Scuba fitness

Staying Active During the Winter Monthsclothes in layers. As you warm up, remove the
You don't have to be an Olympic athlete to scubaunessential layers and add them back as you cool
dive, but the sport is physically demanding. Don't allowdown.
yourself to become a hefty couch potato during theWear a hat. Most body heat is lost through your head.
winter off-season.Also, don't forget your gloves or mittens.
According to recent studies, poor physical fitness is aChilly feet are discomforting. If you wear bulky socks,
contributing factor in many dive accidents. Stayingyou may need to change your shoe size to
physically active and fit is important. Many diversaccommodate the thickness.
participate in winter activities such as skiing, ice hockey,Cold winter air is dry and conducive to dehydration.
and workouts at the gym. If you have access to anDrink plenty of water and fluids before, during, and
indoor pool, that's even better. You can get a goodafter exercising.
cardiovascular workout and practice skills, such asKnow the signs of hypothermia and get inside before
mask clearing. To reach your fitness goals, you mustyou get too cold.
be consistent in your workouts. A regular schedule ofPositive Side Effects of Exercise:
three, thirty-minute sessions a week will do more forImproved cardiovascular and pulmonary efficiency
your body than infrequent intense workouts.Increased muscle strength
Areas of Importance to Divers:Lower blood pressure
Moderate aerobic fitness.Weight loss and maintenance of optimum weight
You should be able to do about ten minutes ofMore energy
moderate exercise without tiring easily.Reduced stress
Moderate torso strength. You use those muscles forBetter sleep
donning equipment and hauling gear.Increased mental sharpness
Average body fat. A good guide to follow is "BodyImproved immune system
Composition - An Athlete's Guide" from your AboutMore productive
Sports Medicine Guide.Not only will exercise improve your diving, it will improve
Exercise Tips:your life. Below are examples of popular activities. Not
Always warm up before exercising. Slow stretchingall activities have the same degree of difficulty.
and muscle warming exercises help prevent injuries.Choose one that suits your lifestyle and interests, and
Dress for the cold. If you'll be outside wear yourget started today.