Scuba Diving Basics

OK so you have decided to take your first plunge literally into the undersea world and join the hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts who enjoy the sport of recreational Scuba Diving. Scuba Diving really is the adventure of a lifetime. It is the closest thing you can get to exploring an alien world; right here on your own planet - floating nearly weightless as exotic creatures and landscapes drift by. But before you don that wet set there are a few basics you need to know.

First up you do not necessarily have to be a strong swimmer to be a Scuba diver, but you should at least be a competent swimmer and confident in the water. There are no physical requirements to receive Scuba training other than that you must be in reasonable physical health, and over 12 years old. (Kids as young as 8 can receive certain limited certifications). There are several different organizations that offer Scuba Diving training and instructions such as PADI, The Professional Association of Diving Instructors and NAUI the National Association of Underwater Instructors. Getting trained not only makes sense form a safety standpoint, but you cannot rent or purchase equipment without certification from one of the recognized Scuba Diving organizations. Once you receive certification, it does not expire, and no matter which organization you choose to train with, you can stop at the basic scuba diver level or advance through other levels and scuba diving specialties.

Any basic scuba diving instruction will begin with snorkeling or so called "skin diving" - in and of itself a wonderful experience and a great way to "get your feet wet" so to speak. Skin diving or snorkeling instruction will allow you to get familiar with the underwater experience and get comfortable with some of the use of the basic scuba gear essentials, mask, fins, snorkels and buoyancy compensator. Depending on how often you intend to dive, most instructors recommend you buy at least these basic essentials, and rent other SCUBA gear such as tanks and regulators. Scuba Diving classes will include the costs of gear rental for the length of the course and the necessary certification dives. Most complete classes are 3-4 days. After learning the basics of skin diving, you will be introduced to basic Scuba Gear. In Basic Scuba Diving training you will not only be trained in the safe operation of basic scuba gear, but you will learn about the science of diving and how to stay safe and responsible in an undersea environment. The classes are designed to improve your skills slowly and build safety and confidence usually in a swimming pool under the auspices of several fully trained dive instructors, before moving out to a number of "open water" certification dives. The entry level or basic Scuba course offered by any of the accredited scuba diving organizations will result in a certification that will allow you and a buddy (never, never Scuba Dive alone) to dive in the open water and explore the undersea environs in safety and confidence.

There are many first time experiences that are unforgettable, the first time your Dad or Mom lets go of that bike seat and you sail off down the street on your own, first kisses, and first drivers licenses - but the first time you put on that Scuba mask slowly descend below the surface of the water and yet you are still breathing, it is truly an experience like none other - and one you will likely never forget.