aloha from... well, you get the point.

[shark_whisperer]

Hey guys, ive been checking this site out sporadically for the past couple of months, but decided to take an active role finally. I'm just beginning to spear/freedive, and I'm looking for some constructive safety/technique/training advice in lieu of any freedive classes. (Until time allows for said classes). My goals are pretty moderate for the time being. and for the sake of staying alive. words of wisdom?

 

[Rogert]

hey Shark_whisperer, my words of wisdom would prolly be never let anybody stop u from achieving ur goals in this sport. but as for the freediving and spearfishing part, head over to beginner freediving to learn the basics. enjoy ur stay

 

[sanso]

shark_whisperer, Welcome!
I assume You already found the beginner sections for freediving and fish-poking, which should provide ample supply for training and further reading. Where are You standing right now? Any specific questions?

 

[shark_whisperer]

I understand that there are some pretty heavy physiological concepts to be grasped before fully understanding your limits, but it seems to me that these effects arent as drastic until you begin pushing 30m.
I guess my first question would be (this might be answered in the beginner's guide, but i havent had time to read it in its entirety):
How much can i realistically train and dive independently (with a buddy of course) before i take a class?
How likely is a "pool" blackout if im just spending 1-2 minutes swimming at 10 meters? or am i more likely to just experience serious gut spasms?

 

[shark_whisperer]

Oh, also. If I am just doing light dives, but for maybe 1, 1 1/2 hours, am i at risk of a blackout from CO2 build up? even though they are modest depths and times (e.g. 5 meters, 1 minute)? This is probably my first question in terms of safety since this is characteristic of all my time in the water, at least until i get my boat running.

 

[sanso]

Oh, also. If I am just doing light dives, but for maybe 1, 1 1/2 hours, am i at risk of a blackout from CO2 build up? even though they are modest depths and times (e.g. 5 meters, 1 minute)? This is probably my first question in terms of safety since this is characteristic of all my time in the water, at least until i get my boat running.

Reading Your questions, I think You should definitely do some reading on the basics of physiology. It's not as hard as it may seem and You'll lose the idea that there is a blackout from CO₂ build up.
Just for a start, maybe You should remember: It seems that one really can't tell when a shallow water blackout (SWB) will happen. People with years of experience had it happen to them, so better not rely just on staying below Your limits. These limits are fickle friends.

 

[demasoni]

Shark Whisperer,

Welcome to DB! Do you live in Hawaii? There are quite a few DB'ers from the various islands.

 

[shark_whisperer]

Yeah, i live on Oahu, but im not incredibly social on forums. But im always listening for good advice and tips.

 

[LastOneOut]

This book will answer most of your questions (up to the point of how a mask strap works) It is technical and has some great training routines - nothing replaces an instructor but until you can get to one I recommend reading this (in addition to DB):
Manual of Freediving: Underwater on a Single Breath by Umberto Pelizzari and Stefano Tovaglieri - it helped me.[ame="http://www.amazon.com/Manual-Freediving-Underwater-Single-Breath/dp/1928649270"][/ame]