Controlling Ascent Rate

[DetectorGuy]

For me it has always been harder to nail down my buoyancy near the surface. The volume of air in your lungs and your BCD doubles going from 33' up to 0 feet (twice the volume). From 66' going up to 33' the percentage of change in air pressure is less (1/3 the volume). From 99' to 66' the percentage of change is even less (1/4 the volume). If you can master your buoyancy in the top 33' then the deeper stuff will be easier but with a different set of risks associated. Being "near" the surface doesn't reduce your risk of air expansion injuries. It increases it. So be don't pop like a cork from your safety stop or the bottom of the pool! AND, ALWAYS BREATHE NORMALLY.