20 meter underwater swim, pararescue, can i get some clarity?

Question

Im trying to train for past test. I was wondering if i have to be fully submerged underwater for the the underwater swim or can i swim of the surface with my head facing down? Also can i kick off the wall on the underwater and also can i kick off the wall during the 500 meter swim?

Answer 1

If you aren't a member, register at SpecialTactics.com. Just about every question you could ever have concerning Pararescue has been asked and answered there - and it is correct info from former and current PJs.  

Answer 2

i assume its fully submerged, and for the wall I will go with a no, because theres not random walls in the real world

Answer 3

Hi, I am going to give the facts vs, a guess and reference web link for further questions:

(CCT) / PARARESCUE (PJ) Physical Ability Stamina Test (PAST) CRITERIA

2 x 20 Meter Underwater Swim: The 2 x 20 meter underwater swim should be demonstrated first either through actual demonstration or by use of the training video if available to the administrator. Provide the member 3-minutes of rest between underwaters. If members surface or break the water surface during any portion of the swim, the test will be stopped and considered a failure. Swimsuits and swim goggles/scuba mask are the only equipment items allowed. After completion of the underwater allow a 10 minute rest before next event.

http://www.specialtactics.com/past.shtml

Look here to see actual videos near the middle 3rd of the page and see exactly what you have to do in PAST and further training.

http://www.specialtactics.com/documents....

Good luck in choice!

Answer 4

Thanks for wishing to serve your country-and for wishing to test yourself.

Well, you have to swim underwater-period.  Don't get in the habit of trying to find "work arounds": when you're in the pipeline the instructors will notice-immediately.  That's attention you don't want.  Yes, I am pretty sure that kicking off the wall for both swims is perfectly acceptable-as are dolphin kicks.