OW Weekend Class Complete - Overview

[Kellyccz]

Halemano - sorry - I was just saying I completed the classroom portion and confined water dives in 2 days. I specified in my post that I was doing my open water dives on referral in Puerto Vallarta - but I have no classroom stuff left - just skills in open water. I wasn't trying to mid-state anything - just share my experience.

 

[windapp]

If you are concerned about mask clearing, you can do it in a pool without a regulator. Just take a big breath of air, go under the water and clear like you would have with a regulator in your mouth. The issues with the water going up your nose will be cured if you do a little bit of free-diving in the swimming pool without a mask. Use a pair of goggles instead. Just don't go too deep because you will get a painful squeeze.

 

[Kellyccz]

Thanks windapp. Unfortunately, going under water in a pool isn't enough for me. I love the water and am totally comfortable in it. I swim a lot. I have dove into pools, etc. with no problems. It was only when I took the mask off while breathing with the regulator. I suspect my brain told my nose to breathe in. But, that's why I felt more comfortable talking to my instructor and scheduling some one-on-one time with her the week before my trip so I can do the tough stuff over and over to a point where I feel comfortable with it and not so panicky. We are going to buy a regulator for me too so that I can be assured I have one that allows me to breathe easy - otherwise, that is sure to cause panic for me if I have any issues feeling like I cannot draw a good breath.

 

[LivBlue]

Totally understand I just did my OW classes. Personally have a dislike for the mask off and clear myself. It tickles my nose and it flips my brain out some. I have no desire to surface but it makes me breathe hard. Totally did help to just pinch my nose for 2 breaths then I could relax and put it on. It's something I will be working on in the pool as we prepare for out trip in June.