The truth about the Open Water course: the good, the hard and the incredible
Did you know that 72% of the planet is water?
Considering that we only have one life we can agree that perhaps we should unlock as much of it as possible.
Having said that, taking into account that 72% is water, the fact of obtaining a degree that allows us to discover what is in it makes us have a lot to gain, and if we also share this feeling with those around us and we can discover it with them, so much the better.
Unlock a super power: Breathe underwater for a long time
If you ask me what is the best thing about having the Open Water course, I could tell you many things: When you travel you will not only want to know what everyone else can see, but also what the sea of each place can offer, and this is something that very few people can say. But without a doubt, what strikes me the most is that you unlock the super power of breathing underwater for a long time, and this is something incredible.
Real expectations and common fears of the Open Water Course
In my beginnings as a diver I will say that I was not attracted to the idea of diving, I thought it was going to be something“too technical” for me, for my insides I said, where are they going with those oxygen tanks and all that heavy equipment? I didn’t think I would be able to carry all that equipment and hold underwater for so long.
Once I made up my mind, I realized that everything worthwhile in life is behind the fear.
In my first contact I found that I have to breathe out more air than I breathe in, because we always have the reflex when we get into the water to hold our breath and here we have to do the opposite, let go so that the next breath in really fills you up, and not breathe in layers. The first rule of diving is “don’t hold your breath”.
Once in the water, the key is to relax and above all trust the process.
Diving opened the doors to a dimension that would bind me for life, I am currently an instructor of diving instructors, and I can see how our students also change their lives, which in turn drives us to continue on this path.
P.S. For those who already have the course: we already know that it is not a cylinder but a bottle, and what it contains is air.
Before the Open Water course: what almost everyone feels (even if they don't say it)
Before starting, most students arrive with enthusiasm, but also with very common doubts:
1️⃣ Fear of not being able to breathe underwater
“What if I get water in my mask?”
“What if I get nervous and don’t know what to do?”
👉 This is fear number one. The unknown breeds insecurity, especially when it comes to breathing in a different way.
2️⃣ Doubts about your physical condition
“Will I be fit enough?”
“I haven’t played sports in years…”
👉 The reality: the Open Water is not an extreme physical test, but many students think it is.
3️⃣ Nervous about theory
“Will it be too complicated?”
“Do I have to memorize a lot of things?”
👉 Many think the course is like a difficult exam, when in fact it is practical, visual and guided.
4️⃣ Fear of losing control
“What if I panic underwater?”
“What if I want to go up?”
👉 This fear often comes from a lack of information. No one wants to feel trapped.
After the Open Water course: what no one expects to feel
1️⃣ Total confidence
After the course, students often say:
“I can’t believe I was scared before.”
👉 They learn to control their breathing, buoyancy and react calmly.
2️⃣ Personal pride
Finishing the Open Water is not just a certification:
👉 It’s a personal victory.
👉 It’s proving to yourself that you can do something you used to respect.
3️⃣ Sensation of freedom
Breathing underwater, moving without weight, observing the seabed…
👉 Many describe it as meditation in motion.