Neutral buoyancy (and trim)

Neutral buoyancy is when you neither sink nor float in the water. It allows you to hover at a specific depth without moving your limbs constantly. You need this skill to stay at 18 m during a long reef dive because it stops you from hitting the coral. Proper trim refers to your horizontal position while you are hovering. Good trim means your body stays flat like a skydiver rather than tilting up or down. I often see beginners struggle with heavy fins that pull their legs toward the bottom. If your legs sink, move your weight closer to your center of gravity. This adjustment helps because it balances your buoyancy more effectively during long descents. Check your air consumption regularly since your buoyancy changes as your tank empties.