Fitness for learning to SCUBA Dive

Are you excited to dive into your new hobby? Maybe you're concerned about how prepared you need to be?

It's no surprise (well it shouldn't be) that SCUBA Diving takes place in the water, to that end you should be reasonably confident in the water. It shouldn't come as much of a shock either that you need some equipment to go diving and some people find it a little on hte heavy side.

So, what's the absolute?

SCUBA Diving is a popular hobby due to the low barriers to entry, if you are reasonably fit and healthy, can get the groceries out of the car and climb stairs without feeling fine then you should be absolutely fine!

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There are three elements to being 'fit to dive'

Medical Form

See our blog on the UKDMC / PADI Medical or have a look at the form here; the medical questionnaire.

200m swim (or 300m with equipment)

Swim the above distance without stopping. There is no time limit, and you may use any swimming strokes you want.

Survival float (10mins)

You can lie on your back, on your front, tread water, ‘dog paddle’, or anything else to stay afloat without using any flotation aids.

There are many adaptive techniques that allow individuals with physical challenges to meet the waterskills requirements.

People with paraplegia, amputations and other challenges commonly earn PADI Open Water Diver certifications.

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Certain medical conditions require a doctor’s approval to participate in scuba diving activities. Avoid disappointment, download and review the medical questionnaire.

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