Is it really that important for me, as a scuba diver, to be in good shape? Is diving a sport or just a recreational activity? A debate could be made for both sides, however, either way, the answer is YES. You should be in the best possible physical shape you can if you are an active scuba diver.
There are, of course, many reasons to stay in good shape. However, there are a few specific reasons why being a fit diver is important.
1. Nitrogen loves fat
Nitrogen is absorbed by fat molecules much easier than any other part of your body. People who are overweight are more susceptible to decompression sickness.
2. Better air consumption
The better shape your lungs are in, the less they have to work to swim through the water; therefore, the less air you will consume during your dive.
3. Less stressed
Research shows that those who are physically active and get regular exercise handle stress better. This will make you a calmer and more confident driver.
4. Physical strength
Let's face it; diving is a physically demanding sport. Those tanks aren't going to lift themselves. Carrying tanks back-and-forth, lifting weights around, putting on a full set of gear and walking down the beach to the water or the back of the boat uses a lot of muscle. The more physically healthy you are, the easier this will be, and the less stressful it will be for you both mentally and physically.
OK, now you know you need to be somewhat physically fit to be a good diver. So what kind of exercises should you do? Here is a list of our favorites that can be done easily at home. No need to run out and joining a gym or buy a bunch of equipment.
Aerobic Exercise:
If you're just starting out exercising, a good goal would be to do at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular or aerobic exercise at least three times a week. Building up to 30-60 minutes five days a week. Good aerobic exercise includes swimming, walking, jogging, elliptical Machine, and rowing.
Muscular Strengthening:
You should only be strength training the same group of muscles every other day. This gives the muscles a chance to rebuild themselves and for you to get stronger. Here are our favorite strength training exercises that do not require weights:
Upper Body:
Push-ups, tricep push-ups (bring your arms in closer to your body and rotate your hands outward) and tricep-dips.
Lower Body:
Squats, lunges and seated wall sits.
Abs:
Leg lifts (legs together and lift from the floor to vertical position on your back), bicycle crunches, seated ab twist (sit on your bottom, knees bent and toes slightly off the floor, twisting and touching fingertips to floor on either side of your body), and good 'ol crunches.
Stretching:
Now that we've improved your body cardiovascularly and improved strength, let's not forget about keeping yourself flexible. Stretching is super important to relieve stress, and keep our bodies moving through life easier, especially the older we get! Yoga is a great way to improve on full body flexibility, but if you don't have the time then simply focusing on stretching your main muscle groups (calfs, quads, hamstrings, glutes, and arms) will be enough to make a big difference.
If you're new to this whole exercise thing, or have fallen off the wagon for quite some time, don't fret. Of course, you should consult with your physician before starting off any new exercise routine. Once you do, take it slow, and just start with one thing at a time. You will see that your body will adjust quickly and will grow to love it! Your hard work will pay off when you're diving under the water and feeling great! Of course, you should consult with your physician before starting off any new exercise routine.
