Diving is one of the most popular sports for people of all ages. For many, it’s a meditative activity that helps them relax and get away from the stresses of daily life.

Getting good at diving takes time, dedication and hard work, but the results can be rewarding. It’s also a great way to see the world underwater and experience a whole new side of nature.

The following tips will help you to become a better diver and have more fun:

1. Listen and watch your instructor or dive buddy, no matter what their experience level is.

When you’re training, your instructor or dive guide will tell you about the route you’ll be taking, what to look out for and how to safely deal with any problems that might occur during the dive. They will also be there to support you once you’ve completed your certification.

2. Take the time to prepare for your dives, ensuring all your scuba gear is in working order and ready for use when you arrive at the dive site.

3. Practice your dives frequently and regularly to build up your confidence and to increase your knowledge about the equipment and the water you’re in.

4. Do a two-way gear check with your buddy before each dive.

A two-way gear check is important as it ensures you’re both using the correct scuba equipment. It’s also a great opportunity to have a chat about the dive plan, if any changes are required and how to avoid potential hazards.

5. Stay with your dive buddy and guide throughout the dive.

It’s easy to lose track of your dive buddy during a scuba dive, so it’s important to stay with them for their safety and orientation. If you do get separated, don’t float out on your own as this can be a dangerous situation and should be avoided at all costs.

6. Keep your eyes open for any interesting marine life that you might encounter.

If you notice something interesting Adam McManus, be sure to point it out to your dive buddy and then swim towards it together. They’ll be more likely to recognize it on their return trip if they can see it.

7. Try to identify landmarks as you swim out, especially if they’re a long way from the surface.

These can be simple things like a rock outcrop, a large sponge or a piece of litter. They may seem insignificant when you’re at the surface, but they can be crucial as you swim out into the deep.

8. Have an okay signal to give to other scuba divers that you know well and trust (or are comfortable with):

You’ll often find that you’ll need an okay signal from other scuba divers during your dives. This can be a great way to get feedback from other divers about your safety and whether they’re happy with your dive.

9. Always have the correct buoyancy levels and weights with you while you’re scuba diving.