GIRLS CORNER TWINSET-DIVING

from Perfect Diver Magazine 25 issue

WE TRO QUARRY

GIRLS CORNER TWINSET-DIVING

Photo Jon Borg

Text ISADORA ABUTER GREBE

Twinset-diving is for technical divers who only dive long and deep. It needs a lot of strength to carry double-tanks and women are not built to handle such weight.

This was for a long time a strong belief I had. In this article, I would like to tell you how I changed my mind on diving in twinset configuration as a girl.

WHAT IS TWINSET?

A standard twinset is a set of two scuba cylinders, connected with a manifold and tank bands. The manifold is a set of two single tank valves, typically bridged with an “isolator”.

WHY TWINSET: THE MAIN ADVANTAGES

1. REDUNDANCY

In a twinset configuration, you are breathing from a source of gas, which can be transformed into two, independent systems. In case of a leak or malfunction of any part of the breathing apparatus (regulator, hose, valve etc.) you can just shut the gas flow and still use the other, working side of your system.

2. MORE GAS AND EASY GAS MANAGEMENT

Two cylinders mean twice as much gas – simple. The difference is easy to calculate. For instance: if you have 50 bar in a 2x12 L twinset, it is approx. the same amount of gas as 100 bar in a single 12 L tank. This means that you can make longer and/or deeper dives. It is also easy to monitor your gas consumption – as the tanks are connected, one SPG will show you the gas pressure in the whole system.

3. STABILITY AND TRIM

Doubles are wider than a single cylinder configuration. As the weight is distributed not only in the center of your back, the tanks lay very stable on your back. This is why you will find it easier to keep your horizontal trim and side-balance, which is what many divers aim for.

Warning! In some cases it may feel less comfortable, but with proper adjustment and personalization you will be able to create a much more comfortable configuration than in a single-tank. I highly recommend training with an experienced instructor to achieve this.

**Practising Valve-Drill**
Photo Bartek Trzciński

MAIN OBSTACLE: WEIGHT

Carrying a lot of weight requires a lot of strength, and women aren't built to handle it. This was a belief I held for a long time. Most of the double-tank divers are men, whilst female divers tend to stick to single-tank configurations. Just like me. Being short and not the strongest, I was afraid of doubles.

**Scientific Data Collection**
Photo Adam Dive

A TWINSET STORY

Last summer I was faced with a big challenge – writing my master thesis about the significance of wrecks as artificial reefs. For this research project I needed to spend many hours with full concentration underwater. It was simply impossible to do it in single tanks. I did not want to compromise efficiency, gas planning and most importantly – safety of my dive team. Due to the logistics convenience, high need of standardization, and my future ambitions (technical diving), I chose double tanks.

For this reason, I needed to become stronger and train myself as a twinset diver. I made an effort to visit the gym as frequently as possible and focused on lifting more weight. When the underwater work began, I wondered how I would manage the upcoming dive marathon with such heavy gear. At first, it was uncomfortable to lift the tank from the trunk, walk up the stairs, or manage the slippery entrance without falling.

However, the more I lifted the tanks, the longer I walked, the more comfortable I became. I also realized that I had increased my strength and mobility to the point where I was no longer afraid to use a twinset – simple as that!

Interestingly – during this time, I changed my workout regime from weightlifting at the gym to practicing yoga. I concentrated on a holistic approach to my body, combining strength, flexibility and mobility. To make myself feel more at ease, I also walked around with twinsets on my back whenever I could. I did not push myself too much, but challenged my capacities. Whenever I felt that it was too much, I took a break and concentrated on my wellbeing rather than on pushing myself to the extremes.

After some weeks of diving in double-tank configuration, it was hard to believe that I achieved something I was sure I would never achieve: feeling good with a twinset. I got so used to it that I would almost always choose a twinset over a single tank!

My example illustrates that double tank diving is not just limited to men. If you confront your discomfort with gentleness you may actually turn it into comfort! Do you want or need to become a twinset diver? Just begin gently.

Be persistent and you will realize that it brings a lot of fun and satisfaction!

TIPS FROM TWINSET GIRLS TO THE FUTURE TWINSET GIRLS:

There are always gentlemen eager to help. (...) The easiest dives are from a boat, as they are less demanding. In fact, you dress your equipment on the bench, then two steps and jump into the water. And there you no longer feel the weight. It's harder to get out of the water, but you have to make the effort – for the pleasure of diving.

Wiesia Łaszyn

The difference in the weight of the 12L bottle can be really big from 12 to 15 kg. A 3 kg difference in one bottle is a 6 kg difference in the twinset. I was looking for bottles that would be as neutral as possible, so the volume of the bottle = approximately their weight. I chose concave bottles with a pressure of 200 bar, which weigh 12,1 kg each.

Janka Havlickowa

I've learned, through twinned diving, that everyone needs help. Everyone. It's not that you are weaker, or less capable. Never forget that as women we are naturally calmer and able to handle situations better. Since we are used to reaching behind our backs every day we are more flexible and nail those valve drills with ease.

Sarah Pierce

In the water I am like an astronaut. I fly. Longer time in „space” requires more air. Double tanks are simple double air. (...) and one more thing – being a Twinset Girl stimulates me to go to the gym and stay fit :)

Ella Ceklarz

Don’t doubt yourself! The gear might seem big and intimidating but it opens up a new skill set and expands what you’re capable of, both above and below water.

Colleen Riley

You may choose warm-water dive destinations at the outset of your twinset adventure to avoid wearing thick undergarments (which could restrict flexibility and mobility). It is challenging enough to handle doubles, so it is wise to practice in an environment that is comfortable for you.

Start with a small twinset (2x7 L is a friendly start) and slowly build your capacity – there is absolutely no rush.

Take the twinset on your back and practice standing up, walking and sitting down as much as you can.

Train your body with exercises that focus on whole body stability, strength and mobility

Support each other! We are all in this together! Ask for help with carrying your doubles and vice versa: offer your assistance with carrying your friends' doubles. It has a double advantage:

1. Strengthening your muscles

2. Strengthening your team spirit

Did you enjoy this read? I have good news: my next article will be about girls who use twinset configurations due to their commitment to marine life conservation and other underwater projects... Stay tuned!

In the meantime: Visit your girls-corner at: @isa_diving_nature (Instagram)

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