Breathing underwater. Exploring coral reefs. Swimming through shipwrecks. It’s no wonder that scuba—the acronym for Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus—is one of the world’s most popular recreational activities. And while scuba is definitely not for everyone, if you’re willing to invest the time, money and effort into your training, it can be an amazing experience.

To scuba, you need to have an in-depth understanding of marine science and physics—along with some key equipment, including a mask, snorkel, fins and BCD (buoyancy control device). You also need to know what to do in an emergency. That’s why a good dive instructor is so important. They’ll teach you the technical and safety aspects of diving while giving you the confidence to explore and enjoy the underwater world.

In addition, there are a variety of scuba courses and certifications, from beginner to professional, that can be tailored for people with different abilities and needs. The PADI Open Water course, for example, is performance-based and offers flexible learning options like eLearning to enable you to meet the required performance standards at your own pace.

It’s also important for scuba divers to understand and avoid common hazards, such as decompression sickness, nitrogen narcosis and barotrauma. This requires following basic dive protocols, such as never diving alone and regularly checking and maintaining their equipment. It also means understanding the factors that contribute to decompression sickness and knowing how to ascend safely. And finally, it means being aware of the potential effects of sunburn and seasickness.