Introduction To Scuba

An introduction to scuba is to know three things, scuba diving has become very popular among individuals as well as families, diving is easy and most of all fun. It is noted that scuba diving is gaining popularity as a top outdoor recreation activity.

It is thought that since the majority of the earth’s surface is covered by water, the mystery of what lies underneath is a wonder world to be discovered. Scuba diving brings imagination from prehistory, mythological monsters, science fiction and the most recent Hollywood movies.

The introduction to scuba has to begin with the history. Underwater exploration truly began almost three centuries ago, when diving bells and large sealed suits were used. It has only been in the last 40 years that advances in technology has allowed divers to explore the underwater world safely and comfortably, and has become a luxury that when first began was unthinkable for the average person.

The self-contained underwater breathing apparatus, or SCUBA was first engineered in the 1930s, they were inefficient and clunky. Jacques Cousteau developed the Aqua lung in the last 1940’s; this would lead the way to the sport now known as scuba diving.
An introduction to scuba would not be complete with out understanding what the professionals are learning and who the best to learn from is. In 1960 the National Association of Underwater Instructors was formed in order to regulate and teach scuba diving safety for this new sport. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors was formed in 1967. Through the 70s, 80s and 90s, technology advanced to the point where scuba diving is available to almost anyone, with the best in equipment, that is lightweight and easy to use.

Most areas where scuba diving is available, there are dive shops to rent tanks, find guided tours, learn from master divers or just take a boat out for the day.

While straight scuba diving may be what most people think of, an introduction to scuba diving will show that there are several different types of diving available. For the adventurous types, cave diving or wreck diving will bring unexpected wonder that one may not normally see. Rescue diving, of course if for those who have the desire to help others or are part of a fire department or police department. Some people will prefer to dive in colder water, while some will dive only the warm water of the Caribbean. No matter the type of dive or place to dive, scuba diving is a fun time.