The human body contains "air zones" and, when we freedive, these zones get smaller, therefore we need to pump air into them, in order to equalize the
pressure which is created and avoid trauma.
There are various methods used for equalization, with the most common being Valsalva, but there also freedivers who can equalize hands-free.
That technique is extremely useful for content creators, for obvious reasons, as well as for spearos, due to the reduction of noise underwater (it drives the fish away!).
Alchemy partner Luca Malaguti is one of the lucky ones, as he can equalize in that manner. During his recent visit to Cyprus, he shot a video freediving a ship wreck with his V330 carbon fins, showing how his hands-free technique helps creators get more stable footage.
In his own words "hands-free equalization is super useful for underwater filming (especially selfies) and spearfishing. Knowing how to hands-free (aka. VTO/BTV) safely and consistently, could mean catching that steady video or not missing your shot in spearing. I'm quite proud to have to learned this in the cold waters of the Howe Sound, BC.
It's a good & challenging learning environment. "
