There are a number of different agencies around the world that offer scuba training to divers. These agencies include PADI, NAUI, SSI, GUE and IANTD to name but a few. Many divers think of training as a one time event necessary to becoming certified. What many divers do not realize is the value of training; more importantly, ongoing training. Training is not only essential to diving safely, but really a stepping stone to becoming more comfortable in this new environment, and taking your diving to a new level of excitement and satisfaction.

Most divers remember their first dive training experience. Whether that course happened recently at a resort in Mexico or 20 years ago on a LiveAboard at the Great Barrier Reef. Divers never forget that sense of accomplishment when they breathe underwater for the first time, or the sensation of the sights and sounds in the new world they have just discovered. But what divers may forget is the importance of safety when diving.

Most dive accidents can be prevented by keeping familiar with dive protocols, knowing your limits and most importantly, diving within those limits. Stepping outside a diver’s comfort zone is a recipe for a dive accident. Thankfully, agencies like the ones listed above provide training to add experience and dive procedures for environments foreign to new divers.

Environments and training vary between your first open water certification and the likes of deep diving, nitrox dive training (gas with greater than 21% oxygen), trimix dive training (gas consisting of both oxygen, nitrogen, and helium), cave diving, wreck diving, technical diving, dive master, and rescue diving. Formal training is the first step in becoming a safe and confident diver. However the most important type of training that should play a major role in the development of a diver is practice.

Practicing dive skills and protocols in a non-threatening and comfortable environment will add to the enjoyment of diving and make a diver more proficient and relaxed underwater. Knowledge and relaxation are critical elements to the success of enjoying your dives to the fullest and more importantly diving safely.

We at ReserveDiving.com encourage all divers to stay on top of their skills, plan your dives and most importantly, Dive Safe.