Teaching proper finning techniques is essential for making students feel comfortable, graceful, and efficient underwater. Learning to use fins properly not only conserves energy but also helps divers move smoothly and avoid disturbing marine life.
“Swimming with a buddy, without touching the bottom” is actually one of the skills that open water students practice in the pool. You will learn how to teach this specific skill in your PADI IDC but of course, it’s typically a skill that you’ll have your students practice during the entire open water course.
Teaching this skill
Already when swimming on the surface in the pool, you can demonstrate proper finning style. Start with the classic flutter kick, emphasizing that the movement should come from the hips rather than bending the knees too much. Many beginners tend to “bicycle kick” with bent knees, which can be tiring and inefficient. It also tends to push students ‘up’, making them feel underweighted.
One of the most important things you can do as an instructor is to emphasize proper body position. When a diver’s body is in the correct alignment, they’ll swim with less drag and maintain a steady, controlled pace. You’ll notice that learning proper buoyancy control and proper finning style goes hand in hand. As students improve their kicking style, they’ll have better control and better air consumption.
The reward
Watching students go from clumsy kicks to smooth, streamlined movements is incredibly rewarding. You’ll see them start to move confidently and effortlessly, enjoying their dives with less fatigue and a sense of freedom.
This is one of the skills that helps students feel like true divers, comfortable and in control in the underwater world.
Become a PADI diving instructor
Being a PADI diving instructor is truly the best job out there! You get to live and work in stunning tropical destinations, stay active every day, and experience the incredible reward of helping students learn new skills and boost their confidence.
Imagine spending your days teaching others to dive, sharing your love for the underwater world, and seeing their excitement as they master each skill.
Dreaming of becoming a PADI diving instructor? Get in touch, and we’ll show you how!
