5 Ways to Fail Your PADI Open Water Course

Here are 5 ways you may fail your first dive course, the PADI Open water course! This video is just my thoughts as a scuba diving instructor and do not reflect any PADI dive shop or other instructors. These are just a few tips to keep in mind when you are preparing and things you should avoid doing during your PADI Open Water Course.
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[@OceanPancake]

Tell me about your open water diving course!!! These are just my personal thoughts of 5 ways you could fail the course. I would not stress though, if you want to dive! You can do it!!

[@mynameisneb]

Thanks for this video! I hope to go get certified soon, finally! Subscribed and I hit that bell :-)

[@davidrosenberg881]

E

[@willmalliotis1904]

are you still active on youtube? we all love your videos!

[@OceanPancake]

@@willmalliotis1904 thank you so much. Yes im planning to come back, but just feels like I havent posted so long thst I cant just come back with any old video

[@ddaru1]

I almost gave up when I was doing my open water course, on the confined water session to be exact, cuz it was so much hard work in one go. My only motivation was that I'd already paid the course and don't wanna go back empty handed without a certification, so I stayed strong... And it turned out I got addicted and now I'm a Rescue Diver!

[@OceanPancake]

Sometimes finances are a good motivator. I remember being the youngest in my class and pushing through my fear to best expectations! Haha

[@berendbmx]

What u talking bout. OWD is literally the easiest shit in life, even a kid can do it

[@kasken719]

@@berendbmx Not if you have a medical issue that makes it difficult. Not if you have a bad instructor. Especially if you're not a confident person. Not everyone is bred to be a race horse sea biscuit. Go grab some O2 and chill out lol

[@setprima]

@@berendbmx hahha

[@neutrosis]

? Did you try the navy seal hellweek?

[@bogdanmargarit9619]

"The underwater world is so breathtaking" - not the best choice of words when encouraging students :))

[@despoil]

😂

[@mystkittsdivebuddy]

As an Instructor, it really amazes me when students who can't swim want to Scuba Dive, in my experience they don't tell me they can't swim until they fail the swim test, by that time they already have spent treasure and time on the course

[@chrisblaase2700]

I have been a PADI Open Water Diver for 32 years. Life is so much better underwater! Dive safe Katt!

[@OceanPancake]

You too! Glad you stopped by to check out the video :)

[@j.playstation9163]

I was a little scared before I started my dive course, but it went so well. I enjoyed every moment of it and the last dive to show the dive master that I can dive was amazing. I must say that I did a lot of snorkeling and lifeguard swimming

[@mushroom4079]

Hi! I’m one of the youngest scuba divers in the community and my final exam for jr open water is in a few days. Thank you so much for this video! Thank you for the help with calming my nerves and the advice! Update: I’m now fully certified!

[@donmunro144]

Don't get nervous. My 13 yr old son just got his jr certification. He was the only young person in his class,but he did better than some of the adults.

[@mushroom4079]

@@donmunro144 oh congrats to him!

[@donmunro144]

Awesome congratulations 👏

[@mushroom4079]

@@donmunro144 thank you so much!

[@goinbrokebassfishing-tv9294]

Awesome I live in Apollo beach Florida and I’m about to start my open water course wish me luck!

[@crackcocanius584]

I’m gonna be doing my scuba diving lesson today, wish me luck

[@jesspeoples3292]

Diving is a great experience and now I have my padi advance open water which got last year. You out get of it what you put into.

[@OceanPancake]

That's very true!

[@zacharytaylor190]

Who in their right mind would turn off someone else's air? Thats effectively attempted murder. Isn't equivalent to intentionally suffocating someone?

[@OceanPancake]

If you turn off someones air there are still a couple of breaths and people are trained to turn it back on, however yes, it's not funny at all

[@zacharytaylor190]

@@OceanPancake I suppose. I'm doing the pre-course work for my padi open water and I've been binging as many scuba videos as I can. Thank you for your great vids!

[@michaelmccoy6852]

Believe it or not, that is actually a drill divers do. But as horse play that would be terrible. I agree with her, kick them out now.

[@Narusasu98]

Sadly there are morons everywhere, even underwater.

[@IdRatherBeDiving-vr5gk]

There is no way to "fail" a PADI OW course; it is not like a typical academic course where you are issued a grade at the end. PADI courses are performance based, not based on time. They are designed so that students much achieve the designated skills -- workbook/classroom, confined water (usually pool) skills, and open water dives. There is no "pass/fail". When you master each set of skills, you progress to the next set. When you have completed all the skills and requirements of the course, you are certified. Some people take longer to master the skills, some people do it quicker. But there is no time limit. So there is no "failing". If any instructor tell you that you can "fail" a PADI course, find a different instructor that is interested in helping you succeed. I have always told my students that we would spend as much time in the pool as necessary for them to master the skills they needed for their diving. I told them I would never complain about having to spend extra time in the pool with them, that hanging out in the pool in scuba gear is a fun time for me... and that I would do it until they were so bored of pool skills they would beg me to take them to the ocean. Some students would take a bit longer to master their skills, but they would always eventually get there. I've never had a student "fail" a course, I work with them as long as necessary. And I've also never had a student have an accident in their OW dives. (Incidentally, my statement that there is no "fail" of a PADI course is not my opinion; this is explained to every PADI instructor during their training.)

[@OceanPancake]

Definitely well put! I just know a lot of people are worried about failing so wanted to let them know the only way they will.. is if they give up and do not continue on their quest to be an underwater explorer.

[@liubovclaunch6036]

I did not fell my OWC, but I do have really bed ear problems (always did) and between my course I did catch ear infection (likely I had medicine with me and enough time for whole course of medicine) and still managed to finish my OWC!!!!! I just learned how to deal with my problem. Now I have advanced and deep water certifications 🍷💃👍

[@Adieu91]

Great vid Katt. I've had an experience that I have learned from and one tip I have is make sure your gear fits and functions (this is more common sense than anything). I've had a problem with a hood in the past (that felt fine) that stopped my ears equalising together and throwing my vision out 90 degrees whilst ascending from 25m through 18m. Stupidly(?) repeated the dive later in the day with no hood and no problems at all. Absolutely the scariest experience being vertical in the water but seeing things like your head is tilted sideways.

[@OceanPancake]

That is why I will always recommend to buy high quality mask as that makes the difference between a great and not so great dive. Thanks for pointing it out!

[@widdlewaddle1790]

I just finished my Junior open water course just waiting for my certification card to show up in the mail:D

[@ianbrown5320]

Good luck with your diving in the future

[@novatlizrz4931]

Yes pls. Do share the tricks you used to equalise during descent on your next video

[@OceanPancake]

Will do!!

[@FishHatcheryGuy]

I actually failed my open water course because I missed one too many questions on the written test related to dive tables. It was at a university so I couldn’t retake it. However, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. In my field it’s definitely a good skill. I’m also applying for a job that requires it because it involves doing dive shows. Whether I get the position or not I’m signed up for another PADI open water course with classroom and pool next weekend, and open water the following.

[@lauren8231]

How’s it going!?

[@FishHatcheryGuy]

@@lauren8231 well, I super panicked on the Cesa in OW I did it again with the instructor and was fine. He wants to make sure it isn’t a fluke so he didn’t sign off on that yet. He told me to contact him in a few weeks to finish those last couple skills on ow and dives.

[@hicrhodushicsalta4382]

you just have to know where to take them to pass xD

[@jensvolckaert4729]

Me and my wife just got open water certified. She really struggled with her ears and went to see a doctor / specialist... turns out her nosebone is so crooked it pushes one of the eustachian tubes witch combined with an "chronical allergic nose" made clearing almost impossible. She comforted us and gave the okey to go on diving... a anti allergy spray solved most of it now... but at 4 -5 meters she still struggles sometimes taking some time to go down. Peeps when in doubt please visit a doctor with dive knowlege... it will make you alot more comfortable and safer in the water! Thx btw for the diving vids. Learned alot already from them even before i hit the water... Grtz

[@OceanPancake]

I'm glad that you have learned some things from these videos. Yes it's unfortunate when people have physical issues stopping them from diving.

[@grahamargent8057]

You have a great presentational style which is clear and informative, it clearly shows that your profession is teaching an activity that you love so much.

[@andreaskollmuss]

I’m currently in training. Wow thank you for this video! I needed to hear this. It will help me a lot to go all the way. 🦈 🐠 🐢 🐋 🐬

[@OceanPancake]

Good luck!! I hope that you do really well and you're enjoying it

[@andreaskollmuss]

@@OceanPancake Thank you.

[@pricediver]

Love your video but love your Regulator even more! Very cool s620ti !

[@saliology]

Wow, you have a podcast now!....I'll definitely will go and check it out.

[@OceanPancake]

Yeah it's been going for a while now :)

[@chrisphilhower6029]

Can I start a Poll? How many people would like to have Katt as an Instructor?

[@OceanPancake]

Awh thank you!

[@chrisphilhower6029]

@@OceanPancake Your Welcome!!

[@GlamazonBarbie]

As always, love your video!!!. I just want to say, as one dive pro to another, thanks for the info about Leaf. I actively try to reduce the amount of plastic in my life and this Leaf Shaver meets that goal and looks beautiful. Ordering it now. Keep up the great videos!

[@OceanPancake]

Oh I am so glad. I've used them for a year and love it. I've made no waste considering and still get to shave :)

[@AudelinaAdela]

what a lovely T- shirt, diving kangaroo with fins and the tank...very funny!

[@OceanPancake]

I wonder who got it for me ;) haha

[@paulmoriarty1080]

I’ve got my pool and classes done and I got the open water dives in a month. I worry that I might rely on the bcd to much to ascend and descend and equalization any tips?

[@keeponwishin]

I’ve had issues equalizing my ears due to a chronic sinus issue, but as bad as it sounds, I take more drugs on dive trips than I do at any other time. Decongestants, antihistamines, antiemetics, and ear drops, along with a couple prescription meds. The added medication allows for a much more enjoyable time though.

[@dustintaylor2141]

you look and sound like Blake Lively. I loved your video i am starting my classes today. your confidence in people is amazing.

[@undisclosedperson3871]

Great vid! I had an abysmal Discover Dive in Sri Lanka (mild panic attack) then still decided to get OWD certified. First attempt (in Brisbane, Aus) I had what I thought was a heart attack in the pool (just a pulled muscle) so had to reschedule to somewhere else. First open water dive I got the hiccups and started throwing up and had to reschedule again. While I didn't technically fail anything, I was not meant to be a scuba diver! But now at 100 dives and gong into Tec!

[@OceanPancake]

I'm so glad the bad experiences did not stop you from continuing the diving adventure. It has so much to do with your instructor and your mental mind set.

[@undisclosedperson3871]

@@OceanPancakeIt's been great. Wasn't until my advanced in Moheli I really knew I loved it. Have got my mum certified now and she's still building confidence so I'm hoping to take her there for her advanced next year!

[@annevetter6864]

Josh: are you still in Bris? I’m in Redcliffe and interested in taking up lessons. But I’m terrified of sharks

[@TheKaiAkuma]

I love your videos! So inspiring! I was wondering if you have any advice on eco surf suits or wetsuits? Or if you could do a video about eco friendly ones you know of/how to buy the right suit and care for your suit? Love your videos, they inspire me to keep going and manifest my dreams of becoming a diver for ocean conservation!

[@OceanPancake]

I am currently in the process of trying to find eco friendly wetsuits! So stay tuned!

[@TheKaiAkuma]

Vegan Diver Katt thank you so so so much!!!

[@thomasrathmann8886]

Good advices, and yes I would like to receive more tips for equalizing or fighting panic-attacks when f.e. breathing some water through the nose. It happened to me when lifting the mask in 15m depth during the OWD and it wasn't funny. Another time, in 30m depth, not breathing enough, developing a CO2-excess, and then wasn't quite able to breath quickly enough, got very near to panic and felt so much need to quickly ascent to the surface ! Fortunately I didn't. BTW, nice balance between being serious with teaching, without forgetting how to combine it with fun :-)

[@OceanPancake]

I'm glad you like my teaching style ;) yes. I'll definitely make an equalization video to help everyone out :)

[@michaelmccoy6852]

@@OceanPancake I agree. The diving community as a whole needs more information about clearing when their is a struggle. I frequently emphasize ear care and cleaning, along with descending vertically while clearing on every exhale on a slow descent. Those three things typically win the day for a person who struggles. For me at least.

[@jonathanchadwickartsandadv712]

Yes a video about equalizing your ears!... I have issues with that... I can equalize, ears pop easy... then I start feeling slight pain the deeper I go.. like pass 50ft almost like a little needle poking my ear drum... wondering what could cause that? My ears not equalizing all the pressure? But after the dive at the surface, my ears feel fine 🤷‍♂️

[@GlamazonBarbie]

Have you tried equalizing using different methods? For me the valsalva maneuver works great at shallow depths, but beyond 90 feet I can only equalize with a hard swallow.

[@OceanPancake]

You should be equalizing your entire descent. Every couple of feet pinch your nose and gentle exhale. That way the pressure cannot build up to the point of pain. Keep a lookout for the new video!

[@alle_namen_schon_vergeben708]

Maybe "breathtaking" may be the wrong word to comfort a panic Diver :D

[@OceanPancake]

Woops haha

[@michaelzschoche2746]

Haha that was funny 😂

[@Lionheart2323]

The equalizing problems is the only reason i have had so far to not pass students. But each time its happened it was simply because they were sick or had some sort of cold. They eventually came back later on and were able to do it without the same problems 🙂. So the not passing thing was only temporary thankfully.

[@OceanPancake]

Have you had many students who could not equalise? I'm so lucky it's just been two :)

[@Lionheart2323]

@@OceanPancake erm probably happened so far 10 times or so. But ya once they got cleared and came back to try again they were able to do it

[@benheckendorn2696]

Well I love your shirt, it looks cute.

[@sir.benzerlot4571]

I’ve got mine this Friday and I’m only 16 and don’t know anyone who’s in my class so I’m nervous as. What if there’s an uneven amount of people in the class do you do a three way buddies?

[@Travelmemories8]

I did basic try diving for 5times now im planning to get open water certificate soon

[@princetandukar9290]

Great video! I wanted to get a padi license but due to the current situation haven’t been able to:/ hopefully can get one soon!

[@OceanPancake]

Hopefully so! It's a difficult time right now for that

[@princetandukar9290]

Vegan Diver Katt haha thank you:) your videos have inspired me to get a license !

[@24zomaar]

I failed my first OWD because the current was strong and I couldn't even swim properly with my heavy fins and my 6mm wet suit, shoes, gloves 8kg extra weights. I had a mild panic attack and had to quit. I am still working on getting my OWD but I secretly really don't want to do this in the cold water (plus I don't plan on diving in cold water ever). Where are you operating? Maybe I should travel to you and get my OWD with you :) I pass my theory and all of the exercises in the pool, I just need my 4 open water dives.

[@OceanPancake]

Diving in cold water is definitely a factor of people struggling to do their course. There is so much more equipment to consider and weight that can contribute to anxiety

[@martha_ortiz]

My first dive for the open water at a lake scared me. I personally watched someone panic on my left when we did the half-mask flood skill. He said that just couldn't connect mind-to-body and when he flooded his mask he breathed the water through the nose and then continued to full panic and made a run to the surface- our scuba instructor grabbed his back of the tank and helped him. .... I was like shiiiiettttt.

[@nikosstournaras4271]

Are you familiar enough with casual swimming? I mean, have you tried that playground habit of duck diving and swimming horizontally, just half meter under the surface without any gear, during casual swimming, without holding your nose closed? I believe, if you can do this, you will feel no anxiety at all with water in your mask during your dive either.

[@silverfang5776]

How about the fun dive program without certification on padi, is that only a few meters or can you tell me the detail of that programme?

[@jaycool3199]

So if I take the PADI to get my diving certificate and I’m 12 how deep would I be able to go if I get my certificate?

[@Green_Brin17]

Would you recommend getting certified somewhere where your open water dives are in the ocean vs in a lake? I live in Pennsylvania and up here the dives would be in a lake, but I am considering going to the Florida Keys to get certified because the open water dives would be in the ocean and I would be diving in the ocean once certified not in lakes. What do you think?

[@OceanPancake]

It depends where you are planning to dive. Lakes and oceans have very different conditions. Water salinity. Water movement , tides etc contribute to difficulties of a dive. So technically when you're certified in a lake as open water, you re only qualified to dive in those conditions. Dive shops that properly check your log book and experience should encourage additional training or at least close supervision when heading to the ocean.

[@domdimensions9219]

Really entertaining video 😊. I plan to take my course this winter in mexico. Seems not super difficult, and since I'm really interested in it, I will soak up the information easily. The most ridiculously obvious thing on this list is the can't swim. The fact that a lot of people actually can't swim seems crazy to me, and irresponsible on the parts of the parents for not teaching them. Its a basic human survival skill and everybody should know it. If people can't swim I don't know how they might think it's a good idea to learn to dive. One step at a time, no?

[@becky2235]

Great video thanks for posting! I'm a total newbie,the most I've done is snorkeling and free diving. Are you based in the U.K? I only ask to know if these are applicable to the U.K. (although the ones like don't act like a idiot I'm not a kill joy, just time and place comes to mind! and don't go down if you have medical issues are common sense I'd have thought.) But I'd love to pass my open water diving course,my friend did it just before lockdown and he couldn't recommend me doing it highly enough. Even while free diving I found being underwater so peaceful! Do you have to buy your own kit first? I have a 6mm wetsuit,fins and mask with snorkel but as for the scuba side of things I wouldn't know what is need first! Also not that well off financial due to being laid off due to corona Thank you for the video and your time

[@christopherjohnson7664]

I've already given up because of the e-learning Is it so confusing with the dive tables and everything

[@sussannerandall85]

I am reading my manual and getting so freaking nervous .....my course is this weekend

[@Daveador876]

Where were you diving in Cambodi?, I'm moving out there next to do my dive master.

[@Mitzipie29]

I ran into problems with filling my mask up, at my open water certification, my instructor , he got me over it, by having an extra pool day, but because it took so long to get past the mask filling problem, I got certified as a PADI Scuba Diver, he told me get some more dives under my belt and try the open water certification again.

[@OceanPancake]

Sometimes it takes people longer to get past the mask clearing part. Its a tough part!

[@Mitzipie29]

That’s what he told me. I just couldn’t get over the water going over my nose... but he got me passed it , and I’m a PADI scuba diver now

[@Mitzipie29]

I was never going to give up though, I’ve always wanted to be a diver. I’ve dreamed of diving at tiger beach with tiger sharks.. that dream also helped me get pass the nose thing

[@OceanPancake]

@@Mitzipie29 Dont give up! I am still uncomfortable taking my mask off years later. Its perfectly normal and might take some time, but you can do it!

[@Mitzipie29]

Hi, it’s me again, I just wanted to add, I just upgraded my scuba diver certification to Padi open water diver, and looking into going Padi advanced open water diver.

[@qonitabadegestm9989]

mY " instructor " SABOTAGE me he was very unprofessional and FLIRTY, then isolated me from The group and knocked mY mask off multiple times til I pointed upwards then he acted like it was mY fault! traumatic experience 😅

[@evolvedmonkey9978]

Dear Ocean, i'm on a predictament here with my Padi open water diving, and pardon my english please, I did all my pool sessions, i did even 4 sessions at sea, my instructor was quite atentive to my limitations, but i still can't do 2 exercises 1 - take the mask out completely and put it on my face 2 - take my bcd out and and put it again, on the first one i'm trying alone with apnea at a low depth to control any panic of taking my mask out, and i'm practising at sea, but the other one of the bcd i just don't have the ability to do that... and furthermore i don't want to dive at 60 feet, cause i don't feel confortable neither i want to dive at that depth in any way shape or form, i want to be on a "controlled" depth.. at least for me of no more than 7 meters, so, 35 feet max, do you think, in your professional opinion, that by these limitations i shouldn't be a padi certified open diver? Thank you

[@makarenaponce4421]

I used to suffer asthma few years ago and I went to the doctor and he said that I am be able to do scuba diving, the thing is he didn't make me any kind of exams about it so I feel I little nervous to take my open water course, what do you recommend?

[@OceanPancake]

Definitely find yourself a dive doctor. Some doctors specialize in dive medicals, so they have the best idea for you and your situation

[@Zvona555]

Equalizing can be a problem. It took me years to find proper technique to equalize my ears but I'm still THAT diver who hovers above the group for a minute or two, constantly showing equalization problem sign followed by ok 😄. I never abandoned a dive for equalization problem because I know my ears will start to cooperate, but they need some extra time. After that, I can go down as fast and as deep as I want.

[@earlgrey2130]

When you have a few hundred dives under your belt you realize that certifications mean nothing. I've been with divers who had only 35 dives, but were pretty solid and a few over 500 logged dives who were dogshit. Being good in the water is a question of attitude. You either invest energy into improving your skills or you don't. Failure is good. It means you have an instructor who cares about you not being good enough. Embrace it as a chance to grow and improve.

[@davidshoyt1979]

I agree. I see dive masters with next to no real life experience.

[@miklusenapati8066]

Katt...good video..

[@OceanPancake]

Thank you!

[@Idiots21332]

I was looking forward to scuba diving but I have asthma so I can’t😢😢

[@thrudanether]

Hi I need help. I am a kid I wanna dive but I have asthma. It's been under control for months I havent had an asthma attack in months. Will I be able to dive?

[@ryankiemele7546]

I have asthma and dive. Talk to your Dr. If you’ve had yours under control without the need for an inhaler for a period of time you should be good.

[@thrudanether]

@@ryankiemele7546 I had a asthma attack today first time in a year

[@chrisphilhower6029]

Hey Katt. Concerning the Asthma Condition you referred to. Back in 06 I was diagnosed with (Cant remember the name) a condition like Asthma. When the Ozone Levels are high, I have trouble breathing. Smoke tends to cause problems as well. I was given a prescription for an inhaler, Albuterol and Singulair. Would that prevent me?

[@Patrick-rz4jy]

Hey Chris, only a doctor can answer you that question. I have asthma and did my OWD course last November after I got checked by a dive-doctor, so that doesn`t have to be a problem :)

[@chrisphilhower6029]

@@Patrick-rz4jy Thanks. Now I just need to find a Permanent FT position with Health Insurance. NJ has been on Extended Emergency Orders since March. I am working a "Seasonal" job. Otherwise I would still be waiting for Unemployment.

[@OceanPancake]

Please find a dive doctor, they are familiar with diving and will be able to give you accurate information!

[@ElevateSon]

I failed my advanced on the navigation test...

[@youtubespy9473]

That’s so sad, doing something you love all your life and having to give it up.

[@FeralFox1]

Im 14 and going to get scuba certified in florida and i have aesthma but i have never had a asthma attack just general coughing do to allergies whats your opinion on that?

[@OceanPancake]

Please make sure to check with your doctor before attempting diving. Diving and breathing air under pressure can cause serious lung issues, so make sure you are cleared by a medical professional.

[@FeralFox1]

@@OceanPancake ok cool ty

[@nolzy3906]

I don’t have asthma very bad but could it still affect me

[@OceanPancake]

Yes, you definitely need a doctors certificate.

[@BlackPawGaming]

I found tons of ppl can't swim but pass diving license though.

[@rreagan007]

I've been taking the open water diver course and I think I'm probably going to have to quit. I really tried my best. I studied the materials and got perfect scores on all the quizzes and test. I have watched dozens of hours of videos on KZbin to try to figure out different techniques for improving my weaknesses. But from the first time I stuck my head underwater and took a breath out of the regulator it felt so unnatural to me. I was very anxious the entire time under water and threw up in the pool parking lot after the first pool day. About 50% of the time when doing a mask clearing I panic and surface because water going up my nose gives me the sensation of drowning and it is overwhelming. I don't swim well with fins, am bad at maintaining proper trim, and am not good at buoyancy control. I'm basically on the verge of being out of control half the time underwater. Yesterday was the first open water dive, and when we went down about 20 feet I was much slower at being able to equalize my ears and descend than everyone else in the group. They had to wait for me for a couple of minutes as I slowly worked my way down the rope, but I finally got down there. But around 20 feet I lost some buoyancy and descended slightly, the pressure built up in my ears, I was unable to equalize it fast enough. My left eardrum ruptured, and we had to end the dive early without a safety stop because of my issue. I didn't fully realize how bad it was and actually went back into the water to attempt the second open water dive with the group after about an hour on the surface. But as soon as my head went underwater there was just a lot of pain in my ruptured ear and I was unable to continue. The doctor says I can't swim or dive again for at least several weeks until the eardrum heals and the infection clears. I really don't want to quit. I really wanted to be able to do this, but it is way outside of my comfort zone. I think scuba diving is just beyond my psychological and physiological limitations and that is very disappointing to me, but I think I just have to accept that. Recreational scuba diving is supposed to be fun and enjoyable, and so far absolutely nothing about it has been fun or enjoyable for me. It's basically been equivalent to waterboarding torture for me.

[@nikosstournaras4271]

I am not a scuba diver, therefore I cannot comment about adjusting buoyancy but all the rest you describe sound familiar from the time I was starting free diving. Breathing with your head in the water, even when snorkeling can feel unnatural at first but soon it goes away. The same is the situation with the water in the mask. I suggest get yourself familiar with those doing snorkeling in very shallow waters to get used to that. About pressure equalization, make sure you keep yourself very well hydrated before the dive. If not, mucus becomes more dense and equalizing is more difficult. Also, do not delay your equalization. Rupturing your eardrum, even feeling pain is a definite indication that you let pressure build up too much. Do so every two meter because the more it builds up the harder it becomes. You must never reach the point of feeling pain and I am surprised that your instructor or master diver let you try a second dive with a ruptured eardrum. That is a basic rule in diving. The cold water enters your inner ear causing severe pain and loss of orientation... From what you say you feel anxiety and that does not help the process either. Being somewhat afraid in the beginning is not bad and as I said before, the problems you describe are quite common if not very common. For the story, I overtook all those problems and I made to feel comfortable sinking down to 35 meters. I advice you not to quit if you want to continue but don't push yourself too hard. Follow your own pace. After all it is supposed to be recreation. If you see you have a really serious problem with equalization maybe you should ask a doctor's advice if, for example, you feel your nose blocked quite often without having got a cold.

[@SnackPack913]

I just did my confined water dives this past weekend. Surprisingly when I partially flooded my mask I got the sensation of drowning when water hit my nose and it scared me but I was able to clear it after accidentally exhaling through my reg instead of my nose (I knew this was a common problem and I still did it for some reason!). But surprisingly, when taking the mask completely off I felt much more comfortable breathing through the reg with my nose in contact with water. Even the underwater swim with no mask on felt much better than the partial flood. Anyways after I got around that hurdle then the flooded mask wasn’t that bad anymore

[@bob1505]

Hey Matt, you sure do have a lotta problems! Diving is a foreign environment most especially for any one that isn't very comfortable in the water. If I were your instructor I'd place you in the shallow end of the pool without a mask with your head vertical, straight up and down. I'd be surprised if you didn't get down right bored after a while. But you don't even need the scuba! If you have access to any pool, even a deep (unheated) hot tub would do, sit there with the water lapping the top of your head breathing out of your snorkel without a mask. Boring is good, it means your not scared. Soon you'd be comfortable. If you can't manage that skill in a half hour or so sitting in the shallow I'd tend to agree diving might not be for you. After you're comfortable breathing through the regulator without a mask, then I'd try clearing a mask. Diving isn't a race. Only you have to deal with your physiology. Once you get behind on equalization it will be almost impossible to do so due to trap door effect. You must ascend until the pain dissipates then slowly try again to equalize while you descend. Don't try to dive with a heavy cold or bad congestion. Try decongestants but we wary of them wearing off while at depth as it may make it difficult to equalize on ascent. Practice the valsalva maneuver sitting at home. You should hear movement in your ear drums while wiggling / jutting your jaw and or holding your nose while gently attempting to exhale. If you can't do it at home you won't be able to do it in deep water. And yes, wait until your "quack" gives you the all clear on those eardrums. There is always loss of buoyancy on descent. Your buoyancy compensator and wet suit will both be squeezed (loose buoyancy) due to Boyles' Law. Remember Mr. Boyle? You might be able to slow or stop descent by a fin kick or two or grabbing on to the descent rope. All these things you mention are acquired skills. They don't come naturally. With practice they become second nature. With exposure, being underwater becomes familiar if not comfortable environment. Good luck Matt.

[@kaitlynengelland2723]

Equalize alot. Do it before the dive so you get more air there. And just keep doing it. If u wait so long to equalize it will get harder. I think with you you are just anxious. If I were you I'd start in a swimming pool before you go into the ocean. Also there are classes that take 5 to 6 weeks that might help you too instead of 3 day program

[@evolvedmonkey9978]

Matt, if only many people had the courage to admit their downfalls as you do, many accidents and deaths could be avoided, i feel many limitations as you did, there's only one thing that can help, i guess, practise, if you overcome that same abnoxious and unconfortable anxiety that some exercises are plain torture, i think you, as myself can dive as any other person, we just need more time and more sessions to overcome it, if you can admit and live with your limitations is a step forward to conquer the fear and the panic, don't give up, sometimes we are to exigent and selfdefeating to ourselves, and it is not that hard after all.

[@robharris5245]

I managed eventually to get certified as a PADI Open Water Diver. This was after a lot of anguish and stress due to issues with my instructor. As I say I did get certified, did the four Open Water dives and that was it . I have not dived since. Just didn't get hooked at all. I did the training for the wrong reason. My wife who is a PADI rescue diver suggested I should, she even paid for it so I thought I should finish the course. That was in 2011. She hasn't dived since either. It all seems like too much hassle, driving 100 odd mile to the coast only to find the weather is too bad or going to an inland site and finding there is nowhere to park.

[@BlueHorizonDiving]

Bring BSAC or SSI materials to a PADI class.

[@OceanPancake]

hahaha

[@PPK-jj7zw]

Hi

[@killgreen420]

Who takes or wants to take a dive class that can’t swim

[@benheckendorn2696]

I guess to give up is even more awful reason to fail then not to listen, don't get me wrong, it's important to listen, but if you gove up just because it's a little bit to difficult etc. it's just losing a great chance. I'm not a dive instructor, but I believe you can pass, even if not everything perfect, because you can keep learning. So yes I believe you just beginn to learning if you passed the open water. Just similar to the diving licence. What do you think about?

[@nathenvanconant6844]

I want to learn how to scuba-dive but I’m only 11 and I don’t think that I will be able to

[@OceanPancake]

You will be able to when you're 12!

[@Microblitz]

My daughter and I have just been kicked off a PADI course by a ln instructed who boasted that he could tell a diver and we would never pass our PADI course. He took us to tidal waters in the red sea surrounded by normal swimmers for our first time in scuba with low visibility showed us once what to do then expected us to master it with no further instruction other than the first. I could not master removing and replacing the 10 weights which I could bearly lift on land. It was not the 3 meter fresh water 100% visibility swimming pool that I had seen in the PADI commercials on youtube. It was fighting the tide going out in visibility of around 3 meters trying to avoid hitting swimmers and being instructed at the surface in chop and cross wind.

[@Microblitz]

He stopped the course because my daughter didn't like filling her mask with the salt water. He stopped the course because I couldn't master replacing the 10 bouyancy weights after being shown once. I dropped one off the belt by accident and he seemed angry about this. The whole experience has put me off doing scuba diving ever but I'm a 59 year old man. But I wanted my daughter to have a certification to use for the rest of her life and it now seems we have invested a not small amount and have nothing to show for it.

[@Microblitz]

We now do not have enough time and money to complete the course while we are in Hurghada. Quite honestly, the whole experience feels like a rip off.

[@BoycottPadi]

I passed my Padi classes, but after I decided to complain to Padi Quality Assurance, they decided not to issue me my cards! So one big reason if you complain, Padi may retaliate!

[@earlgrey2130]

They surely had their reasons (which you had to provide). Figure out why you didn't get certified, learn and improve, get it in your second attempt. And chose another provider if you weren't happy with padi

[@sudarsha1234]

Let's say Point one, not necessary and can do leisurely after getting a license.

[@justsomeguy2943]

Go deep, stay long, come up fast, run to the bar, smoke a pack of cigarettes, drink a liter of tequila, stay up all night and do it again. ;)

[@TheSteelheadStation]

Taking my certification dives in two weeks done with the pool dives today...a little nervous

[@sussannerandall85]

I have my classroom and pool training this weekend any advice

[@TheSteelheadStation]

@@sussannerandall85 just relax...once you sorta forget you're underwater it's awesome and so much easier....it just becomes natural. The pool was easy I'm just nervous about the quarry certification dive I have left....the tests are easy if you read the manual

[@meganboudreau1685]

I can equalize ear pressure on land😂

[@lcaceci43]

I just turned 80 years old! I was certified back in 1980. I do snorkeling in a pool. However, my BC is not like the ones of today. I have to inflate it by going from my regulator, to the stem on the BC. Also, diving up in the NY area stinks! Visibility is poor and who wants to dive in Long Island Sound? Diving is dangerous at any age, but especially mine. Despite the fact that I am in good health, do not look my age, can carry a tank, have the stamina to descend, I will not descend below 20 feet. I took lessons from Fran Garr, and she was remarkable. Good luck with diving, but it's a dangerous sport and one that I am not inclined to pursue at any age!

[@dreamchaserJ]

Not the best swimmer but I can't tread water :(

[@OceanPancake]

Well luckily it is something you can learn!!

[@darylmooyoung6414]

Awww man I have asthma 😫

[@ryankiemele7546]

I have asthma and I dive. Don’t let the opinion of someone else keep you from trying. Unless it’s your Dr. My Dr had no problem clearing me or my daughter.

[@darylmooyoung6414]

@@ryankiemele7546 thanks bro, I might give it a shot after asking my family doctor 💯💯💯👍👍👍

[@fixiehartmann4176]

I always accidentally destroy corals haha but I’ve not failed the exam so it’s fine I guess

[@yazenalmaymoni9274]

How will trainees succeed in scuba diving if your buoyancy is so shit

[@aleksandarpantic8450]

turning of someones air underwater/ who tf does that

[@OceanPancake]

You'd be surprised what I've seen :)

[@Daveador876]

If someone turned my gass off you wouldn't have to fail them

[@alexandruelgeo]

If all the medical stuff goes well, I will be taking the open water course. About the instructions part...... are there really that dumb people to turn off their buddies air valves? Like wow..... not even a joke.

[@kurtsteiner8384]

Swimming does not come into diving the idea is to sink not swimm.

[@jaxsongawesome2947]

Thanks! Now I an leave in peace

[@pablogarciaaparicio6263]

Hola. Princess. Hermosa

[@user-dl7oq2kg7z]

HI CAN TALK YOU

[@OceanPancake]

Whatsup?

[@user-dl7oq2kg7z]

@@OceanPancake yes send number

[@syafiqfitri3065]

Honestly I cannot swim but i pass my Course ..im feel so lucky

[@angelestrada7592]

And that’s how you die when faced with nature.

[@happinin]

Passed the theory test. gotta do the 3 day open water dives now. I hope I meet girls as hot as you on the social dives :P

[@evergreenflex6661]

Why don’t some kids learn to swim you just putting your child at risk your kid gonna hit those wild teenage years get in the water with his friends and die and never come back home to you. Train your kids to swim at a young age

[@davidshoyt1979]

you can fail a PADI course? I call padi divers seahorses. McDojo of the dive world.

[@OceanPancake]

Whats McDojo? I have only personally failed 2 people and 1 definitely could not swim and the other one definitely did not sink.

[@pacowaco9867]

How do you know that somebody is a Vegan? They will put it in their channels name even if it has nothing to do with diving, lol.

[@jacobpatrick2137]

How do you know if someone is a vegan? Dont worry, theyll tell you.

[@YouTube_user3333]

I don’t care what you eat.

[@ghtfy6vhgy753]

useless...

[@PrimalMiltos]

Compared to your videos from 2 years ago, you have aged about 10 years. IF you are planning to have kids someday I would strongly suggest to improve your diet by adding fats and protein from animals. Seafood is one of the best choices, combining excellent nutrition and low carbon footprint.

[@OceanPancake]

That is not a very nice comment. Unfortuantely one of the biggest contributors to aging is the sun, and I live in very very sunny places :)

[@PrimalMiltos]

@@OceanPancake PLEASE KATT, I BEG YOU to listen to people that have made the exact same mistake. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rIG4hXtmj7R1gJY

[@tracyrobinson6175]

Wtf shes beautiful and even if she wasn't what kind of fn troll would think it's ok to say this

[@PrimalMiltos]

@@tracyrobinson6175 Trolling? You meant "THANK YOU for saving another person's health from the horrors of Veganism". She is beautiful and perhaps should try and stay that way instead of continuing destroying herself with veganism. How cruel can you be Tracy? A little research (Viljamur Steffanson, Weston A. Price, YT channels like Asra Conlu, Sv3rige etc.) will enable Katt to have beautiful healthy children if she one day chooses.

[@OceanPancake]

Thanks for your concern but I am healthier than I have ever been, and seen all members of my family thrive from eliminating animal products. My grandmothers arthritis vanished and her blood pressure and heart health has improved so much that even her doctor went vegan. There are ample studies showing how decreasing and eliminating animal products expand your life span and quality :)

[@astr0817]

vegans can't wait to tell you they're vegan....

[@youtubespy9473]

?

[@ghostdog0342]

Lovely 😍 👌 👍 🥰