In late 2020, PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) expanded its horizons by introducing a comprehensive mermaid training program. This initiative aims to tap into the growing interest in mermaiding, particularly in markets like China. While other scuba and freediving training agencies such as SSI and NAUI have been offering mermaid courses for some time, PADI’s entry into the field brings a new level of structure and professionalism. Let’s explore what the PADI mermaid training program entails and the emphasis it places on safety and responsibility.
Understanding Mermaids and Mermen
Mermaids, mythical creatures with the upper body of a human and the tail of a fish, have fascinated people for centuries. Today, the term “mermaid” is used to describe both male and female individuals who engage in the practice of swimming with a mermaid tail, also known as “mermaiding.” In many Asian cultures, including China, Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam, the word “mermaid” is not gender-specific, translating roughly to “human fish.” PADI adopts this inclusive terminology in its training programs.
What is Mermaiding?
Mermaiding involves swimming underwater with a mermaid tail, which typically includes a monofin (a single fin for both feet) and other accessories. While it may look effortless, mermaiding is a complex activity that combines elements of freediving, blind freediving (swimming without a mask), monofinning, and cosplay. Performing these activities underwater requires rigorous training to ensure safety and proficiency.
The PADI Mermaid Training Program
PADI’s mermaid training program consists of four levels, each designed to build on the skills required to safely and effectively perform as a mermaid:
- PADI Discover Mermaid Experience
- PADI Basic Mermaid Course
- PADI Mermaid Course
- PADI Advanced Mermaid Course
For simplicity, these can be grouped into two main categories:
- Mermaid (Pool Only): Introduction to mermaiding in a controlled, pool environment.
- Advanced Mermaid (Pool and Open Water): Expands skills to include open water environments.
Safety and Responsibility in Mermaid Training
PADI’s mermaid training program emphasizes safety and responsibility at every level. Here are the key components:
- Prerequisites and Minimum Standards
- Discover Mermaid Experience: No prerequisites; suitable for children as young as 6 years old.
- Basic Mermaid Course: Requires the ability to swim at least 25 meters and float comfortably for 3 minutes.
- Mermaid Course: Requires swimming 50 meters and floating for 5 minutes.
- Advanced Mermaid Course: Requires swimming 100 meters and floating for 10 minutes.
- Structured Training
- Confined Water Sessions: Initial training takes place in shallow, controlled environments to ensure safety.
- Progressive Skill Development: Skills are introduced gradually to prevent task overload. This includes freediving, blind freediving, and monofinning before integrating the full mermaid costume.
- Instructor Qualifications
- PADI ensures that instructors are thoroughly trained and qualified to teach mermaiding. This includes specific mermaid instructor certifications and an emphasis on safety protocols.
- Safety Measures
- Supervised Training: All sessions are supervised by qualified instructors to ensure the safety of participants.
- Emergency Preparedness: Instructors are trained in emergency response, ensuring they are prepared to handle any issues that arise during training.
- Equipment and Facility Standards
- PADI sets high standards for the equipment used in mermaiding. This includes ensuring that tails and monofins are safe and suitable for the participants’ age and skill level.
Enhancing the Mermaid Experience
While PADI’s standards set the minimum requirements for safety and training, dive centers and instructors are encouraged to exceed these standards to enhance the customer experience. This includes offering additional pool sessions, open water dives, and incorporating safety divers during training.
Conclusion
PADI’s mermaid training program provides a structured, safe, and responsible approach to mermaiding. By adhering to these standards, dive professionals can ensure that their students have a fun and educational experience while prioritizing their safety. At Making Mermaids, we embrace the professionalism and safety standards set by PADI, ensuring all our students can delve into the mystical world of mermaiding safely and professionally by participating in our PADI mermaiding courses.
