Need a Refresher?

[cummings66]

In that case a refresher course would be my suggestion.

[SkuaSeptember]

Originally Posted by Zenagirl

I left it general on purpose to see what other's thought, hoping for a lively discussion.

More specifically this diver has a history of uncontrolled ascents, has trouble holding a safety stop mid-water, and is a very nervous diver. The 50 dives were done over a 2 year period prior, some cold some warm water, and AOW was done immediately after OW certification. The diver hasn't done any additional training since AOW and was originally thinking of simply doing a 45 foot "shallow" "easy" dive (cold water in a dry suit!!), to "ease back into" diving. I at least was able to convince them to do a pool dive prior, which was put off due to finding a dead computer battery.

Golfers think nothing of hiring a pro to help improve their game, Skiers arrange for private lessons to refine their techniques and many people hire personal trainers to improve their fitness level. Why do so many people think that just because once upon a time they managed to struggle through the skills needed to be certified there is nothing left to learn?

If a dead computer is an excuse not to go into the pool to refresh skills given the history you presented I would give serious thought to never, ever, ever going into the water with this person. Unless you are in the habit of getting into a car with a driver who is intoxicated. In that case, have at it!

[Defman]

I'll steal a line from Ronin, "If there's any doubt, there is no doubt."

[texdiveguy]

A refresher course is the way to go....inexpensive and usually about 4 hours long---well worth it. I have taught many of them over time and the divers were always happy they made the choice to get the class.

[newways]

PADI Scuba Tuneup course +/- 85.00 and well worth it if you've been out for a couple years.

[cummings66]

Originally Posted by SkuaSeptember

Why do so many people think that just because once upon a time they managed to struggle through the skills needed to be certified there is nothing left to learn?

I'd say it's got to do with the lack of competent instruction. There's a ton of average instructors who can teach you to dive, there's not as many that can push you beyond that initial stage.

In a way I'd say it's like Martial Arts, you can get to a point pretty fast and then it takes a long while to make changes. A good eye to catch mistakes and correct them allowing you to feel what's right is helpful. Many take DIR-F for this reason.

Like they say, perfect practice makes perfect. Or as a swim coach once told me, when you feel yourself start making mistakes stop practicing and rest. Wait until you can go again in perfect form.

[NoTime58]

I personally would take the refresher course, mainly to get back in the "comfort zone" of a dive. Some dive shops I've visited insist on a refresher course if you haven't been "wet" in over a year.

[jeepbrew]

Originally Posted by Zenagirl

More specifically this diver has a history of uncontrolled ascents, has trouble holding a safety stop mid-water, and is a very nervous diver. The 50 dives were done over a 2 year period prior, some cold some warm water, and AOW was done immediately after OW certification. The diver hasn't done any additional training since AOW and was originally thinking of simply doing a 45 foot "shallow" "easy" dive (cold water in a dry suit!!), to "ease back into" diving. I at least was able to convince them to do a pool dive prior, which was put off due to finding a dead computer battery.

Sounds to me that your buddy definitely needs a refresher course... or more.

[Zenagirl]

Yeah, I've always thought more instruction was needed and ironically, all of the diving information I posted was directly from the diver's mouth!! This isn't someone I'd be comfortable diving with for more than one reason.

[cummings66]

Point them to this thread.