Weight / back issues!

[Danigirl]

I do most of my diving in New England using 18 lbs with a 7mm + 3mm vest. I am in pretty good shape but my back is killing me in the water. Walking the 50 ft to the water doesn't bother me but once I get below the surface my back arches and it really hurts! I've had several suggestions, moving 10 lbs to my tank or hanging 10 lbs off my bc... Any suggestions? Dive season is rapidly approaching in Maine!!!

 

[NorthWoodsDiver]

That isn't much lead so I am surprised you have arch issues. There are a great many variables you could play with and some get spendy.

What bcd are you using? does it have trim weight pockets? Have you considered other options like a BP/W? how about some cheapo XS scuba trim weight pockets threaded onto the shoulder straps or tank bands? Do you have 1 tank band or 2? is there any form of rigid plate in your bcd system or is it a soft pack system? are you using a weight belt or integrated weights? Have you taken a buoyancy course or do you have someone experienced around to assist you? Do you know how to frog kick rather than flutter kick?

mess with most any of those things and they could help you potentially but in order to really lend advice we need to know more.

 

[spectrum]

Danigirl

I'll give another vote for the Weight & Trim harness. On land it will carry the weight better. In the water it will let you carry you weight a little lower so it's on your hips some instead of pulling down on the small of your back..

If you are diving aluminum cylinders you should also consider switching to HP steel. that will do a lot to lighten your burden. More here.

Dive season has arrived!

Pete

 

[tc]

What Pete said.

They are very comfortable.