Re: Scuba Divers?
- Thread starter erinjames
- Start date
Hi Erin,
It has been a long time since I dove but I can tell you that yes it gets better. The first real dive I went on I was very nervous and I sucked a tank of air in about 10 minutes (it was 80 cf at 3000 psi so we are talking some fantastic sucking here) I eventually got certified in cave diving and I had many enjoyable dives.
Are you generally comfortable in water? If yes, then I believe you will adapt. It is a wonderful sport.
-joy
It has been a long time since I dove but I can tell you that yes it gets better. The first real dive I went on I was very nervous and I sucked a tank of air in about 10 minutes (it was 80 cf at 3000 psi so we are talking some fantastic sucking here) I eventually got certified in cave diving and I had many enjoyable dives.
Are you generally comfortable in water? If yes, then I believe you will adapt. It is a wonderful sport.
-joy
candi
Cathlete
It's really like anything else. The more experience you have, the more confident you will feel and the more comfortable you will become.
I remember the first time in class we strapped on the BC and jumped in the pool....I panicked. Now I jump off a boat into the Ocean and really enjoy myself.
Eventually, you will love it! Give yourself lots of credit because you are training yourself to breath, communicate and exist in a different world. Even if it's just for a short time.
p.s. If you can afford it, get a dive computer. Just a simple one. It can make diving even more enjoyable. Unless you're one of those people who likes fooling with the dive tables.
I remember the first time in class we strapped on the BC and jumped in the pool....I panicked. Now I jump off a boat into the Ocean and really enjoy myself.
Eventually, you will love it! Give yourself lots of credit because you are training yourself to breath, communicate and exist in a different world. Even if it's just for a short time.
p.s. If you can afford it, get a dive computer. Just a simple one. It can make diving even more enjoyable. Unless you're one of those people who likes fooling with the dive tables.
lovemygirls
New Member
I'm a lurker here, but I felt compelled to respond since I used to be a certified scuba diver but I haven't been since I had my two girls over 8 yrs. ago
I got choked during a mask clearing exercise which was taking place in a quarry. Somehow I kept my cool, kept my air in and coughed/choked until I recovered. I didn't bolt to the surface!! I was so happy afterward that I remained calm. My dive master was right there and prepared to help me at any second, and he was watching me carefully. I was scared but I felt safe that he would help me and jump in if he thought he needed to.
I encourage you to talk to your instructor/dive master. Come a little early to class if you need to get some one on one time. Tell them what you're nervous about. A general nervousness is completely natural - - you're doing something totally new and you feel out of your element. If you're having real anxiety tell your instructor because the two of you can talk through any specific issues and help you prepare yourself to do the right thing at the right time (kind of like visualization).
The instructors are there to help you, you shouldn't be herded through the exercises. Some people adjust to the experience easier than others - - we all have our talents and gifts and we all have things we have to work a little harder at mastering.
Hopefully you'll enjoy the full experience. Its awesome.
Kerri
I got choked during a mask clearing exercise which was taking place in a quarry. Somehow I kept my cool, kept my air in and coughed/choked until I recovered. I didn't bolt to the surface!! I was so happy afterward that I remained calm. My dive master was right there and prepared to help me at any second, and he was watching me carefully. I was scared but I felt safe that he would help me and jump in if he thought he needed to.
I encourage you to talk to your instructor/dive master. Come a little early to class if you need to get some one on one time. Tell them what you're nervous about. A general nervousness is completely natural - - you're doing something totally new and you feel out of your element. If you're having real anxiety tell your instructor because the two of you can talk through any specific issues and help you prepare yourself to do the right thing at the right time (kind of like visualization).
The instructors are there to help you, you shouldn't be herded through the exercises. Some people adjust to the experience easier than others - - we all have our talents and gifts and we all have things we have to work a little harder at mastering.
Hopefully you'll enjoy the full experience. Its awesome.
Kerri
I got certified in 1987. I used to go in the 80's and 90's but, after having three kids, have not had much of an opportunity to go since. I agree that it gets easier and that the more comfortable you are in the water in general, the less nervous you'll be.
I always marvelled at how cool it was that I could actually breathe underwater and not have to come up!
I always marvelled at how cool it was that I could actually breathe underwater and not have to come up!
I got certified in '95. My instructor was almost going to drop me from the class because I would freak when removing my mask. I always forgot to keep breathing through my mouth. I think years of orthodontic work got me in the habit of breathing through my nose. Anyway, I was lucky enough to live in a house that had a pool and practice, practice, practice. If you know anyone that does have a pool, I strongly suggest using it.
I had about a 5 year layoff when I went diving in Cancun and freaked once I started going down, but I realized that my mask was not on my face securely so water was getting in. I ended up getting sea sick from bobbing around the top of the water. The dive guys were nice enough to let me come back the next day when the ocean was much calmer and I had no problems. To make a long story short, it does get easier and you do get more comfortable in the water. Sometimes, it just takes people longer to get the hang of it.
Beth
I had about a 5 year layoff when I went diving in Cancun and freaked once I started going down, but I realized that my mask was not on my face securely so water was getting in. I ended up getting sea sick from bobbing around the top of the water. The dive guys were nice enough to let me come back the next day when the ocean was much calmer and I had no problems. To make a long story short, it does get easier and you do get more comfortable in the water. Sometimes, it just takes people longer to get the hang of it.
Beth
candi
Cathlete
Beth,
Yes, I've probably got over 50 dives logged and I still worry what my reaction would be if my mask came off underwater. Our neighbors just put in a pool and said I could come over and practice the face mask thing. When that mask comes off, I automatically want to start breathing through my nose. I also have to make sure no hair is in the way or my mask starts leaking.
Luckily, I have not gotten seasick yet. I understand the best thing for seasickness is to get under the water so you're not bobbing. But, when you're experiencing those kind of conditions, it's hard to make yourself do that, I'm sure.
Yes, I've probably got over 50 dives logged and I still worry what my reaction would be if my mask came off underwater. Our neighbors just put in a pool and said I could come over and practice the face mask thing. When that mask comes off, I automatically want to start breathing through my nose. I also have to make sure no hair is in the way or my mask starts leaking.
Luckily, I have not gotten seasick yet. I understand the best thing for seasickness is to get under the water so you're not bobbing. But, when you're experiencing those kind of conditions, it's hard to make yourself do that, I'm sure.
Hi! Funny to see your post this AM! Last night was MY first pool dive too! I got home so wired I didn't go to bed until 2AM! Thankfully I didn't have to work today. Where are you taking classes? I'm in So. Ca. I stressed about this all day yesterday and never felt so intensely focused as I was during last nights 3 hour class. I still think I'm going to forget something important and wonder how on earth I will remember what goes where and how to set up and then take apart everything! Sit down class again tonight!
mogambo
Cathlete
I have done about 40 dives and it takes some time to get comfortable. After all, it's all new for you, the gear, the breathing, the buoyancy control. And once you get into open water for your check outs it will be a bit more challenging because there is a lot more going on, waves, limited visibility, current, distracting fishies, etc. Figure on 5 or 7 dives before you're "riding a bicycle".
It's worth it to put in the time, but it can be frightening at the beginning. The instructor and staff are very well trained and have often done hundreds of dives. They can read what's going on and help you if needed.
To prevent motion sickness, a real problem for me, I recommend a drug called "Meclizine", 25 mg the night before, and 25 mg an hour before the boat experience. It comes in several brand names and is now over the counter.
I learned to dive with my then 13 yr old daughter. She is now my regular dive buddy. She is sooo good at it. She's been all over the world diving. I like that when we're under water, she can't talk!!
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It's worth it to put in the time, but it can be frightening at the beginning. The instructor and staff are very well trained and have often done hundreds of dives. They can read what's going on and help you if needed.
To prevent motion sickness, a real problem for me, I recommend a drug called "Meclizine", 25 mg the night before, and 25 mg an hour before the boat experience. It comes in several brand names and is now over the counter.
I learned to dive with my then 13 yr old daughter. She is now my regular dive buddy. She is sooo good at it. She's been all over the world diving. I like that when we're under water, she can't talk!!
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Hi! I am taking classes in Baldwin, NY (Long Island) at Danny's Dive Shop, but using the Freeport, NY recreational pool. Tomorrow nights class is from 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. It's going to be a long night since I usually go to bed at 9:30 - 9:45 p.m. during the week. We've gone through the first 2 chapters and seem (I hope) to have grasped everything - I was a little freeked out when we had to remove the regulator out of our mouths and be able to reach for it in the water. I never felt comfortable with breathing from my regulator, like I wasn't getting enough air, but when I told my instructor, he said it was fine, but needed to get used to it. After about 2 hours in the pool, I had to come out because I thought my teeth were going to fall out because I was chattering so much. I did buy a wet suit that afternoon when we went back to the shop, I hope that helps with helping me keep warm. Tomorrow we also take our swimming test - 2 laps.
Have fun in class tonight, let me know how everything went.
Erin
Have fun in class tonight, let me know how everything went.
Erin
mogambo
Cathlete
Once you get some bottom time, you might want to get drysuit certified. Some beautiful places I've been diving (Catalina Is., Vortex Springs, Canary Islands) have almost been ruined by how freezing cold I was. Hoods, gloves, 7 ml wetsuits, I still get chilled in 52 degree water if you stay down more than 20 minutes!
candi
Cathlete
I can't stand to be cold so I always wear my wetsuit over skins. I've only worn a hood a couple of times and that was in the northern Florida rivers and springs.
DH and I aren't real fond of cold climates (understatement) so the coldest place we've ever dived was Hawaii and Bahamas in November.
DH and I aren't real fond of cold climates (understatement) so the coldest place we've ever dived was Hawaii and Bahamas in November.
Lynn M.
Cathlete
Hi Erin-
I am also a certified diver and have been diving for about 16 years. I have logged over 100 dives and just love it!! It will definitely get better over time!!
Did you manage to do OK with clearing your ears on descension? That can sometimes be a challenge.
Also, keep in mind that if you are a "catheite" you are going to do GREAT with your usage of air!! Your aerobic capacity will be alot better than a non exerciser so you will use up your air alot slower!! (Isn't being fit a wonderful thing?)
Keep us posted on how your next class goes. I am sure you will be great!!
Lynn M.
I am also a certified diver and have been diving for about 16 years. I have logged over 100 dives and just love it!! It will definitely get better over time!!
Did you manage to do OK with clearing your ears on descension? That can sometimes be a challenge.
Also, keep in mind that if you are a "catheite" you are going to do GREAT with your usage of air!! Your aerobic capacity will be alot better than a non exerciser so you will use up your air alot slower!! (Isn't being fit a wonderful thing?)
Keep us posted on how your next class goes. I am sure you will be great!!
Lynn M.
UNLVCrjChick
Cathlete
I wanted to revive this OLD thread because I just got certified two weeks ago and can't wait to dive in the Caribbean next month! Anyone ever dive there? Will I be okay with a 3 mm wetsuit, 2 mm gloves?
malibugirl
Member
Ahhh, my favorite subject! I was certified in 2005 and have never looked back. My husband and I are rapidly approaching 250 dives. We have taken every class there is up to becoming an instructor. I am a Master Scuba diver and cannot get enough.
The Caribbean has some good diving, but the problem is its access ability. The reefs are not as nice since they are visited often. Roatan Honduras has been totally fished out by the Natives as has Belize. I would not return to either one. Cozumel is stunning and I have been six times. San Salvador Bahamas is great! Tons of sharks and healthy reefs.
The best two weeks of diving I had was in Fiji. Very advanced diving due to currents, but so amazing.
I think a dive computer is a MUST! Actually you should have two for redundancy. You never know when you will be at 90 feet and one fails, I know, it happened to me. They are way better at tracking your nitrogen loading than the charts.
Ok I will stop now as I could go on forever. The best sport I ever participated in.
The Caribbean has some good diving, but the problem is its access ability. The reefs are not as nice since they are visited often. Roatan Honduras has been totally fished out by the Natives as has Belize. I would not return to either one. Cozumel is stunning and I have been six times. San Salvador Bahamas is great! Tons of sharks and healthy reefs.
The best two weeks of diving I had was in Fiji. Very advanced diving due to currents, but so amazing.
I think a dive computer is a MUST! Actually you should have two for redundancy. You never know when you will be at 90 feet and one fails, I know, it happened to me. They are way better at tracking your nitrogen loading than the charts.
Ok I will stop now as I could go on forever. The best sport I ever participated in.
mspina
Cathlete
YES, YES, YES! I got certified last February, all my pool work was done in mid-January. I am a huge junkie and dove a LOT all year round, even in cold New England waters where I live. In fact, I think I'll be out this weekend with my local dive club (the land temp will be in the mid-30's, water at depth in mid-40's).
It's definitely something you will get better and better at. A few tips that REALLY helped me early on: 1) if you are breathing (i.e., reg in mouth, plenty of air), you are fine. Calm down, and slowly and rationally figure out whatever is causing you stress. For example. taking off my mask and putting back on / clearing for some reason took me FOREVER when I first started, so much so that I would get a little freaked out doing it. Until I remembered that I was breathing, so everything was ok, even if it took me 3 minutes to complete that task.
2) Try not to overthink things, you will get better with EVERYTHING with time. Just practice, learn, and do what you are supposed to do, and then when you get your cert, find a good dive buddy or club and dive, dive, dive. Don't rush yourself, it's not a race. 3) Finally, SLOW DOWN. Diving is all about seeing the amazing world under the surface, it's not a race underwater. The closer you look at things, the more you'll see. It's an amazing activity - I love it! Good luck and enjoy!
LOL - didn't notice how old this thread was! I hope the OP is still diving and enjoying it! I'm hoping to hit 50 dives by my 1 year anniversary.... Getting very close!
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UNLVCrjChick
Cathlete
Wow, 50 dives in one year? I'm impressed. I'm thinking I may be a vacation only diver because I live in Vegas ,and thus, there aren't many opportunities for diving here. That is why I'm debating whether I should even buy dive gear, although I'm planning on taking the Advanced Open Water course soon so I can perfect my buoyancy and navigation skills.
I just did my first real, post-certification dive this past Thursday: I dove in the shark tank at Mandalay Bay casino. Leaking mask notwithstanding, it was amazing and helped ease my fears of running into a shark in the ocean.
I just did my first real, post-certification dive this past Thursday: I dove in the shark tank at Mandalay Bay casino. Leaking mask notwithstanding, it was amazing and helped ease my fears of running into a shark in the ocean.
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workingToBeFit
Cathlete
This is a very interesting thread even though started a long time ago! I think this is really very different for everyone. I got certified in open water about 7 years ago and am about to get rid of all my equipment. I worked hard at this, got certified in basic, then got two more advanced certifications as well. Also joined a club and went on a lot of dives, both fresh and salt water, ocean and springs. All the time, never, ever felt "comfortable." Finally realized that forcing myself to keep diving because I thought it was a great thing to do and because many friends and family were doing it, was ridiculous. Everyone is different, and you have to do what you individually are comfortable with. Diving has its risks and I would recommend to anyone, that you have to feel comfortable and confident, in your own mind, and not consider what anyone else thinks. In the end, it's all you when you're underwater.
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