Blackwood
Contributor
just become a solo diver & no one but yourself will need to be satisfied........
There are friends, family and loved ones to consider...
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just become a solo diver & no one but yourself will need to be satisfied........
Hi, newbie here also, and like you, want to learn better skills, but probably won't go full DIR (at least not yet). There are other options for getting that training you're after. Check out some of Jim Lapenta's posts on ScubaBoard and his website (Welcome to UDM Aquatic Services). My understanding is he teaches the skills you're talking about, even in his open water classes. He's in Pennsylvania, which isn't exactly close to you, but might be able to refer you to someone with similar training methods.
If I can figure out how, I'll try to forward this thread to Jim via PM.
Not meaning to be argumentative, however, I find great irony in these conflicting statements.
All the best, James
While Jim may be a very good instructor, what you get from a GUE/UTD class is probably not emulated by those not exceptionally close to the system of diving.
Also, if you think it is all about the gear and skills then you are only half way to understanding why its an amazing class.
However, the OP seemed to be coming from the viewpoint that it was the only way to learn the skills he wanted to learn. It's not.
As you say, the skills and gear are only part of what the DIR system offers. For many, it's the best system available, and that's why so many are enthusiastic about it. For others, it's really not ... because the system sets limitations on your diving that may not be a good fit for either your learning style or your goals as a diver. For many, it's like trying to pound a square peg into a round hole.
The author of this thread stated preferences that preclude DIR training. Rather than complain that the DIR system should be more inclusive, I think it best for him to seek the skills he wants through other venues that are more compatible with his personal preferences and goals.
Although the DIR approach is a great system, and a fantastic way to become a skilled diver, it's not the only way. After all, there were people out there with mad skills long before DIR came along ... and there's people out there now with mad skills who have never taken a DIR class.
The DIR agencies didn't invent any of that stuff they teach ... they simply codified it into a system that makes sense, and that works. But in order to work, you have to take it as a whole system. Taking bits and pieces from it effectively nullifies the benefits of the system. If that's what you want ... and in this case it appears to be what the author wants ... it's better to seek your training through other venues.
The most significant consideration is finding the right instructor ... there are some very skilled instructors out there who are not DIR ... you just have to know where to find them.
... Bob (Grateful Diver)
OP, I am a very big believer in getting the instruction you need as opposed to taking a class. IF you really want to learn the "Fundamental" or "Essential" skills, but don't want to take a class of those names, just hire the same instructor for a day of lessons.I think, given your stated preferences, a better question would be to ask where you can acquire the skills you seek outside of the DIR approach to diving.