Essentials of Rec
The Essentials of Recreational Diving course is the point of entry for all certified divers and is the certified divers’ prerequisite for all other recreational UTD classes (except Rec 1). Essentials of Rec gives every diver an opportunity to learn the personal skills needed to participate in a unified team and be in the water as a “thinking diver.”
The first challenge is buoyancy – precise buoyancy which, when combined with a horizontal trim position, is the hallmark of control in the wáter. Students learn to effortlessly hold their position in the water, which leads to the next set of skills aquisition: propulsion, where five different kicks are taught that eliminate silting and increase control, allowing both forward and backward movement. Other skills include proper air sharing procedures, team protocols, gas planning, ascent strategies, and much more.
Essentials of Recreational Diving is normally conducted over a 3-day period combining lectures, practical (in-water) sessions and video debriefings.
The Essentials of Recreational Diving is where students receive the foundation of UTD philosophy, configuration and in-water skills. The course is designed for divers who want to learn about the benefits of UTD and apply it to their diving.
Who is this course designed for?
This course is designed for both newly certified open water divers and also seasoned veteran divers who will find that by incorporating UTD principles into their diving practices, they increase both safety and fun. Photographers and videographers will especially appreciate the detailed training in propulsion & precision buoyancy control that assists in perfecting that special shot! Instructors will appreciate this “fresh look” at diver training and skill development.
This is a great first step towards learning and understanding the Unified Team Diving approach.
Why Should I Take this Course?
Regardless of your experience level, UTD philosophy allows you to grow as a diver. This class serves as an excellent introduction to UTD, and is perfect for someone who wants to start Recreational training in more advanced UTD classes.
- Minimum age of 16.
- Completed UTD registration process.
- All UTD classes are Non Smoking.
- The use of prescription drugs must be authorized prior to the onset of diver training by a physician.
- Participants must: be able to swim a distance of at least 15 meters on a breath hold.
- Must be able to swim at least 275 meters in less than 14 minutes without stopping.
- Maximum depth: 18 metres.
- Standard gas: air (21% O2).
- Zero stage decompressions.
- No overhead environments.
“Through the Essentials of Rec dive course you will learn the personal skills necessary to be part of a unified team.”