It's amazing to think that we know more about outer space than we do about the very ocean that supports and sustains all of humanity. While what's beneath the big deep blue brings a sense of almost frightening ambiguity, it also fascinates us and stirs up a desire to learn more. Of course you can always take an oceanography class, read books, and watch documentaries on underwater explorations, but there is nothing like scuba diving and the face-to-face encounters you experience in one of the most mysterious environments on earth.
The first step on the path to experiencing the wonders of marine life is to find a reputable scuba diving certification agency. The agency should provide course materials, diving equipment, and at least two weeks of classroom, pool, and ocean training. Once you find a scuba certification school you are comfortable with, enroll in the course and get ready for the time of your life.
Prior to the first day of class, it is best to read any required text and complete the workbook exercises. Typically, the first several classes will be half lecture and half pool instruction before moving on to morning ocean dives. The agency should provide all necessary equipment, including wetsuits, tanks, weights, air, regulators, and buoyancy compensators. However, some items are necessary but are usually not provided, so you should provide your own mask/snorkel/fin set, boots, gloves, and cold water hoods. The good thing is that once you are certified, you will have all these items for your personal use.
In the United States, all basic scuba certification programs require a student swimming ability test. Most evaluations ensure that every student can complete the following: 50 foot lateral swim underwater with only one breath; 220 yard swim in less than 12 minutes; 10 minute water-tread; and retrieval of 5 pound object from 12 feet of water. While the swimming evaluation seems rigorous, it is imperative for anyone entering the ocean to have these physical abilities. Some agencies may even require a physical examination with written consent from your doctor that they approve of your participation.
Especially considering the tuition of the certification course, it is important to understand that scuba certification is not guaranteed. You must complete the classroom, pool, and open ocean examinations with an overall score of at least 75% in order to receive you recreational scuba certification. Those considering making scuba diving a career should also look into the further advanced courses, such as the advanced open water and rescue diver training and certification.
Author Resource:-
Kyle Rootsaert is a Certified Advanced Scuba Diver with more than 100 logged dives around the world. He is also an avid underwater photographer and videographer. Kyle's passion for marine life has also led him to become a marine aquarium enthusiast. A proud member of the American Telemedicine Association, Kyle Rootsaert - Pharmacist is a leading contributor to the world of medical and pharmaceutical practitioners.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.articlesbacklink.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
