If you’ve ever seen scuba divers preparing to dive, one thing you may have noticed is that they fall backwards off the boat into the water. This may seem strange to those who have never dived before, but there is a reason behind it. In this article, we will explore the reasons why scuba divers fall backwards and whether it is safer than diving forwards.
Why do scuba divers start diving backwards?
The reason scuba divers fall backwards when they enter the water is due to the weight of their scuba gear. Scuba gear can be quite heavy and bulky, which can make putting it on and moving around on a boat quite difficult. Moving forwards towards the water’s edge with full scuba gear on can not only be awkward but can also be hazardous as it could result in the diver tripping or losing balance and falling overboard.
Based on a quote from PADI, the world’s leading scuba diving organization, “The weight of the tank often throws divers off balance, and this method allows them to maintain control.” As a result, falling backwards into the water allows divers to maintain control and balance while their gear slowly sinks them into the water.
Falling backwards is not only safer for the diver but also provides a smooth and steady entry into the water to begin the dive. This method also ensures that the diver’s fins are the first part of their body to enter the water, which is crucial for safe entry as this motion helps reduce the risk of injury from rocks, coral, etc. that may be at the shallow water’s surface. When divers jump forward, there is a risk of injury if their hands or weights hit coral or rocks.
Is diving backwards safer than forwards?
As explained earlier, falling backwards into the water is the safest method for scuba divers to enter the water and begin a dive. Diving backwards provides better control and produces a more streamlined entry into the water. Additionally, it reduces the risk of injury as it allows divers to avoid rocks or coral reefs. Many dive sites have shallow water, and an uncontrolled entry could result in a severe injury or even death, which is why mastering this skill is very important.
However, diving forwards may be necessary in certain situations. For example, if a diver needs to exit the water in an emergency, diving forwards may be a better option if there is a nearby underwater object such as a giant stride or a safer part of the deck within reach.
When did scuba divers start diving backwards?
Falling backward into the water has been the preferred entering method for scuba divers for decades. It has been a standard diving technique for so long that it has become a standard requirement in many diving courses worldwide. Although there is no specific date when divers started diving backwards, it is safe to say that it has been a practice for a considerable period.
It is essential to note that divers must master this technique before diving independently or with a team. This technique can be tricky and requires divers to practice this skill repeatedly in a supervised environment until they become competent and confident with the gear and body movements.
Conclusion
Scuba divers’ preferred entry technique is diving backwards, which provides the best control, balance, and streamlined entry into the water. Additionally, diving this way reduces the risk of injury. Scuba diving is an enjoyable and exciting activity, but it can be hazardous if the proper techniques and safety guidelines are not followed. Therefore it is essential to enroll in a comprehensive diving course and learn from qualified instructors before starting the practice.