Open water scuba divers

Diving can be a relaxing,and rewarding hobby. Scuba is short for self contained underwater breathing apparatus. There are two major certification authorities in scuba diving. The first being PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors.) The next is NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors.) Both are exceptional groups to have the theory of scuba diving taught by. I personally choose PADI as my means of certification. Either way the instructors will provide the best possible training.

Some of the basic gear required are: mask, snorkel, fins, BCD (buoyancy compensation device), regulator, tank, wet/dry suit, submersible pressure gauges, alternate air source, compass, dive computer. Purchasing all the required gear can cost thousands of dollars, for your certification the gear can be rented at a nominal fee. From the basics of knowledge development in classroom or online, confined water dives (pool) , and completion of the open water dives. As an open water diver you can dive to 60' with your new found skills. With further training Advanced Open water diver allows you to a greater depth of 130'. There are also other specialty courses that one can take. From peak performance buoyancy, wreck diving, night diving, photography, drift diving, boat diving. The list goes on it is up to each individual to determine there goal to accomplish. The key to safe diving is plan your dive, and dive your plan., always dive with a buddy. Welcome to the wonderful world of scuba diving. To locate a PADI diving training program near you go to http://padi.com

The ability to breath while underwater is such a thrill for me even today. Not only is it a fun to do , it is also a way to work out. With the proper training , the use of the BCD and rest of your gear will make scuba diving basically effortless. I would recommend a course in underwater photography, if you plan on diving while its cold a dry suit class too. If you plan on buying your own gear there are many places to look. Online there is a very large variety of websites that sell scuba gear. One thing to do is check out there customer satisfaction comments weather its good or bad. Basically a good starter package is a BCD, regulator w octopus, dive computer, mask, snorkel, fins, a blunt tip dive knife, exposure suit, weight belt with right amount of weight.

Its also a good idea to have safety gear with you at least on shore if needed. First Aide Kit, a oxygen bottle, signal flares, extra clothing, when diving in remote locations where cell service is restricted it would not hurt to have a sat. phone in case of an emergency.