Loose those weights
Using the correct weights when you are diving, is very important not only for comfort but also for safety. Being overweighted could cause you to make an uncontrolled descent, which could lead to running out of gas, decompression sickness, etc.
If you always have to inflate your BCD when you are underwater, chances are you are overweighted.
Using the optimum amount of weight, i.e. that makes your neutrally buoyancy means you use less energy on movement which saves you gas. Carrying less weight out of the water makes entries and exists easier too.
COMFORT
Keep yourself as relaxed as possible, and make sure all your equipment is the correct fit and comfortable. If something isn’t right, ask your instructor or guide for assistance.
Stress, anxiety, and over-working underwater are the enemies of a good dive. Prepare yourself, physically and mentally for diving, and never dive beyond your limits.
BREATHING
Breathe in a slow and steady pattern, to oxygenate your body as well as possible. Use the 4 in/4 out method as a good reference to control your breathing. Shallow breathing, skip breathing, and holding your breath will never be of benefit when diving and can be dangerous.
REMEMBER: NEVER HOLD YOUR BREATH
ANALYZE
Every dive you do is a lesson, learn to mentally review your dive to see want went well (and why); as well as what didn’t go as planned (and why). This is how you learn from your own experience, share and discuss with your buddy for an even better analysis/learning experience.
EFFICIENCY
You need to do everything underwater as efficiently as possible, poor finning technique, poor buoyancy, or poor streamlining all will hinder your ability to reduce your weights. Remember nothing happens underwater immediately, all movements should be slow and deliberate.
All RAID training centers & instructors will happily share their experiences, and advise you on how you can improve your skills and reduce the amount of weight you are carrying. If you can’t find a dive center in your area to help, let us know.