APNEA AUSTRALIA
STAGE A - FREEDIVING COURSE
Embarking on the journey of freediving is like embarking on a fascinating adventure of self-discovery, where you delve into the depths of both your body and mind.
Initially, holding your breath might seem a bit unfamiliar, but as you gain knowledge and undergo training, you'll find that it transforms into a source of joy, becomes effortless, and brings about a profound sense of calm.
Freediving, though challenging, has the power to be a truly transformative experience. The Apnea Australia Stage A Freediving Course serves as your gateway to the purest form of diving. Throughout the course, you'll not only discover the significance of breathing but also gain insights into the physiology of a breath hold – understanding why you feel what you feel and discovering safe ways to extend this experience, both on land and in the water.
By participating in this course, you'll acquire skills that elevate your freediving or spearfishing to new heights. Together, we'll focus on enhancing the flexibility of both your body and mind, making this journey an enjoyable and rewarding one.
Discover the space between two breaths & learn from the best
Location: Newcastle / Port Stephens, NSW
Dates: November 9th, 10th, 16th 2024
(3 days + 1h ZOOM Equalisation session)
Investment: $825 (payment options available)
BOOK NOWLocation: Newcastle / Port Stephens, NSW
Dates: March 22nd, 23rd, 29th 2025
(3 days + 1h ZOOM Equalisation session)
Investment: $825 (payment options available)
BOOK NOW
From birth, a man carries the weight of gravity on his shoulders. He is bolted to earth. But man has to only sink beneath the surface and he’s free
Jacques Cousteau
COURSE RESULTS IN AN INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION FROM APNEA INTERNATIONAL
Please see if you can source your own freediving gear – mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, weight belt, socks & gloves. To do this course you must be healthy and comfortable in the water.
| Ratio | 4 / 1 Instructor |
| Expected depth | 15m - 20m max |
| Days | 3 |
| Webinar | 1h Equalisation |
| Open Water Training | 2 sessions |
| Pool Training | Static Session + Dynamic Session + 5m Deep pool Session (Lambton pool) |
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About Michaela
From my early days as a competitive swimmer in Slovakia to becoming a surf lifesaver in Australia at 19, I've always been connected with the ocean.
My journey took an unexpected turn in 2009 when, struggling with scuba equalisation, I discovered freediving. Since then, I've never looked back, leaving scuba tanks behind. In 2016, I became one of Australia's first freediving instructors under the guidance of World Champion Erez Beatus, the founder of Apnea Australia and Apnea International.
Fueled by a burning desire to see how far I can get on a single breath, I sought mentorship from the renowned "Coach of the Champions," Martin Zajac. Amidst Covid lockdowns, I unearthed unconventional training methods, achieving personal best dives in all pool disciplined and deepened my understanding of mental training.
In November 2023 I set a new Guinness World Record by completing 101 x 25m laps of underwater breaststroke (DNF - Dynamic No Fins) under one hour. My freediving journey continued to evolve as I dove 50m deep into Egypt’s Blue Hole in May 2024.
In the coming years, I plan to become the best coach that I can be and compete in both pool and depth disciplines.
I value quality over quantity. In my course, you are sure to receive personalised attention from one of the best and most experienced freedivers in Australia.
AS A CERTIFIED APNEA INTERNATIONAL STAGE A FREEDIVER, YOU'LL BE EQUIPPED TO FREEDIVE SAFELY ON ALL COMMERCIAL BOATS & FACILITIES WORLD-WIDE
YOU'LL GET TO EXPERIENCE:
- Underwater Meditation: Embrace the tranquility of complete underwater relaxation. Hold your breath, release your worries, and immerse yourself in the depths of your soul.
- Emergency Response: Equip yourself with essential techniques to prevent and handle emergencies efficiently.
- Efficient Water Movement: Discover techniques to glide through the water with grace and ease, whilst conserving precious oxygen.
- Depth Confidence: Build the confidence to dive to at least 10 meters and surface with a smile.
- Dive reflex in action: Witness the fascinating dive reflex as your heart rate slows, allowing you to stay underwater longer and experience the deep sense of ease.
Freediving is a journey of self discovery and a celebration of the beauty of the underwater world.
Umberto Pelizzari
After completing your Freediving Course, you'll have the opportunity to join me on incredible adventures.
As a certified freediver, you can embark on exciting freediving trips, including our upcoming excursions to South Oz in February 2025 and Tonga in September 2025.
With highly experienced freediving coaches by your side, you'll have the opportunity to refine your technique, enhance your equalization, or focus on any aspect of your choice—without the pressure of a formal course. Alternatively, you can unwind, relax, and soak in the tranquility. The choice is entirely yours.
Warning: Freediving can be addictive!
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WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING
The Surf Survival course was the perfect introduction to understanding the power of breathing, getting the most out of every breath and staying calm for long periods under the water. It is a breath of fresh air for emerging ocean swimmers looking for real usable tips to reduce anxiety in the surf and develop skills to be more efficient under the water.
Andre Slade, Owner Ocean Fit
I have just done a freediving Stage A course with Michaela and it was an amazing experience! She is passionate and very considerate to everyone's needs so despite the tricky weather we have had a great time.
Petr Lan
Loved doing the course with Micheala, she is extremely professional, patient and approachable! What an asset she is to Australian Freediving!
Irene Lowrencev
It’s amazing how much you can get out of a one day course! Definitely will be lots more confident and calm during big hold downs from now on
I’d strongly recommend it for surfers of all levels who want the confidence and ability to push themselves in bigger waves. Plus it was a really fun day.
Tim Dickson, Manager - Slimes Boardstore
Had an awesome day in Adelaide, amazing instructor, learnt heaps about breath holding techniques and surf survival skills, highly recommend this to anyone who loves the ocean. Thanks so much, Michaela, so glad I came!
David Green
I am so glad to have taken this course with my son because I know he and I will be equipped with this knowledge of safe and disciplined freediving.
As a GP, I know her teaching of physiology and emergencies to be spot on. If you want to freedive well and safely, I highly recommend you take this course and practice, practice practice!
Marie Shieh
I didn't have much to say about her perfect technique and steely determination in the training tables!
William Trubridge
That was an amazing session this morning! Thank you for sharing your passion and knowledge, and I know this partnership will not only lead to increased swimming performance, but also to improved physical and mental health benefits for my team. You're amazing! :)
