Would it be unwise to go snorkeling without trying it in shallow water first?

Question

Would it be unwise to go snorkeling without trying it in shallow water first?

Answer 1

Well are you a robust swimmer? If you are then put on the mask and snorkel and relax. If 6 year old kids can do it so can you. Never panic--- enjoy and take your time.

Answer 2

Where ever you try snorkeling do NOT go alone.

Yes it might be easier to learn how to breathe out only through the tube if you are in shallow water or dry land but it is not essential.

Your first few breaths of water will soon cure you of breathing in through your mouth.

Answer 3

It would be ok to go snorkelling (if you can swim ok, snorkelling is easy), but don't go scuba without trying it out in shallow water, as its totally different, you need to learn how to breath using the aparatus (not as easy as you think), takes alot of people by suprise if they don't train first and also you may need to learn how to pop your ears so the pressure does not hurt them

Answer 4

Not necessarily, providing you are a very good swimmer. Not a bad idea to check the gear out in a pool mainly to get the mask perfected the way you want it too for a good seal. Whatever your destination for snorkeling, there's always places to check the gear. I caught on almost immediately when I checked out snorkeling gear for the first time. The key to successful snorkeling is relaxation in the water. Try not to overanalyze. Practice will improve your skills and comfort in the water. Practice breathing through the snorkel with your head out of the water before the real thing. Put the mask on your head, wear your strap slightly high on the back of your head and not too tight!, suck it into your face, breathe through the tube and put the mouthpiece all the way in your mouth like football players. You'll be a pro in no time.

Answer 5

The first time I went, it was in 10 ft deep water! Keep your head at a 45 degree angle and  keep your arms to the side. Then lock the knees and just kick :) Plus a lot of time they give you these little "life jackets"

But if you're that worried and think you could drowned, might want to practice a little first :)