During your upcoming diving adventure, try out these five simple strategies—they could help you dive like a pro.
Do what needs to be done.
Start by shedding a pound or two on your next attempt. By doing so and adhering to the four tips below, you may be able to manage with starting off with slightly less weight.
Keep a Dive Log.
Keep track of the weight measurement you use for each dive. Also, note the thickness of the neoprene in your wetsuit. This will help you adjust your weighting for future dives and serve as a reference for when you dive at the same site again.
Utilize the Deflator.
As you begin your descent for the dive, raise the inflator hose above your head and extend it slightly upward. Make sure its connection to the BC is at the highest point. Not descending? Ensure you’ve exhaled all the air from your lungs and try pressing the BC against your chest with your free arm to eliminate any air pockets that might be affecting your buoyancy. If that doesn’t work, use the dive line. Once you reach 15 or 20 feet, the water pressure should help you descend.
Take as much time as is needed and Relax.
At the beginning of your descent, take a few deep breaths at the surface to get into the right mindset for diving. This will help calm any nerves. Descend as quietly as possible — if feet first, try to angle your fins downward so they don’t impede your descent. Avoid flailing your arms or kicking your legs. Once you’ve reached the agreed-upon meeting spot with your buddy — such as the mooring pin or another location, pause and make sure you’re comfortable, relaxed, and ready to explore.
Utilize Your Breath.
A lung full of air can add up to 10 pounds of buoyancy. Completely exhale as you start your descent. Once at depth, aim to breathe steadily and consistently. Before reaching for the inflator/deflator hose to manage your buoyancy, relax and use your breaths to control it. With each breath in, you should begin to rise. Exhale, and you should start sinking. If you need to use the inflator for neutral buoyancy, try using it sparingly — give just a short burst and let it adjust. If you’re constantly adding or removing air from your BC, you’ll feel like a submerged yo-yo — and you’ll lose enjoyment of the dive.
