How important is it to be fit as a Diver?

[Steve Scuba]

I'd say it's a huge benefit. I'm a runner, and though I'm still in my cert classes, I seem to use a lot less air than the other students.

[ccarter]

Originally Posted by Steve Scuba

I'd say it's a huge benefit. I'm a runner, and though I'm still in my cert classes, I seem to use a lot less air than the other students.

I noticed that too.. I didn't have as hard of a time on the swims either.

[Tableleg]

I got certified before my current level of fitness. the 100 yard swim was alright for about the first 25 yards. The next 75 were filled with thoughts of "Oh please, kill me now..."

Since then, I can go about 1000 before wanting to give up.

[kingfish]

I have noticed that it has become alot easier to carry the gear around since i have become fitter.
Simple things like climbing up the ladder of the boat when getting out of the water and even kneeling down to wash the mask out with the gear on have become alot easier.
I would find myself very puffed after a relatively short walk with the gear on.
I am so glad i have made the effort to get fitter.


Jas.

[BobbyWombat]

It is really important that you be in shape" Not perfect...but reasonably healthy.

[CrzyJay456]

i vote for some. i dont think you need to be all fit and buff, but i think you need to be able to swim in currents on the surface, and you need to be healthy. im more for healthy than fit.

[scuba Widow]

As a non diver I would think that you would have to have some level of fitness to be a diver just as you should for any exercise that you take part in.

[highdesert]

Originally Posted by Rascal1933

Do you guy's think being fit,helps reduce your Air consumption at all?

If "being fit" means engaging in aerobic work that increases your oxygen uptake (VO2), then there's no argument. I've been going harder on the road bike in advance of an upcoming big-dollar, blowout dive trip to Indonesia. I want every minute out of a tank I can get, and I know from experience and the science that my hours of aerobic work will mean time back out of every tank.

[bubble-head]

I believe being fit is very important for diving. Both cardio and core strength benefit divers. I have been very appreciative of my fitness level when I've encountered some strong currents and when climbing back onboard the boat. One thing I've learned over the years is that when a difficult situation arises, it's when you are at your weakest, physically and mentally. I also hope that being fit will allow me to dive at an older age.

[Bill22]

Originally Posted by highdesert

If "being fit" means engaging in aerobic work that increases your oxygen uptake (VO2), then there's no argument. I've been going harder on the road bike in advance of an upcoming big-dollar, blowout dive trip to Indonesia. I want every minute out of a tank I can get, and I know from experience and the science that my hours of aerobic work will mean time back out of every tank.

Originally Posted by bubble-head

I believe being fit is very important for diving. Both cardio and core strength benefit divers. I have been very appreciative of my fitness level when I've encountered some strong currents and when climbing back onboard the boat. One thing I've learned over the years is that when a difficult situation arises, it's when you are at your weakest, physically and mentally. I also hope that being fit will allow me to dive at an older age.

I've been working steadily on my fitness level for the same reasons. I divide my aerobic workouts between the pool and the elliptical. I feel a LOT better in the water when I'm diving now. I have a pretty ambitious dive schedule set up for my upcoming Philippines trip. I know without my workouts it would be difficult to complete the number of dives I have planned.

Sometimes things like currents can be unpredicatble. If you get into a situation having the fitness to handle it can be the difference between having an "interesting" story to tell and a tragedy.

I'll be 50 my next birthday... not old, but definetly I'm noticing some changes. I to hope to be diving for many years to come and I know that maintaining my fitness levels is the key to that.