Dear Scuboard,
I have recently became interested in scuba diving. After reading through some FAQs I am now worried that this sport may be too advanced for me. What I am interested in doing is getting my cert then doing some very basic dives in lakes, going no deeper than 20-30 feet max. Nothing exciting like going to caves and such. Just simple looking around.
Would you consider diving like I said would be easy for anybody to learn or is it still really hard?
Love,
John
I really appreciate all the answers. This is the friendliest board I've ever visited.
I used to weigh in around 475 at my peak, so I am sure moving around with 75 lbs of gear won't be TOO bad.
Step 1 I am guessing is contact a school. I will search the boards for a guide on how to do that (I am sure you don't wanna see another "which school" topic)
Thank you so much
Welcome to the board John!
I'll reiterate what some of the other people have said about diving not being for everyone. But usually that comes from a fear of water, claustrophobia or other issues.
Your weight can be an issue as diving is a physical activity. One thing I would suggest is that you talk to your doctor about it from a health standpoint. You might also contact DAN (
http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/ You don't have to be a member to ask them questions) and ask if they can advise you of a doctor in your area familiar with diving physiology who can give you a better picture of it from this point.
Also, as others have mentioned gear may be an issue. As far as a buoyancy compensator goes, if nothing else a back plate and wing can accommodate a large range of people if you can't find a traditional style BC that you like in your size. Exposure suits may be a concern as well. Other than that, I don't see too much issue with equipment that can't be overcome.
I would recommend that you check with a local shop and see if they will allow you to try snorkeling in the pool so you can get a feel of whether you like being in the water. Then you might be able to arrange a Discover Scuba Diving course (DSD) that allows you to have a supervised trial.
Finding an instructor you like, with good teaching skills is important. There are some stickies at the top of the New Divers and Basic Scuba forum that will help you with that. Be sure to explain to them your concerns and make sure they're addressed. You may also want to check out this forum:
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/dive-into-fitness/
I don't think anyone here can truly advise you whether you can or can't learn to dive, we can just point you in the right direction for you to find out for yourself.
Good luck on your journey!