Dive Training Blogs

Sea Legs and how to get them

Published

6 years ago

May 24, 2019

By Gemma Smith

Most of us have been there at some point in our diving journey. I know that I have, on more occasions than I would like to remember! First comes the initial excitement of going out for an awesome boat dive. Your gear is prepped and loaded on board, your buddies are ready, you start motoring out…and then it starts. The slight upset feeling in the stomach, followed by sensations of cold sweats. and then, often, by general misery. Oh yes, motion sickness (also known as sea-sickness or ‘Mal de mer’) is no laughing matter.

It can run the whole range of outcomes, from being mildly unpleasant to being utterly disabling. I know that at the start of my diving career that I missed so many dives when out on a boat in the choppy waters of the English Channel. The problem is, there is so much amazing diving to be done from boats! I didn’t want to give that up. Over the years I have tried and tested various methods that can lessen the effects of motion sickness, and in this article, I want to look at some of the causes of seasickness, as well as what you can do to prevent it.

So what is motion sickness?

In simple terms, motion sickness is a very common disturbance of the inner ear due to a repeated motion. Several factors in the body all work together to ultimately make you feel less than your best. It’s a phenomenon that involves your vestibular system (this is the twists and turns within your inner ear, and it plays an important part in the control of your equilibrium), your cerebellum (a part of the human brain that has many jobs, but specifically in this instance, it controls balance), the gastrointestinal tract, and the nerve connections between the inner ears and the eyes. The sickness is caused by a mismatch of information received from several sources.

Anyone can develop motion sickness. It is, however, true that different people often have a different level of tolerance. We see motion sickness all the time in kids, but, interestingly, pregnant women, and people who have a history of migraines are all more likely to suffer from it. Then, of course, there’s us: divers who like to go boat diving, even when our bodies don’t quite have our sea legs sorted yet.

What are the symptoms we can look out for then?

Oh, we have a whole range of possible effects of seasickness:

Nausea
Vomiting
Often a marked paleness of the face (pallor)
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Sweating, often cold sweats
An overall feeling of discomfort
Just not feeling well (a feeling of malaise)

So how can we prevent (or at least lessen) the effects of sea-sickness?

I’ve found that one of the key things that works for me is avoiding certain foods and drinks before I go boat diving. Lay off the alcohol the night before, as this will only dehydrate you. I’ve found that skipping my morning milky coffee also works wonders. Those with a sensitive stomach may find that leaving out all dairy products that morning will help. Heavy, spicy, or greasy foods are often best-avoided too. With that being said, it is important to not go out on an empty stomach. Have simple or bland meals, eat little and often, and stay hydrated! Dry and plain crackers are a good choice. Sometimes it is worth trying ginger tea, or even nibbling a little bit of ginger. Ginger is a well-known and trusted natural remedy for motion sickness. Peppermint tea has a similar calming effect on the stomach. Some people also find that taking small sips of a carbonated drink will help.
Make sure you are well rested from the night before. Tempting as it is to stay up late and enjoy the social side of your dive trip, it won’t help you feel better the following morning. Being fresh for diving will markedly lessen your susceptibility to feeling unwell when out on the boat.
Get some fresh air. Although all you may sometimes want is to hide away in the cabin, especially when the weather just isn’t that great, it is one of the worst things you can do. Get out on the deck and let the fresh air do its healing work. Just as long as you stay well away from the diesel fumes from the engine, it will make a world of difference. It is also worth thinking about your position on the boat. Oftentimes the middle of the boat will be the most stable, especially if seas start getting rough. Also, when you’re on the boat, don’t get overheated. Keep cool and stay under a sunshade if necessary. Try and avoid putting your exposure protection suit over your head, whether that be a wet or drysuit, until absolutely necessary. This is especially true if your suit has a particularly snug neck seal.
Try looking at the horizon. Pick a point, and focus on it. Look out so your eyes can register the same type of movement changes that your ears are reporting. It’s worth making the effort to avoid reading or checking your phone, reading a book, or looking at instruments or gauges too much. It will only add to your body’s conflicting signals. This is also why it is a smart move to have all dive gear ready to go beforehand, so you aren’t having to build your dive set more than needed on a rocking and rolling boat.
Think about applying some pressure. Sea-bands have been around for years. Basically, it is an elasticised wristband. There is a small stud on the band which applies pressure over the Nei-Kuan point (located within tissue about 3 centimetres above the wrist joint). The Nei-Kuan point is thought to have some control of nausea and vomiting. To be most effective it is important that a band is worn on each wrist, and ideally put on before the start of the journey. Many people swear by them, but that being said, there are currently no controlled trials on this technique.
There are lots of medications on the market for helping with motion sickness. Make sure you do your research before picking one at random, though. Some can have side effects not compatible with diving. I personally try and avoid them, but make sure you contact a diving doctor or do some research on what DAN recommends before you make the decision to use medication.
Remember, as disappointing as it is to miss a dive if you are feeling really unwell, don’t think that getting in the water is always the best idea. While the mild nausea that you have on the boat may lessen when in the water, it will take time. It’s not fair to either yourself or your buddies to put them in the position where the dive needs to be called. While vomiting underwater is possible, it is not something you should ever knowingly take a chance on. Especially in the less experienced divers, it may cause confusion and panic. That’s how dive accidents happen.

These are just some of the many possibilities for limiting your reaction to motion sickness. Unfortunately, there is no one magic cure for ‘Mal de mer’. What works on one dive may not work at all on a subsequent dive. The important thing is to plan ahead, especially if you know you are prone to feeling queasy anyway. Your preparations and possible behaviour from the night before can really have an impact on how much you enjoy your following day of diving.

It is also worth pointing out that you have to be aware that what you believe may be seasickness is possibly hiding other conditions. Feeling unwell before the dive may be quite normal for you, but monitor yourself if you start feeling less than great when you surface. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or generally unwell, it is possible that it is a sign of decompression sickness, particularly related to the central nervous system or a vestibular problem. It’s important to remember that there is nothing to be embarrassed about if you are sick. It’s a symptom that most seafarers will have suffered from at some point in the past, the present, or even the future! Don’t laugh it off. Stay aware and focused, and most importantly of all, stay safe.

To find out more about International Training, visit www.tdisdi.com.

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International Training

From its humble beginning in 1994 to today, the group of training agencies Scuba Diving International (SDI), Technical Diving International (TDI), and Emergency Response Diving International (ERDI) form one of the largest diving certification agencies in the World – International Training. With 24 Regional Offices servicing more than 100 countries, the company today far exceeds the original vision the founders had when they conceived the idea on a napkin, sitting at a kitchen table in the early 1990’s.

Blogs

Jeff Goodman Launches Underwater Moviemaker Course with NovoScuba

Published

1 week ago

December 9, 2024

Team Scubaverse

Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces

NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.

Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking

Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:

“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.

A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”

About NovoScuba

Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.

With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.

Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!

Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.

EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba

NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!

The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.

NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.

underwater videography course

A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission

NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.

NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.

Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration

NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.

Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.

underwater videography course

NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.

Quality Training at a Great Price

NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.

Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity

At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.

Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success

NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.

underwater videography course

Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload

Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.

Crossover Made Easy

For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.

Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership

NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:

Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.

underwater videography course

Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement

NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.

Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth

At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.

Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.

Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution

Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.

For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.