How does fitness level effect ongasing and offgasing at depth?

[chriswspencer]

As all of us have different bodies defined by fitness levels, etc. How do the different body types relate to dive tables? Should someone with high blood pressure or someone who is obese use tables more conservatively? Does obesity increase the possibility of getting "bent". There's a lot here, but I like to start to get a grasp on these physiological answers.

In summary: How does one's body type relate to how they are effected by dissolved gases in their body during and after dives?

[thor]

Check out this link

http://scuba-doc.com/obesity.html

[CompuDude]

The better shape you are in, the more efficient your cardiovascular is. The more efficiently your heart moves blood through the veins, and the more efficiently the lungs bring in and expel air, the more gas is exchanged and more nitrogen is pulled out of your system as you off-gas.

Yes, being in good shape definitely reduces your risks of DCS. Likewise, being out of shape does increase your risk, and you would be well advised not to push the limits (not a good idea any time, but especially not a good idea when you're out of shape.).

Pounding hearts increase the risk of bubble formation, and panting and gasping for air actually reduces the amount of air exchanged, leading to CO2 buildup and oxygen starvation due to the less-efficient, shallow breaths not being able to effectively move the CO2 (and Nitrogen) out of the dead air spaces in your lungs, trachea, sinus cavities and regulator.

[chriswspencer]

thanks guys.

[Buoyant1]

According to the "standards" I'm "obese"...Personally, I'm probably in better shape than most! I weigh around 300 lbs, I spend at least 3-4 days at the gym each week (30 minutes of hard cardio, weight training etc.) I dive as often as I can, and use Nitrox becauce since I'm "overweight" and over 40, I think that gives me a better chance to avoid a DCS hit.

I don't go "conserative" with my tables, I dive my computer and back up with the Nitrox tables.

My best guess is if you are in relatively good shape, don't stress over it. If you are OUT of shape...do something about it...you'll thank yourself!

[chriswspencer]

For those who are extremely fit. Are they generally physically able to push the tables more? What is the median fitness level at which the tables were produced?

[Buoyant1]

Originally Posted by chriswspencer

For those who are extremely fit. Are they generally physically able to push the tables more? What is the median fitness level at which the tables were produced?

I've heard that the original Navy tables were set for someone on extreme physical condition. I can't speak for how the PADI, NAUI etc. tables are set.

It almost seems that you are in decent shape and trying to over blow the tables?!?!

IF you're worried about pushing your NDL's with a square profile, and want to maximize your time, learn "the wheel" or get a computer.

But be safe...this isn't something to ____ with

[CompuDude]

Originally Posted by chriswspencer

For those who are extremely fit. Are they generally physically able to push the tables more? What is the median fitness level at which the tables were produced?

Anyone can push tables. And they may or may not get bent, regardless of how good or bad their shape is.

Also, anyone can dive well within the limits and still get bent.

It's not an exact science, so don't treat it like there's a magic line, because there's not. And worse, what works fine one day can get you bent another. Test after test has shown this.

Don't push the tables. If you want more bottom time, take Buoyant1's suggestion and get a computer ... and start using Nitrox ... but that's as far as anything should ever be "pushed".

[Buoyant1]

Originally Posted by CompuDude

Anyone can push tables. And they may or may not get bent, regardless of how good or bad their shape is.

Also, anyone can dive well within the limits and still get bent.

It's not an exact science, so don't treat it like there's a magic line, because there's not. And worse, what works fine one day can get you bent another. Test after test has shown this.

Don't push the tables. If you want more bottom time, take Buoyant1's suggestion and get a computer ... and start using Nitrox ... but that's as far as anything should ever be "pushed".

Exactly! Ever hear the phrase "undeserved hit"? That means that you did everything right, went by the tables, did the conservative thing, and STILL took a DCS hit!

By the same token, there are people that have gone to depths deeper than they either expected, wanted, or just figured WTF? and didn't have a "scratch" so it's not anything that you can count upon.

[namabiru]

Originally Posted by Buoyant1

According to the "standards" I'm "obese"...Personally, I'm probably in better shape than most!

You know, I've often found the same thing. People who are dismissed as "fat" are frequently in decent physical condition. It's almost like there should be two standards-- genetically-large people, and 'regular' people.