Ear equalization in freediving is 99% practice and 1% theory (Why watching More YouTube videos won't help you much)
Back in the days when I was a more dedicated yoga (asanas) practitioner and teacher, I would often come across sayings from different yoga masters emphasizing the importance of regular practice over theory.
Quotes like “Yoga is effort. Only practice is important. The rest of knowledge is only theory” from BKS Iyengar, founder of Iyengar Yoga, and “Yoga is 99% practice, 1% theory” from Pattabhi Jois, founder of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, were reminders that one could not grasp the true essence of Yoga just from reading yoga books or ancient scriptures only.
Today as a dedicated freediving instructor, it is common for me to see freedivers having difficulties with their ear equalization technique. Whether they are beginner freedivers trying to learn the Frenzel maneuver or advanced freedivers working on their Mouthfill equalization techniques.
One thing they have in common besides their shared struggle is that quite often on their quest to improve their ear equalization technique, they would end up on YouTube watching countless videos of different people teaching the same generic knowledge.
While these online videos from charismatic instructors might claim to hold the key to effortlessly equalizing your ears during dives, the truth remains that ear equalization in freediving is a skill honed predominantly through practice, rather than theoretical understanding gleaned from online tutorials.
The 1% Theory.
Admittedly, theory plays a role in understanding the basic mechanisms behind ear equalization. Learning about the physiology of the ears, various equalization methods, and tips shared in instructional videos contribute marginally to one’s overall knowledge. It provides a foundation, akin to reading a manual before embarking on a journey. However, theory alone does not guarantee success in executing the equalization process underwater, and the truth is you don’t need to know the theory behind a specific ear equalization to be able to learn it.
Admittedly, theory plays a role in understanding the basic mechanisms behind ear equalization. Learning about the physiology of the ears, various equalization methods, and tips shared in instructional videos contribute marginally to one’s overall knowledge. It provides a foundation, akin to reading a manual before embarking on a journey. However, theory alone does not guarantee success in executing the equalization process underwater, and the truth is you don’t need to know the theory behind a specific ear equalization to be able to learn it.
If you look back at the history of freediving, both as a survival practice and sport, ears equalization theory had very little place to play in these freedivers’ lives. Sea gypsies like the Moken of Thailand or Bajau of Indonesia had no clue what the epiglottis was, or how to do a “K” or “T” lock, yet they managed to do the Frenzel maneuver (which by the way is a bit biased to say that Hermann Frenzel was the one who developed it) since the sea nomads have been using it for centuries to dive below 10m.
Even Umberto Pelizzari himself admitted not knowing about what the Mouthfill maneuver was back in his active days as a competitive freediver, yet still was able to freedive to 80m+ in constant weight and break the world record in No Limits with a 150m dive.
The 99% Practice.
The crux of mastering ear equalization in freediving lies in practice, practice, and more practice. Freediving is an experiential sport that demands the development of muscle memory and intuitive responses. No amount of theoretical understanding can substitute for the feeling of being underwater and gradually acclimating your body to equalization techniques through repeated trials.
Consider it akin to learning to ride a bicycle. You might read about the physics of balance and watch tutorials on proper cycling techniques, but the actual mastery comes from hours spent wobbling and pedaling until your body instinctively knows how to stay upright. Similarly, ear equalization requires consistent immersion in the water, allowing your body to adapt and refine the technique through trial and error.
From personal experience as a freediver, I went from using the Valsalva maneuver to the “Frenzel” maneuver from regular practice of advanced snorkeling (snorkeling with casual dives to 8m) twice a week for a couple of months, way before I even did my freediving course where I would first learn about the Frenzel maneuver.
Years later, I started developing mastery over an alternative and more efficient technique to the Mouthfill for my deeper dives and recently started freediving my way down with the BTV. As a teacher, I have also seen many students master the Frenzel just from time spent in water training together, without having covered the theory of Frenzel beforehand.
As a rule of thumb, I often tell my students to give themselves 100 descents working only on their ear equalization technique, not thinking about depth or new PB. If you do 10 dives per session, in 10 training sessions, you would have hit the 100 descents. Do 2 training sessions per week and in 5 weeks you would have seen much improvement in your equalization technique.
Why YouTube Videos Aren't Enough.
YouTube ear equalization tutorials serve as introductory tools, offering insights into various equalization methods such as the Valsalva maneuver, Frenzel technique, Mouthfill technique, or the Hands-Free Equalization technique. They provide a glimpse into the mechanics and offer some handy tips. However, they lack the personalized guidance and real-time feedback crucial for individual improvement.
Moreover, every individual’s anatomy and physiology are unique, leading to different challenges when equalizing. A generic tutorial might not address the specific issues a freediver faces. Only through personalized practice can a freediver recognize their body’s responses and adapt techniques accordingly.
The truth remains, the primary reason these freediving instructors put a video about ear equalization to teach the same theoretical knowledge somebody else has already done before, is to drive traffic to their channels, not really to teach you some kind of ear equalization magic.
Your favorite YouTube freediving influencer simply cannot see what you are doing in-water.
The Road to Mastery.
For aspiring freedivers aiming to conquer ears equalization, the path forward involves a balance between theoretical knowledge and dedicated practice. Start by familiarizing yourself with the basics through online resources (though it is not really necessary). However, don’t linger in the realm of theory for too long. Equip yourself with a knowledgeable instructor or experienced buddy who can provide personalized guidance and feedback.
Commit yourself to consistent in-water practice sessions, gradually pushing your limits while being mindful of safety. Embrace patience and perseverance, understanding that mastering ear equalization is a journey that unfolds over time.
While YouTube tutorials can offer a glimpse into the world of ear equalization in freediving, true mastery stems from the relentless pursuit of practice. So, gear up, dive in, and let the water be your ultimate teacher in this exhilarating journey toward mastering ear equalization in freediving.