Freediving is not just about exploring the underwater realm; it’s also about embarking on a personal journey of self discovery - exploring what your mind and body is capable of.

The SSI basic freediver is an entry level programme, perfect for absolute beginners & aspiring freedivers aged 10+ with no prior experience, to learn foundational techniques and take the fi rst step into the world of freediving to see what its all about! – it's the best experience course to begin your underwater breath holding journey!

Your digital materials and practical sessions with a freediving professional will give you an introductory freediving experience where you will learn how to safely dive recreationally with a buddy, in a pool/confi ned water to depths of up to 5 metres.

It is the perfect precursor to the pool freediver or freediver course when you’re ready for progression.

You can read the digital materials at your leisure, working through the online academic sessions knowledge review questions and fi nal exam in the comfort of your own home at your own pace before the start of your course.

The courses are run in small groups over two consecutive Wednesday evenings during our weekly club sessions in the Mount school swimming pool.

In the practical sessions, you will have the opportunity to practice the freediving breathing cycle on land before experiencing holding your breath whilst relaxing and fl oating on the surface of the water. During the second pool session, you will experience how to comfortably swim distances in the pool on a single breath whilst remaining calm and relaxed.

How It Works

Knowledge Development

You’ll begin with SSI digital learning, covering breathing techniques, equalisation, safety procedures, and freediving theory.

Confined Water Training

In the pool, you’ll practise:

• Breathing and relaxation techniques
• Static apnea
• Dynamic apnea
• Streamlining and efficient finning
• Buddy procedures and rescue basics

Instructor‑Led Coaching

Your instructor will guide you through each skill step‑by‑step, helping you build confidence, comfort, and control in the water.

A Community That Dives Together

At Overland Underwater, freediving is more than a sport — it’s a shared experience.
You’ll train alongside a supportive, encouraging community who celebrate progress, help build confidence, and make every session enjoyable.

Expect calm, focused training, shared achievements, and a welcoming environment where everyone grows together.

What’s Included

• SSI digital learning
• 2 x Confined‑water training sessions
• Instructor coaching throughout
• All equipment provided (mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit where applicable)
• Insurance coverage during training
• Full SSI app access and digital certification card

What’s Not Included

• Travel
• Accommodation
• Dive site entry fees (if open‑water sessions apply)
• Food and drink

What You’ll Need

• Swimwear
• Rash vest/T‑shirt
• Towel
• Personal toiletries
• Weather‑appropriate clothing for open‑water days (if applicable)
• SSI app profile set up with photo and details

Optional additions:

For those who would like to increase their water confi dence, this course can also be combined with the SSI survival swim course.

Survival swim course £200 (we recommend this for non-swimmers or those less confi dent in water as a precursor to the basic freediver programme)