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SNORKELLING
Snorkelling is a fun pastime that can be enjoyed by practically anyone with a few tips and a little practice in the pool. The more experienced snorkeller may benefit from a few of these hints too.
Fitting
Fins should be a little loose; try standing on your toes in them; if your heel stays in the foot pocket, that's a good fit. Try the mask on by holding it against your face without the head-strap, and inhaling through your nose. If the mask stays on your face while you are breathing in, it should not leak in the water.
Setting up
Wear the mask strap at the widest part of the head (above the ears) at a comfortable tightness. Angle the snorkel mouthpiece until the top of the tube points backwards behind your ear; to be sticking up out of the water when you are face-down. Make sure that no hair is trapped between the mask and your face, making the mask leak. Men can put Vaseline on a moustache and smooth the hair down.
SPIT!
Before you enter the water, spit into the mask, rub this around the lenses, then give it a quick rinse just before you put it on. This will prevent the mask fogging up.
Breathing
Use your mouth only; breathing out through your nose will force the mask away from your face and make it leak. A little water in your mask doesn't matter. It's easier to practice with the mask and snorkel alone at first, without the fins. It sometimes takes a couple of tries to overcome your brain's certainty that you can't breathe with your face in the water; persevere and breathe slowly.
Finning
Keep your knees as straight as possible so that most of the movement comes from the hips (like a sexy walk!). Ankles and toes should be relaxed; holding on with your toes gives you cramp. Practice by swimming on your back; your knees should not break the surface. Then try the same thing on your front. Try to keep your hands by your side.
Getting water out of the mask and snorkel
Look up, pull the bottom of the mask off your face, and let it drain out. If you dive, or dip your head under the surface, water is going to go into the snorkel; just blow it out (like Flipper!) or lift your head a little, take the mouthpiece out of your mouth, and give it a shake. Remember it's only water, not acid; if in doubt; SWALLOW!
RELAX!
Swim to where you want to be, hang in the water and float. Once you are quiet and not moving, fish will come out of hiding, and will soon be swimming around under you. Fish ID books are available in the reference library in the lounge area.
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