Freediving: Do You Need to Be a Strong Swimmer?

You don’t need to be an expert swimmer to become a freediver—this is a sport about relaxation, not speed or endurance. However, you do need basic comfort in the water and the ability to move efficiently.

During freediving courses, students are often allowed to use fins, a wetsuit, and a snorkel for swimming drills (such as a 200-meter swim). This is a huge help for those who aren’t confident swimmers—I know because I was once one of them! Years ago, when I first attempted my freediving certification, I struggled to swim even 100 meters without assistance. But with the rig

ht gear and practice, I not only passed the requirement—I fell in love with the water and eventually became a strong swimmer through freediving itself.

The Key to Freediving? Comfort in the Water

Before starting an open-water freediving course, the most important thing is being at ease in the water (no fear or panic). Here’s what I’ve learned from teaching:

Many beginners struggle with fundamental skills at first—like submerging their face or breathing through a snorkel without instinctively trying to use their nose (a natural reflex when trying something new). This is normal! The body tenses up when adapting to unfamiliar equipment, and old habits (like nasal breathing) kick in.

This is where proper instruction and a supportive environment make all the difference. At our freediving school, we prioritize gradual progression: students start in shallow water (1 meter) to build confidence before moving to deeper practice areas (3 meters). A calm, controlled setting helps override those initial reflexes, allowing students to focus on breath control and movement—the true foundations of freediving.

Key Takeaways:

• Gear helps! Fins, a wetsuit, and a snorkel let you focus on technique, not struggle.

• Comfort > skill—Being relaxed in the water matters more than swimming speed.

• Progress step-by-step—Shallow-water practice builds confidence for deeper dives.

Freediving isn’t about being the strongest swimmer; it’s about working with the water. And often, the sport itself transforms your relationship with it.