Giant Stride Entry: Steps, Safety, and Common Mistakes
The giant stride is one of the most common and effective entries used when diving from boats, docks, or platforms level with the water. It is simple, controlled, and works well for most divers in full gear.
Step by Step: How to Do a Giant Stride Entry
- Fully gear up and confirm you are cleared to enter.
If on a boat, wait for the crew signal. If on your own, your buddy or dive team leader should confirm the area below is clear and conditions are safe. - Approach the edge with your fins on.
Stand with toes slightly over the edge and feet shoulder width apart for balance. - Secure your mask and regulator.
Place the palm of your hand over the regulator and use your fingers to hold the mask lens to your face. Use your other hand to control loose gear such as an SPG, console, or camera. Unsecured items can swing and strike you mid entry. - Look straight ahead.
Keep your eyes on the horizon to maintain posture and avoid the instinct to look down mid step. - Take a confident, wide stride.
Step forward with one leg while the other remains planted. Do not jump. As you move forward, the back leg will lift naturally. - Hit the water upright.
Aim to enter vertically with legs slightly apart for stability. - Resurface and give an OK - but only if you mean it.
Once you surface, confirm that you are truly OK. Check buoyancy, breathing, and gear. Then signal OK and move away from the entry point to clear space.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
| Mistake | Why It Happens | How to Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Looking down during the step | Curiosity or nervousness breaks posture. | Keep eyes on the horizon from setup through entry. |
| Short or hesitant step | Fear of the drop or poor balance. | Commit to a wide, deliberate stride for stability. |
| Feet too close together | Higher chance of catching a fin or losing balance. | Maintain shoulder width stance before stepping. |
| Loose or dangling gear | Rushing or skipping pre entry checks. | Clip hoses and accessories before approaching the edge. |
| Holding the mask incorrectly | Unclear training or habit. | Use palm to press the reg and fingers to secure the mask lens. Do not pinch only the nose pocket. |
| Dangling gear hits you mid entry | Items like an SPG can swing during the step. | Secure everything. Even a small swing can hurt and distract you. |
| Not clearing the entry area | Forgetting there is a diver behind you. | After surfacing and signaling, fin away to open space. |
Additional Tips
- Practice the giant stride in calm conditions to build reliable muscle memory.
- Never enter until the team confirms the water below is clear, even in good visibility.
- When you surface, pause before signaling OK. Verify buoyancy, breathing, and how you feel first.
- If unsure about form, ask your instructor or buddy to observe and give feedback.