The Giant Stride entry is one of the safest and most comfortable entries when you are scuba diving from a bigger boat. It depends on the size and hight of a boat what entry you choose. The Giant Stride entry is one of the best options especially if you are nervous to enter the water for the first time.
Usually when you scuba dive from the beach we just walk into the water using the sloping bottom contour. When we dive from a small boat we roll backwards into the water or put the dive equipment on in the water. When we are on a larger boat the some people prefer to enter backwards, however we found out that in most cases the Giant Stride Entry is much better.
You first will practice the Deep Water Entry in the PADI Open Water Course. Many Diving Instructors like to teach the Giant Stride in confined water first.
How to do a Giant Stride Entry
1. Add air into your BCD (70%ish full)
2. Stand on the side of the pool or boat, with your toes on the side and your fins going over
3. Put your left hand on your weight belt and hold the buckle (if you have a weight belt)
4. Make sure you have your scuba mask on you face and your regulator in your mouth
5. With your right hand hold your regulator and mask in place (regulator in the palm of your hand and 2 fingers on your scuba mask
6. Look down and check if nothing is in the water and you are clear to enter
7. When everything is ok, look straight forward to the horizon
8. Make a big step (not jump) forward (Giant Stride) into the water
9. When you surface keep holding the regulator into your mouth and you scuba mask on your face
10. first fully inflate the BCD
11. Then you can take out your regulator (remember mouth piece down)
12. Switch to your snorkel
13. Give an ok signal to anyone that looked after you entering the water
14. Swim away so other scuba divers can also enter the water
Check out the Giant Stride skill video:
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In this video we used the Scuba Pro Jet Sport Fins. These fins are a personal favourite of mine. They are very light for traveling, very easy to put on and most important they are extremely comfortable to move around with underwater. Check them them out on Amazon below:
Jet Sport Fins – Scuba Pro
Next Skill: BCD Inflate & Deflate
Frequently Asked Questions About the Giant Stride Entry
What is the Giant Stride entry in scuba diving?
The Giant Stride is a common water entry technique used in scuba diving, especially from stable platforms like boats or docks. It involves taking a large step forward into the water while wearing full scuba gear, ensuring a controlled and safe entry.
How do I perform a Giant Stride entry correctly?
To execute a Giant Stride entry:
- Inflate your BCD to about 70% to ensure buoyancy upon entry.
- Stand at the edge of the platform with your toes overhanging and fins extending beyond the edge.
- Place your right hand over your regulator and mask to keep them in place.
- Use your left hand to secure your weight belt buckle or the back of your head to hold the mask strap.
- Look straight ahead to maintain balance and orientation.
- Take a large step forward, ensuring your legs are in a scissor position during the descent.
- Upon surfacing, fully inflate your BCD, switch to your snorkel if desired, and signal to the boat crew that you’re okay.
Why is the Giant Stride entry preferred in certain situations?
The Giant Stride is favored when entering deep water from stable platforms because it allows divers to enter the water smoothly and maintain control. It’s especially useful when the entry point is elevated, as it helps prevent contact with the platform or boat.
Are there common mistakes to avoid during a Giant Stride entry?
Yes, common mistakes include:
- Failing to check the entry area for obstacles or other divers.
- Not securing the mask and regulator, leading to potential dislodging upon impact.
- Insufficient BCD inflation, which can result in sinking below the surface.
- Looking down during the step, which can affect balance and orientation.
- Not stepping out far enough, risking contact with the platform or boat.
Can the Giant Stride entry be used in all diving environments?
No, the Giant Stride is best suited for entries from stable, elevated platforms into deep water. In environments with unstable platforms, shallow water, or when diving from small boats, alternative entry methods like the back roll or seated entry may be more appropriate.
Is the Giant Stride entry taught in scuba certification courses?
Yes, the Giant Stride is commonly taught during scuba certification courses, such as the PADI Open Water Diver course. It helps students learn proper entry techniques and build confidence in entering the water with full gear.
What equipment considerations are there for the Giant Stride entry?
When performing a Giant Stride, ensure:
- Fins are properly secured to prevent loss upon entry.
- All gear is streamlined to minimize drag and potential entanglement.
- Loose accessories are stowed or secured to prevent them from catching on the platform or boat.
Are there visual resources to learn the Giant Stride entry?
Yes, visual demonstrations can be highly beneficial. For instance, the “How To | Giant Stride” video seen above provides a clear demonstration of the technique.
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