Respectfully using scuba fins

In addition to pure technique, you must ensure that your finning has as little impact on the environment as possible.

In particular, you must not ‘plough’ the seabed. You'll learn to do this throughout your diving life, but here are a few tips to get you started:

• Fin stroke should be smooth and not jerky. If you are well-balanced in the water, a few short strokes of the fins are all you need to maintain your position and move slowly. Fins should help you limit your efforts.
• Smooth swimming goes hand in hand with good balance (weight, lung volume control, life jacket).
• Anticipate your movements. Avoid sudden, rapid movements underwater.
• On bottoms with sand or particles, only fin with the tips of your feet, lying flat with your fins slightly higher than the rest of your body.
• On coral reefs, you should also swim very softly, a few dozen centimetres above the seabed. If you have to get close to look in a hole, do so slowly, without rushing, taking care not to damage anything.
• Avoid swimming ‘upright’ like a seahorse, as this is the best way to damage the seabed without even thinking about it.
• Be careful with your instruments (pressure gauge, console, etc.) and avoid leaving them lying around on the bottom.
• Avoid dazzling the fish, especially if you have a powerful headlight. Some fish may die as a result.