What is the first image that pops into your mind
when you hear the phrase scuba diving? Perhaps you think of tropical
islands, buried treasure and a pastime for the wealthy and athletic.
Perhaps you are thinking that you need to be of professional or
athletic swimming standards in order to take up scuba diving. What of
the expensive gear, hours of practise and lessons? The cost of flying
to the Bahamas and St. Lucia to go snorkelling? All of the above could
not be further from the truth.
Scuba
divers go diving wherever there is sufficient water. Reservoirs, lakes,
oceans, big puddles (ok, slight exaggeration) are all prime scuba
diving locations. If you search for scuba diving locations around the
area you live, you will most likely be (pleasantly) surprised at the
wide choice available to you. Whilst nothing can compare to the sheer
exquisite beauty and sense of accomplishment of snorkelling with
dolphins and turtles off the coast of some tropical island, there is
nothing to stop you practising at home.
Sure,
scuba diving is like any other sport, the more fit you are, and
generally active, then the easier you will find to progress and enjoy
scuba diving. However, there is no real restriction to age, weight or
gender when it comes to scuba diving; it is a very equal opportunity
sport so no need for an Olympic gold medal in swimming! You will need
to consult with your doctor however before undertaking any sort of
training regime with a training school, this is a mandatory and legal
requirement. What should be a mandatory requirement for you if you are
serious and committed about learning scuba diving is that you must do
so under the supervision and tutelage of a trained professional. It
maybe tempting to cut corners (and save some money) with learning from
a friend, but knowing how to dive, and being able to dive are two very
distinct things. This is especially important in regards to how to
react in an emergency situation. Scuba diving is for the most part a
safe activity, but with any kind of sports there are risks involved so
knowing how to handle such possibilities (remote as they maybe) is very
important.
Whilst in order to
progress, gain certification and develop into the more advanced and
challenging aspects of scuba diving you will require more costly gear,
the basics can be covered by a simply snorkel. Honestly! To begin with,
your training for scuba diving will lean towards the theory of scuba
diving, physics and physiology of diving as well as safety techniques
and concerns for actual diving.