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Ten Common Myths about Freediving

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Have you ever watched the end of an underwater natural history programme on TV, and seen the ‘making of’ section? It’s where the producers give you a view of how some of the documentary was filmed. Videographers are realising that freediving is the key to capturing footage of some of the larger creatures that move between the depths and the surface. I have watched many of these tail ends, and yet I still haven’t seen one where the camera person is making the most of their freediving potential. If they did, they may be able to spend hours or days on a shoot, instead of weeks or months. An extra 30 seconds underwater can make all the difference between a brilliant sequence and nothing but blue water. The same philosophy applies to the stills photographer.

Freediving - Ten Common Myths about Freediving by Mark Harris - photo 5Underwater photographers typically learn their art on SCUBA equipment, and it’s a common opinion that SCUBA diving is much more advanced than freediving. As a result, not all would-be freedivers with SCUBA experience go to the trouble of taking a training course, or even reading a training manual on the subject of freediving. The argument for doing this is (at least in part) a series of common myths. I have picked out what I believe to be the top 10 of these, and taken an alternative view, based on my experiences of freediving and SCUBA.

These myths of course, may well be shared by non-SCUBA divers and those that don’t use underwater photography equipment. Read on, and see if there are misconceptions you may have held…

1. Wearing a pair of long-bade fins means you are fully equipped for freediving

I’d be more inclined to suggest that wearing a pair of long-blade fins, if unfamiliar with using a newly purchased pair, makes you fully equipped for experiencing calf cramp! Unlike their SCUBA cousins, freediving fins come in different stiffness grades for different physiques. Buy a pair that are too stiff, and your legs won’t thank you. Of greater significance, is overlooking performance gains from using the full armoury of freediving equipment available. An open-cell freediving suit will ease your progress through the water, a ‘Marseilles’ weight belt will allow you to breathe more deeply, and the correct snorkel type will minimise drag. Some items only add minor benefits, but when combined, the sum of the various parts can make a substantial difference.

2. There’s no need for anyone else in the water to keep an eye on you

Anyone who holds their breath underwater introduces the risk of shallow water blackout. Anyone who experiences shallow water blackout on their own dies. There are very, very few exceptions to this. This is reason enough to freedive in pairs, but there are numerous other benefits that another pair of eyes and hands bring. The old counterargument here is, “I don’t hold my breath long enough or dive deep enough to experience black out”. Similarly, the Russian roulette player could argue, “I don’t put enough bullets in my pistol for it to fire each time”.

Freediving - Ten Common Myths about Freediving by Mark Harris- photo 23. You won’t have time to stretch or prepare your breathing before getting in the water

I never have time to update my status on Facebook, yet I do seem to make time to eat my breakfast in the mornings. We make time to do the things that need priority. We all know the benefits of stretching muscles before use, and reducing the likelihood of injury. But did you know that certain stretches can help with equalisation? Or that breath hold pre-conditioning delivers benefits for up to 10 minutes or so? If you are bouncing around in a RIB on the way to somewhere and you need to get into the action quickly, I appreciate there’s a challenge…but equally there is always a compromise, to whatever degree.

4. It’s more important than anything else to find a way of holding your breath for longer

Attend a freediving competition, and you may change your mind on this. Most pool-based competitions (did you know that the majority of freediving competitions are held in swimming pools?) have a ‘static’ breath hold discipline. You just hold your breath for as long as possible. The ‘dynamic’ discipline means swimming as far as you can in distance. You would expect the athletes with the longest breath hold times to be the longest distance swimmers. Occasionally that happens, but most times not. The best dynamic athletes just have the most efficient style and performance. And here’s the rub – breath hold ability takes time and gradual improvement. One aspect of bad style can often be corrected in an hour’s training session, and bring about significant improvement. From what I see of our wildlife photographers on television, there’s plenty of technique improvement possible for the vast majority.

5. Hyperventilating seems to be helpful

To send you to a watery grave, yes. Remember that shallow water blackout I referred to earlier? Hyperventilating makes that process a whole lot easier. It’s all about ‘blowing’ carbon dioxide out of the blood stream, and relaxing the urgency to want to breathe. At the same time, a number of other physiological processes happen, which reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the brain. So add the two effects together, and the lights can go out while you may think you are well within your comfort zone.

6. Surface floatation devices have no practical use for the freediver

Unless of course you want something to attach a dive flag to, deposit your snorkel inside (if the float has an inside), rest on after your dive, attach a weighted line to so that you dive downward in a straight line, or simply increase your visibility to your boat cover.

7. Using a weight belt is unnecessary and slows you down

Perhaps I’m cheating here – I must admit I haven’t actually heard anyone saying this, unlike most of the other myths. But from what I see, most inexperienced freedivers either don’t wear a belt, or more commonly don’t attach enough lead. They then use most of their energy fighting buoyancy throughout the dive. It’s probably another overspill from SCUBA diving, where experienced SCUBA divers wear as little lead as possible. I certainly don’t advocate overweighting, but the more neutral you attain your buoyancy, the more efficient your forward motion. Of course, adding lead isn’t the only solution – a little more depth will reduce buoyancy, as will a little less air in the lungs (with the emphasis on ‘little’). But you should be wearing a wetsuit, and therefore some ballast will be necessary. Body builders who refuse to wear wetsuits – you win the argument in this instance.

8. Freediving means getting closer to marine life and making physical contactFreediving - Ten Common Myths about Freediving by Mark Harris - photo 4

I think it’s fair to say that most of us overstep the mark here now and again, and get closer to wildlife than we should. The wildlife documentaries don’t set a good example, especially the sensationalist ones where we see the presenter wrestling with a large reptile. Just getting into the water and entering a wild animal’s territory is having some form of impact, so none of us are squeaky clean. I try to adopt the principle of the 3 R’s – Research, Regulations, and Respect. There’s no excuse for not finding out about the animal you are studying or filming, and I believe (or hope) that most of us do at least some research beforehand. But what are the legal regulations and recommendations about your presence? These should be observed too, as they are there for good reason. Beyond these two principles is the straightforward respect and commonsense we should apply. One particular type of image I am seeing now and again, is that of an oceanic shark with a freediver dangling from its dorsal fin. Has the shark given out a secret signal to say they would quite like to do this? Is there a hidden benefit to that particular shark, or the species as a whole from this activity? Or is it just ego and bravado on the part of two humans, encouraging others to do likewise until the inevitable accident occurs, and a retaliatory cull then ensues? Before you interact with wild creatures, ask yourself a few questions, and make sure you have good answers. Not to avoid fines or jail sentences, but in the interests of protection and conservation.

9. You have the flexibility to SCUBA dive in the morning followed by freediving in the afternoon

SCUBA diving causes nitrogen to dissolve into the blood and tissues, and takes some hours after the dive to be completely eliminated. You SCUBA people know this; it’s why you don’t fly until your dive computer clears. However, you can quite happily dive again an hour or so after your first SCUBA dive. This is because the dive tables and computer algorithms take into account your previous compression, and apply a penalty. There are no freediving tables (at least not yet), so the act of recompressing by freediving is not possible to assess. But it is certain that you won’t be doing a 3 minute safety stop at 5 metres on your freedive, and that you won’t be making a slow ascent either! If you have been on a liveaboard in the past, mixed SCUBA and freediving, and avoided decompression sickness…count yourself lucky.

Freediving - Ten Common Myths about Freediving by Mark Harris - photo 310. You won’t need a training course to teach you advanced snorkelling

If nothing you have read so far has been unknown to you, even then I would recommend being properly trained in freediving. You have the opportunity to gain recognised certification, have your technique analysed and corrected, gain full understanding of safety aspects and issues (I have only scratched the surface here), and meet other like-minded people. You might even have fun as well.

Mark Harris SCUBA dives, takes photographs underwater, writes and freedives. He has been 4 times UK freediving champion and teaches / coaches freediving when not writing about it. His first book is in production, and should be available in 2014.

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Dive into Adventure: Limited Space Available for January Socorro Liveaboard Trip with Oyster Diving

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Socorro Giant Mantas, Sharks and Dolphins – 8-16th January 2025

Oyster Diving is offering an unforgettable opportunity to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary dive destinations – Socorro Island. With only one male space left for this January’s liveaboard adventure, divers are invited to join an exclusive trip to explore the waters of Socorro, renowned for its remarkable marine life and incredible dive experiences.

Unmatched Diving in Socorro

Socorro is home to a unique population of giant oceanic mantas that actively seek interaction with divers and snorkelers, making it one of the best places in the world to encounter these majestic creatures. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – the waters surrounding Socorro are also teeming with marine life, including schooling hammerheads and silky sharks, over 10 other species of sharks, playful bottlenose dolphins that love to interact with divers, large schools of pelagic fish, and, during the season, humpback whales.

Luxury Aboard the Nautilus Belle Amie

Diving in such an extraordinary location is made even more special by the Nautilus Belle Amie. Launched in 2015, this modern, spacious liveaboard yacht is designed with divers in mind, ensuring comfort and luxury throughout the trip. The boat offers various suite options, including twin rooms and superior double suites, all with the ambiance of a boutique hotel. Divers will spend 8 days aboard the Belle Amie, with all meals, guided dives, and soft drinks included.

Pricing and Availability

This exclusive Socorro liveaboard trip is available for the following prices:

  • Twin Room (2 people sharing a Stateroom): £3360 per person
  • Superior Double Suite (2 people sharing): £3860 per person

Both prices include Socorro Island fees. A port fee of $35 is payable upon arrival.

Additional Costs:

  • Return economy flights: Approx. £1,000 – £1,300 per person (prices confirmed prior to booking)
  • One night hotel B&B accommodation before the liveaboard: Approx. £100 per person

Book Now

With only one spot left, this opportunity to explore Socorro’s spectacular underwater world is sure to fill up fast. Interested divers are encouraged to get in touch with Oyster Diving Holidays to secure their place today.

For more information and bookings, please contact:

Oyster Diving Holidays
Phone: 0800 699 0243
Email: info@oysterdiving.com

Don’t miss your chance to dive with mantas, sharks, dolphins, and humpbacks in one of the world’s most pristine marine environments!

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Marine Life & Conservation

12 Days of Zero-Waste Fish-mas

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This holiday period, the Marine Conservation Society, the UK’s leading ocean membership charity, invites you to make some simple changes to eating fish this Christmas to help our seas.

Dr Kenneth Bodles, Head of Fisheries and Aquaculture at the Marine Conservation Society, said, “During the festive season, our consumption increases, but so does waste. Sustainability isn’t just about where food comes from – it’s also about how you use it. By reducing waste and making the most out of your seafood, you’re not only taking steps to be more ocean-friendly, but can also help to cut costs during what is often one of the most expensive times of the year”.

The Marine Conservation Society has compiled twelve tips on how to consume seafood sustainably with zero-waste this Christmas:

Buy whole fish instead of fillets

Instead of fillets, consider buying whole fish such as salmon, hake, or lemon sole. By adopting a “nose to tail” approach with cooking, whole-baked fish not only feeds a crowd, but also helps to minimise waste and maximise sustainability by using up every part of the animal, including bones, skin, and fat.

Make fish stock

Leftover fish bones or shells can be put to good use by boiling them to make a nourishing fish stock or bisque. This can be frozen and preserved for later use and makes for a flavourful base in a soup.

Make your own fish pâté

Avoid waste by turning leftover fish, such as smoked mackerel or salmon, into a delicious pâté by blending with cream cheese and lemon. Perfect when paired with crackers.

The sustainability of salmon and mackerel varies depending on where and how it is caught or farmed. For more information on green-rated options, check the charity’s Good Fish Guide.

Buy frozen

By purchasing seafood that is frozen or vacuum-packed, this helps to reduce waste by extending the shelf life of your food.

Fish pie

If you’re wondering what to do with leftover cooked fish, why not opt for a classic fish pie with mashed potatoes, leeks, and a cheesy sauce? A sure crowd pleaser on Boxing Day.

Use the head

Don’t forget the fish head! The meat is incredibly tender and flavourful. The charity recommends a cod’s head curry or recreating Fallow’s renowned cod’s head in siracha butter.

By stretching your ingredients further, not only is this a more sustainable way to enjoy seafood, but also cost-effective by repurposing leftovers and cooking creatively.

Boxing Day brunch

Mix leftover kippers or smoked salmon with scrambled eggs for a tasty, zero-waste, Boxing Day brunch.

For best choice, make sure you buy kippers, or herring, from the North Sea and the North Irish Sea.

Zero-waste storage

A top tip from the Marine Conservation Society to avoid waste is freezing fish offcuts to save for future use.

Crisp up the skin

Even leftover fish skin can be turned into a quick savoury snack by crisping it up in an air fryer with a little olive oil and salt.

Anchovies two ways

Leftover anchovies can either be blended with butter to make a delicious anchovy butter or tossed into pasta for a hit of umami flavour.

The charity recommends opting for anchovies caught in the Bay of Biscay for best choice.

Fishcakes

For an easy, zero-waste meal, leftover seafood trimmings can be mixed with mash and fried in breadcrumbs to make fishcakes.

Pickled mussels

Try pickling mussels in 1:1 vinegar and water, with a dash of sugar for a sustainable, zero-waste snack that can be enjoyed well beyond the festive season.

Mussels farmed in the UK are a seafood superhero. Grown using low-impact methods and harvested by hand, they get all the food they need from the sea around them. This makes them one of the most sustainable, ocean-friendly, and cost-effective seafood options.

Players of People’s Postcode Lottery have raised £6.6M towards the Marine Conservation Society’s vital work in making seafood more sustainable.

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “Fish is a festive favourite for many, but making sustainable choices when it comes to how we buy and eat seafood makes all the difference for our ocean. Support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery has helped the Marine Conservation Society further its sustainable seafood work, so that we can all enjoy healthier, better protected seas.”

The Marine Conservation Society encourages you to make sustainable seafood choices a year-round habit, not just for Christmas. To check how sustainable the seafood on your plate is, you can visit the charity’s Good Fish Guide. The Guide helps consumers and businesses identify the most sustainable seafood using a simple traffic light system, based on where and how species are caught or farmed. Green is the best choice, amber means improvements are needed, and red indicates fish to avoid buying.

Zero-waste gift idea

Why not embrace a zero-waste Christmas by gifting a membership to support marine conservation? It’s a meaningful, low-waste gift that helps protect our ocean for generations to come. Memberships start from as little as £5 a month – the price of a sandwich and drink from your local coffee shop.

Find the latest sustainable seafood advice for wild-caught and farmed seafood on the Good Fish Guide, downloadable to your phone from www.mcsuk.org/goodfishguide.

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