Scuba, which stands for self contained underwater breathing apparatus, is a popular recreational activity. It is an excellent exercise for improving your breathing techniques and can even reduce stress. You can also explore interesting marine features such as shipwrecks and coral reefs during a scuba dive. Some scuba divers also collect scientific data or participate in conservation efforts, depending on the purpose of their dive.

SCUBA is a complex piece of equipment that includes a diving suit, air supply and scuba tanks. It is often used for recreational activities, such as exploring underwater caves and swimming with fish in their natural habitat. It is also employed in a variety of professional applications, including underwater construction, exploration for oil and gas, and military diving operations.

A scuba emergency is an incident that could lead to death or severe injury if not resolved immediately. The most common scuba emergency is running out of breathing gas under water, which can be prevented by having an alternate air source available or by sharing oxygen with a buddy diver.

The PADI Open Water Diver course is performance-based and can be completed in just three or four days with flexible learning options like eLearning. The course teaches you 24 key skills that allow you to enjoy safe and fun dives with confidence. It includes Avelo training, which allows you to save up to 30% of your air consumption and extend your bottom time. You will learn how to manage your buoyancy and control your weight systems, as well as learn about the physics of diving and basic dive safety procedures.