Getting Started

     So you want to SCUBA dive. The first thing to do is to get certified. Open Water certification is not difficult, it only takes commitment and some money. It takes about thirty hours worth of classroom, pool sessions, and open water dives to get you prepared on your first underwater adventure. There are different certifying agencies to choose from such as NAUI, PADI, and YMCA. Each agency has its own reputation, but in the end it is the experience and commitment of the individual instructor that makes the difference in the quality of your Scuba training. The classroom and pool sessions are usually done simultaneously, while the open water dives usually are done elsewhere (either in a quarry or a more exotic destination).

 About Gears

    SCUBA diving is an expensive sport, especially when you're just starting. Not only do you have to worry about training and certification expenses, you also have to buy your own equipments. Fortunately, these expensive equipments are made to last a lifetime. There is such a wide range of selections when it comes to buying SCUBA gears. Consequently, prices also vary. Although you don't want to overdo your shopping too much before you're sure to like SCUBA, you do want to make sure your first set of equipments suit you comfortably in terms of price and physical fit. Try several brands at different shops before making a decision. Do research in magazines or online to find out more about gear performance. In the end, the most important factor about your gears is how they fit on your body.

Have You Got What It Takes?

    Being able to breath underwater is the most amazing feeling. However, let's face it, not everyone can SCUBA dive even with unsurpassed determination. When considering SCUBA diving, you must also consider your physical condition. Ask your physician if you have medical conditions that might disqualify you from being certified. Generally, you must be healthy and in good physical condition. Your ears and sinuses should be clear and healthy. You are free of lung problems and your central nervous system is in order. You don't have alcohol or substance abuse problems. You are not an insulin-dependent diabetic, nor are you pregnant. Of course the most obvious is that you must be comfortable underwater and have a good swimming ability.

Articles You Might Find Useful

"Which Certification Agency To Choose" in Diverslink may shed some light to those trying to understand agency differences.

"Diving and Menstruation" by Kristy Allison answers some concerns for women divers.

"Diving Health & Fitness" by Linda Gettmann provides explanations on physical conditions and diving.

Dive Resources On The Web

Skin Diver : The first diving publication in the US has an online site that is thorough and informative. A great place to find SCUBA articles and information for gears and destinations.

Scuba Diving : An online site for Rodale's SCUBA Diving publication. You can find lots of information here including ones from fellow divers. Includes comprehensive gear tests and comparisons. Also has information for dive destinations around the world.

New Diver : A sister site of RSD, this one is geared towards beginners and those who are possibly interested in getting certified.

Sport Diver Interactive : The online version of PADI's diving publication Sport Diver

DAN : Divers Alert Network provides safety information for SCUBA divers

Dive Index : An extensive directory of scuba-related sites on the net.

SCUBA Diving Publications

Australasia Scuba Diver Magazine : Based out of Singapore, this dive magazine concentrates on the Australia-Asia region. Superb articles and photographs covering not only destinations, but also wildlife research! 6 issues/year

Dive : This UK dive magazine also gives articles on local European diving in addition to the more exotic destinations. Gears for the European market.

Dive Training : The name of this publication is self explanatory. This is the magazine for trainers and trainees. Comprehensive information about scuba diving techniques and equipments.

Fathoms : Although the first publication of this magazine was only last year, the writings and photographs in it are quite delightful. This is not your typical dive magazine. Its motto "adventure for serious divers" really says it all. There are lots of interesting historical articles about veteran divers or destinations. Expedition Dispatches section offers exciting dive trips for readers. 4 issues/year

Rodale's Scuba Diving : Articles mostly on diving concerns rather than on destinations. Articles on trips and destinations usually written in segments, like such you'd find in a travel book.

Skin Diver : One of the oldest dive publications around. Articles on worldwide destinations, diving tips and gears. Yearly Photo Annual edition has some of the most beautiful underwater photography done by professionals.

Sport Diver : PADI's diving publication is loaded with articles on dive destinations. Good for general browsing to help narrow down your next trip, but not comprehensive enough on each location. Of course, only PADI-affiliated dive operators are mentioned here.

Sport Diving : Not to be confused with PADI's Sport Diver. It gives excellent information on background and diving in the Asian-Pacific region. Has comprehensive articles on wildlife. 6 issues/year.