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There’s actually a lot that goes into becoming a certified SCUBA diver. For example, did you know there’s an age and fitness requirement? Not everyone can go through the certification process to become a diver, but if you’re interested, here’s what goes into becoming a real-life, certified scuba diver, ready to explore the open ocean.
You must be at least 12-years of age and physically fit. Your body must be able to handle the depth and pressure of the ocean as well as carrying the oxygen tank, all while swimming. If you feel you meet these requirements find a place to train.
There are a variety of scuba training center along the coast, naturally, and in Florida to be specific. The Florida Keys are riddled with sunken shipwrecks- great places for first time scuba divers to train and explore. Dive Key West, Tilden’s Scuba Center and Sail Fish Scuba are all a short drive from Key Colony Point. Any of these facilities can help you receive your scuba certification.
You will also have to prove to your new instructor that you are a strong enough swimmer to scuba dive. This test normally consists of swimming consistently for 200 yards and floating for 10 minutes with your head above water. If you pass this test, you can actually begin training, which starts not in the ocean, but in a pool.
A good training center will have a large pool that is accessible to students and trainers frequently. In the pool you will learn how scuba equipment functions as well as how to enter and exit the water safely. Before you enter open water, you will need to know how to operate all your gear as well as the safety precautions that are required to be a scuba diver.
The final step in the certification process is completing four open water dives, under supervision of your trainer of course. Descending to the bottom, ascending to the top as well as clearing your mask are all skills you’ll have to show your trainer to get certified. Upon the granting of your certification you will be given a card that allows you to purchase oxygen tanks. But more importantly, you will be able to freely scuba dive and explore all the ocean has to offer.