Scuba diving is a fun and adventuresome sport. However, you have to learn the basics of scuba diving in order to begin. The term scuba in an acronym; the letters stand for S-self, C-contained, U-under water, B-breathing, A-apparatus. Once you have decided to learn to scuba dive, you will need to take classes. It is not something you can just learn on your own; you have to study the basics of scuba diving with a professional because it is too dangerous to dive otherwise. You must be certified to dive. Once you have passed your basic scuba diving course, you will be given a card that shows your certification. You are required to show this card before you go on a diving excursion.
Scuba diving simply allows you to be able to breathe under water. The under water breathing apparatus that we know today was invented by Jacques Cousteau and Emile Gagnan in 1943. The air in the tanks is not oxygen as is thought of by some, it is simply compressed air. The air is inhaled and exhaled into the water through the mouth regulators. The tanks hold a limited amount of air so you have to keep track of the amount of time you spend under water.
There are two organizations that will train you to receive your certification to scuba dive. One is called PADI (Professional Association of Dive Instructors) and the other one is called NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors) The courses will cost around $400. In order to learn the basics of scuba diving you need to not be afraid of the water which is obvious and you need to be able to swim for a certain distance. You will also have to be able to tread water or float for at least 10 minutes. You should also be in good shape without any serious medical conditions. It is a good idea to have your doctor to check you out before you begin taking the course.
Most of your diving will be done from diving boats. On the boats you will have a diving master. It is very important that you follow the dive master’s instructions. He will instruct you on what to expect about the site in which you will be diving and how much bottom time you will have.
Scuba diving is definitely an exciting adventure. It is very important that you learn the basics of scuba diving from professional PADI or NAUI instructors. You should evaluate if you are confident in the water and if you are in good enough shape for the exercise of scuba diving before you begin. Have fun learning the basics of scuba diving and getting ready for that first dive.
I learned a lot from this post, much appreciated!