The No Fins Technique: An Overview

Unlike other freediving disciplines where divers use fins to propel themselves, the No Fins technique requires freedivers to rely solely on a modified breaststroke to dive and surface. This technique demands powerful arm strokes and a coordinated dolphin kick. It's the closest you can get to becoming one with the water, feeling every movement and current, and propelling forward using just your body's strength.

Perfecting the Technique

1. Arm Movements: Start by extending your arms forward. Then, sweep them outwards and downwards, bringing them to your sides. The motion should be fluid, and the power should come from your chest and back muscles, not just your arms.

2. Leg Movements: Use a dolphin kick. Instead of fluttering your feet as you would in scuba diving, move your legs in a unified, wavelike motion. This involves engaging your core and hips, ensuring that the power doesn't just come from the legs but the entire body.

Improving Your No Fins Dive

1. Strength and Conditioning: Focus on exercises that improve upper body strength and flexibility. This includes push-ups, pull-ups, and swimming drills. For the dolphin kick, core exercises like planks and leg lifts can be beneficial.

2. Practice: As with any technique, the key to improvement is consistent practice. Start in a pool to refine your technique before taking it to open water.

3. Breath-Holding: Enhance your breath-hold ability with training. The longer you can comfortably hold your breath, the deeper and longer your dives can be.

Equalization in No Fins Diving

Equalization remains essential in CNF diving. The Frenzel technique is recommended, as it allows for quick and effective equalization without using too much air. Regular practice, combined with exercises to open up the Eustachian tubes, can improve your equalization ability.

To Mask or Not to Mask?

• Wearing a Mask: Provides better visibility and might feel more comfortable for beginners. However, it requires equalization as you go deeper to prevent mask squeeze.

• No Mask (Using Goggles or Nose Clip): Nose clips allow divers to equalize without pinching their nose, freeing their hands. They also reduce the volume of air space, which means less air is needed for equalization.

Benefits of Nose Clips

1. Hands-Free Equalization: Allows you to focus on your swimming technique without constantly pinching your nose.

2. Reduced Air Space: With no mask, you have less air space to equalize, which can conserve valuable air.

3. Improved Streamlining: Without a mask, your face is more hydrodynamic, potentially increasing your speed and efficiency.

Conclusion

The No Fins technique offers a unique way to connect with the ocean. It strips away the gear and allows divers to be present in the water, relying solely on their body's strength and skill. Like all freediving disciplines, safety should be the top priority. Dive with a buddy, know your limits, and always prioritize training and knowledge.

Happy diving and remember: the ocean isn't just a place to dive; it's a state of mind. Dive in, explore, and let the sea set you free.