Is horizontal position really better?

[tursiops]

Yes. It’s called coaching.

If something is worth doing, it has a value. Paying an expert for a few hours can be exceedingly effective.

We are talking about different things. By "specialty" in this thread I think is meant a specific course of instruction, with a certification at the end.
Coaching, seminars, clinics.....these are all ways for an instructor to help someone, but there is no certification attached.
I gave an "intro to deco" seminar recently to some folks who wanted to know what their computer would do if they exceeded NDL, and how they should respond. They each used two computers, one set on Nitrox -- which is what they were diving -- and one set on air. They let the air computer go into deco for a few minutes, and then did what it said to do. They never actually exceeded their NDL for the gas they were breathing.

 

[Lorenzoid]

We are talking about different things. By "specialty" in this thread I think is meant a specific course of instruction, with a certification at the end.

Yes, I presume that's what he meant, but maybe he wasn't asking the right question to find what he's looking for.

 

[The Chairman]

With the exception of a huge ripping current, frog kick is more than adequate

Too many people are intent on fighting Mother Nature. She's just too big and mean.

 

[MichaelMc]

wanted to know what their computer would do if they exceeded NDL, and how they should respond. They each used two computers, one set on Nitrox -- which is what they were diving -- and one set on air.

Ah, nice idea, now that I have two computers. Great way to get in experience in what your comp actually does. And on playing deco. Thanks!

 

[AgentKooper]

But, really, is the horizontal position always the best one?

This seems like a very dubious straw man conversation starter. Has anyone, anywhere, ever said the horizontal position is ALWAYS the best one? Of course it's not -- no technique in any sport or pursuit is always the best for every situation. Is horizontal the best default position for beginners to try to achieve to stop flailing around, improve buoyancy control, and move more efficiently through the water in many/most recreational conditions? Probably. What else would you recommend for that? Are there exceptions? Of course there are. If your buoyancy control and air consumption are good, and you're not flailing or kicking against the bottom, at marine life, or at other divers, be in whatever position you want to be in.

 

[The Chairman]

Has anyone, anywhere, ever said the horizontal position is ALWAYS the best one?

Actually, I've known a couple of divers who do believe this.

 

[Dody]

Actually, I've known a couple of divers who do believe this.

The reason I asked this question is because I have read it over and over in SB. To the point where I was feeling guilty being in an upright position. Once again, I am not talking about swimming here. But about enjoying diving, contemplating, doing things the easy way. I can launch my DSMB in a horizontal position, do my safety stop or clear my mask the same way but what do I get except showing off that I can do it? I’d rather have fun and do things in the position that is the most comfortable and natural for me unless there is a REAL danger doing it this way.

 

[Dody]

And please, don’t tell me that I am gonna die or that you care about me so much that you don’t want to see my name in the AI or IA forum just because I am asking questions or that I don’t always agree with much more experienced divers.

 

[David Novo]

The reason I asked this question is because I have read it over and over in SB. To the point where I was feeling guilty being in an upright position. Once again, I am not talking about swimming here. But about enjoying diving, contemplating, doing things the easy way. I can launch my DSMB in a horizontal position, do my safety stop or clear my mask the same way but what do I get except showing off that I can do it? I’d rather have fun and do things in the position that is the most comfortable and natural for me unless there is a REAL danger doing it this way.

It is not only a safety concern but also not silting, ruining visibility, or damaging something. If you can do those things vertically without any of the drawbacks, I do not see any issue.

Just make sure you are able to do it and not only assume you can.

 

[wetb4igetinthewater]

Diving or dancing? I'd say yes to both. EDIT: both have exceptions.