assuming it will improve their performance. But in reality, investing too early in equipment can be a costly mistake. It’s worth renting gear initially and trying different setups before committing to big purchases. Not only will this save you money, but it’ll also help you make more informed decisions. Freediving equipment is a long-term investment, and you want to be sure you’re choosing the right gear for your needs.