Posted by Mojo.Mike on September 14, 2004 at 10:59:40:
In Reply to: Re: Any tips for a new beach diver? posted by Anastasia Laity on September 13, 2004 at 15:35:08:
I use both methods, fin on and fins off, depending on the location and the conditions. Usually if the waves are small, less than 2 ft., in a protected area. It is fins off. I also watch the waves as Chris said to see a pattern. If the waves are 2 ft. or more and there is a chance of me gettin knocked down. It is fins on. I don't try to stand back up, but swim/crawl like crazy. Until I am out of the area that waves are breaking. Nowadays I try to avoid such scenarios and big waves.
One thing I notice about new divers coming out after a dive in heavy surf. Is they try to do it standing up and walk gracefully out of the water. If the surf comes up during a dive. Do a beach crawl on all fours till you are above the surf. There is a photo of a beach crawl at this site.
http://www.saintbrendan.com/Aug4/GraphicsAug04/MonasteryDivers.jpg