Isn't Essentials and Fundies basically(essentially/fundamentally...lol) the same thing, but just different agencies? It's been a while since I've been involved with it (DIRF in 2002 and GUE Tech1 in 2003), so I'm guessing some things have changed in the courses.
E & F are not so different so I've been told, but in Essentials you are introduced to the ideas and learn the skills in a very fun way with lots of feedback, but do not have to master them in class (pratice them afterwards). In Fundies you learn the skills and are graded.
Essentials is a very gentle way to ease on the DIR path - it's a great primer for fundies and/or it's a great course for those who want to learn the propulsion/trim/diving/dive & gas planning/teamwork skills but don't want to fully embrace the system. Many locals take Essentials before Fundies, but it's not necessary.
Fundies in doubles will be a new class & a good challenge ;-)
Great you're getting in shape for it.

QUOTE]Penny and I backed away from our Tech/Cave diving because we let ourselves get out of shape for a couple of years.... so one of the factors last year in making a structured lifestyle change in our diet and exercise was to keep ourselves in better shape for the diving we do... we can no longer "wing it" in our mid-40's and still be "fully capable" on game day with all of the kit we use..... but I've admittedly embraced the exercise and cycling as much as I used to passionately embrace diving...[/
Good for you for embracing a change! Do you plan to return to tech/cave diving?
I've really enjoyed watching your fitness journey, you make me sound lazy

Thanks again!! Kathy
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