Scuba diving is a popular underwater recreational sport. The term “scuba” is an acronym that stands for Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. This is because when a diver dives underwater at any depth, they breathe using a specially designed mouthpiece affixed to a tank containing compressed air. Scuba diving is also a kind of aerobic activity that allows divers to navigate underwater regions while also exercising the body.

The practice of scuba diving has been hailed for its many benefits, below are some health benefits of scuba diving:

• Scuba diving enhances general cardiovascular fitness and is essential for weight management, improved blood circulation, reduced blood pressure, etc.
• Scuba diving is great for building muscle strength and endurance. Swimming against the current involves using the legs, core, and arms, all of which promote muscle mass and endurance.
• Diving is a great way to enhance your body’s posture and flexibility. A powerful core is vital for gaining an ideal body posture, and each movement by a diver engages some amount of body core.

Diving is an endeavor that requires skill and knowledge to execute; this is why experts advise divers always to observe some essential diving tips while underwater. Some of these tips include:

Never Drink and Dive

Diving under the influence of alcohol is a bad idea because intoxication leads to reduced reaction time and poor coordination ability, which are dangerous in a marine environment. It also increases your level of heat loss and diminishes your ability to respond to multiple tasks simultaneously, such as clearing your mask while trying to gain buoyancy.

Do Not go Beyond Your Limits

While it can be thrilling to go over and beyond your limits underwater, such as diving way beyond your depths, it is best to stay within your diving limits while underwater. Dive according to your qualification; do not dive beyond 60 feet if you are not qualified to do so; also, avoid diving in overhead environments, or night diving, if not adequately prepared.

Never Dive Without Company

As a rule of thumb, it is always advised that divers should not dive alone without a partner. This is because it is best to have an underwater partner with whom you can maintain constant communications and who may help to keep your gauge in check. In cases of emergencies, their help will be of enormous importance. In most instances, your buddy can be the difference between life and death.

Avoid Reckless Contacts with Underwater Organisms/Objects

Interactions with underwater organisms or objects should be limited, and, in most cases, it is advised that you do not touch. This is because touching can damage aquatic lives. For instance, breaking coral branches can harm marine life as they take hundreds of years to grow. On the other hand, most marine lives are poisonous and naturally react to unwarranted intrusion with stings or bites, which can be fatal if not appropriately managed.

Diving is a great activity that lets you explore the depths of the world’s marine environment. To have quality time underwater, always observe the safety tips listed above!