SUDS Introduces Freediving Module for 2026 Coastal Dive Events
In response to participant demand and encouraging results from pilot sessions conducted in late 2025, SUDS is officially adding an optional introductory freediving module to the 2026 SUDS Coastal Dive & Freediving Intro event at Virginia Beach, August 16–18.
What Is Adaptive Freediving?
Freediving — or breath-hold diving — involves descending underwater on a single breath, without scuba equipment. Increasingly popular in the adaptive sports world, freediving has demonstrated benefits for veterans including:
- Mindfulness and breath control as a PTSD management tool
- Reduced reliance on equipment (beneficial for upper-extremity amputees)
- Low-impact, full-body movement for chronic pain management
- Mental resilience training through controlled breath deprivation tolerance
Module Structure
The Virginia Beach module is introductory level — no prior diving experience required. Participants will complete:
- Classroom breathing techniques and safety protocols (2 hours)
- Pool breathwork and static apnea practice (1 session)
- Shallow ocean entry with adaptive freediving instructors (2 dives)
"When I'm underwater on one breath, there are no intrusive thoughts. Nothing from the deployment follows me down there. It's just me and the water." — SUDS Pilot Participant, November 2025
Registration
The freediving module is capped at 8 participants per session. To reserve a spot, contact SUDS when applying for the August Virginia Beach event and indicate your interest in the freediving module.