There’s nothing like the immensity of wonders that lies in the ocean. For anyone who may be interested in exploring what’s underwater, enrolling in scuba classes is one of the most enriching activities you can do for yourself. If you are feeling both curious and daunted at the prospect, here are some intriguing details on what to expect.

What to Know About Scuba Classes

1. You Don’t Have to Be the Best Swimmer

Despite how counterintuitive it may seem, scuba diving doesn’t require a broad range of swimming skills. Of course, some level is involved but it doesn’t utilize the same kinds of upper body work found in moves like a butterfly stroke or backstroke. If you’re not proficient in swimming, don’t let that discourage you.

2. There’s So Much to Learn

The amount of equipment alone is complicated for anyone unfamiliar with scuba diving. From terminology to usage, there’s quite a bit to process. Even then, there are other lessons to learn, such as hand signals and diver protocol.

3. The Beginning of Your Education Is on Land

As eager as you may be to head underwater, the first lessons are dry. This is for maximum safety. In addition to discussing the above issues, instructors also work to prepare you for some new sensations you’ll be experiencing such as buoyancy and resistance.

4. Your Vision Is Limited

Not only will the scuba mask obscure your peripheral vision, but the nature of water also dramatically affects how things appear. Color isn’t quite the same; water absorbs the wavelengths of the light so that those with the longest wavelengths, such as red, are the first to go. Water also makes people and sea life look much larger than they are, which is difficult for your depth perception.

5. You Can Take Your Time

There’s no reason to rush through scuba classes; if you feel unsure about something, never hesitate to ask an instructor! As you gain more experience, your patience will remain a virtue; go as slow as you need to through the process.

If you’re in Henrietta, NY, and searching for scuba classes taught by experienced, certified instructors, call the Aquatic Center of Rochester today at (585) 334-1670. This 5-star instructor development training facility has been educating students for more than 30 years. For complete beginners, consider their private instruction; for those who are more experienced, schedule an open water diver course. Aside from scuba, they also offer snorkeling lessons. To learn more, visit their website and follow them on Facebook.