Is Scuba A Sport?

[canismajor]

I know this isn't the first time this has been brought up but the last time was quite a while ago. So, since there are a lot of newer people here since the last time the question was asked, I'd like to ask it again.

I'm guess I'm just curious about it.

I've noticed that a number of you call scuba diving a "sport."

I've never thought of it as such. Why? Because - to me - a sport is something that is a competition performed within a specific set of rules.

Hobby? Sure.
Activity? Uh-huh.
Strenuous? You bet.

Competitive? Just the diving itself? No. I mean, please tell me where I'm wrong here.

Sport? I don't think so.

What's your opinion?

 

[cerich]

freediving can be a sport (and deadly at that)
Scuba, nope just a great hobby or better yet lifestyle!

 

[TheRedHead]

It can be a sport and one can make it competitive by setting the training bar higher and higher. At that level, people do die diving. So yes, it can become a sport.

 

[Footslogger]

I've always considered it one of my "Hobbies". Sport, to me, implies some level of competition. I personally do not associate diving with competition.

Diving is something I enjoy doing ...when I'm not working or doing the other things I enjoy doing (my other hobies/addictions).

 

[skynscuba]

Yes, a sport:

...
3. diversion; recreation; pleasant pastime.
...


Of course, that definition would include playing cards, too, so you need the additional criterion: "if you can't die from it, it isn't a sport." SCUBA still makes the grade.

 

[scubadobadoo]

We all have different ideas about the definition of the word "sport." I go back and forth on this. First I think no, not really a sport but then I realize that I do enjoy diving more now that I have become far more fit. After all, some research does suggest that people in shape have less of a chance of getting hurt (in any way) while diving if they are fit. Still, being fit certainly isn't a requirement for SCUBA. I guess I will settle on calling it a leisure sport.

 

[TheRedHead]

I've always considered it one of my "Hobbies". Sport, to me, implies some level of competition. I personally do not associate diving with competition.

Extended range diving can be a competition and test of yourself. You're not competing with anyone else, but you are challenging yourself. You don't automatically get the card either. You have to work and train for it.

 

[canismajor]

Yes, a sport:

...
3. diversion; recreation; pleasant pastime.
...


Of course, that definition would include playing cards, too, so you need the additional criterion: "if you can't die from it, it isn't a sport." SCUBA still makes the grade.

Now that's an interesting definition! Does that mean discus throwing isn't a sport? Or Golf?

 

[JCAT]

I define a sport as something you can die from pretty quick, if you make a mistake. Mountainclimbing, race car driving, skydiving, scuba, ect.

Anything else is just a game, like golf or tennis.

my 2psi

 

[canismajor]

Extended range diving can be a competition and test of yourself. You're not competing with anyone else, but you are challenging yourself. You don't automatically get the card either. You have to work and train for it.

Ok... as I brought it up, allow me to redefine. I'm asking about scuba diving in general. Not a specific division or type of it. I'm talking basic recreational diving.

Hope that helps clarify.