Dive Training Blogs
Skill-Building Scuba Games
By Jesse Iacono
Contributors: Mark Phillips, Thomas Johnson, Christopher Richardson, Dillon Waters
Scuba divers are a fun-loving group of individuals; that’s the point of the activity! Most divers understand the importance of keeping their skill set fresh, but not everyone gravitates towards the idea of running through skill circuits during their precious underwater time. Skill-building games can be used by classes and certified buddy teams alike to bring some more fun into the process. Building in time for practice is key for every diver, so try some of these on your next dive, or jump in the pool with a buddy in between expeditions to keep yourself sharp.
GAME TIME
Hula Hoops
Rules:
Hula hoops are attached to weights by varying lengths of line to make them float at different depths. Divers must swim through the hoop without any part of their body or equipment touching it.
Skills:
Awareness – the diver becomes aware of their enlarged profile due to scuba equipment and realizes the space and position their body/equipment takes in the environment.
Buoyancy – the diver uses their breath to fine-tune their buoyancy as they pass through the obstacle.
Variations:
Different shapes can be made from pvc tubing.
Different sizes of hula hoops can be used.
Divers swim through the hoops performing different maneuvers – corkscrew spin, different fin kicks, etc.
Weight Hot Potato
Rules:
Weights of varying sizes are brought to the bottom. Divers arrange in a line or circle, the first diver picks up a weight, adjusts their buoyancy, and then hands the weight off to the next diver. As the weight moves down the line, the donating and receiving divers must adjust their buoyancy to stay neutral.
Skills:
Buoyancy – the diver adjusts to neutral buoyancy for varying amounts of weight and reacts quickly to sudden changes in buoyancy.
Control – the diver stays in formation while remaining neutral and stationary.
Task Loading – the diver’s other skills must be second nature as they are making quick adjustments.
Variations:
Each time a weight is handed off, another is picked up, giving every diver in the formation a different weight adjustment.
If a diver rises or sinks past a determined threshold, they are penalized or removed until one winner remains.
Frisbee/Torpedo
Rules:
An underwater frisbee or torpedo is passed from diver to diver while remaining neutrally buoyant.
Skills:
Buoyancy – the diver stays neutral and adjusts as necessary to catch the object.
Task Loading – the diver equalizes ears and buoyancy while chasing the object to different depths.
Variations:
The object is purposefully thrown out of reach, forcing the diver to chase it towards particular parts of the environment.
Underwater Football – teams must work together to deliver the object to the “end zone.” Touching the bottom results in a penalty and turnover of the object to the other team.
Ping Pong Balls
Rules:
Ping pong balls are brought under shallow water and held under each diver’s hands, either flat or slightly cupped downward, as they remain neutrally buoyant.
Skills:
Buoyancy – the diver primarily uses their breath for buoyancy adjustments due to the difficulty of operating their inflator/deflator with their hands occupied.
Use of Hands – the diver keeps their hands and arms still and in front of them to maintain control of the ping pong balls.
Variations:
Penalty or disqualification for any diver who loses a ball or closes their hand around it.
Divers navigate through an obstacle course while maintaining the ping pong balls.
Divers perform various kicks and change depths while maintaining the ping pong balls.
Divers hold a ping pong ball under an overturned spoon.
Push of War
Rules:
Two divers, either at the surface or underwater, face each other while positioned horizontally and link hands. The divers then kick to push towards each other and must push the other diver to the end of the pool or out of bounds to win.
Skills:
Fin Kicks – the diver uses efficient and powerful finning techniques to overpower the other diver.
Variations:
Winners of each round can take on new competitors until one pusher remains as victor.
A certain fin kick can be specified for both divers to use.
Fish Safari
Rules:
Fish shapes are cut out of old neoprene and attached to weights with line. Divers use underwater cameras to take pictures or videos of the targets.
Skills:
Photography – the diver uses a variety of techniques to build familiarity with the camera and explore new photo/video perspectives.
Variations:
Points awarded to best lighting, angle, grouping, etc.
Fish Hunt – divers bring pole spears and practice spearing fish.
Neutral Tic Tac Toe
Rules:
A slate or set of wet notes is passed between divers to play tic tac toe while neutrally buoyant.
Skills:
Buoyancy – the diver maintains neutral buoyancy while completing the exercise.
Task Loading – neutral buoyancy and other core skills become second nature as the diver works through problems and shifts their focus away from the surrounding environment.
Variations:
Change the game to another “pen and paper” style game.
Administer tests or problems with points off for losses of buoyancy control.
Bubble Rings
Rules:
Divers lay on the bottom and blow puffs of gas out of their mouth to try to make bubble rings that expand as they rise towards the surface.
Skills:
Regulator – the diver removes, replaces, and clears their regulator frequently.
Mask – due to breaks in the mask seal created by moving their face to blow the rings, the diver’s mask can partially fill with water and must be cleared.
Variations:
Divers remain neutrally buoyant while blowing vertical bubble rings.
Divers blow horizontal bubble rings by using hand movement to create a forward-moving vortex which traps gas expelled from the diver’s mouth or exhaust valve.
Gear Mess-up
Rules:
A scuba rig (tank, BC, regulator) is assembled incorrectly, having an agreed upon number of errors. The diver who assembles the equipment then puts it on and allows the other players to inspect them as if they were in the buddy check process for a specified amount of time. The other players must work together to identify all errors in the setup.
Skills:
Buddy Awareness – the diver shifts their focus to their buddy’s equipment and recognizes the amount of problems that can occur before entering in the water as well as the benefit of having their gear checked over by a buddy.
Equipment Familiarity – the diver familiarizes themselves with all parts of the equipment as well as problem identification and correction.
Variations:
Multiple rounds which present increasingly difficult errors to identify.
Teams write down issues and compete to get the most correct answers.
Multiple sets of gear are assembled, and the players move from station to station to find errors.
Obstacle Course
Rules:
Divers must navigate through a course that presents physical obstacles, stations that prompt certain activities, or both.
Skills:
The skills built from this game can vary greatly due to the opportunity to build just about anything into it. It can be as simple as moving through obstacles or as complex as combining all the games in this article.
Variations:
The variations are endless with this game and can apply to any level of skill – get creative!
To find out more about International Training, visit www.tdisdi.com.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
By Marissa Eckert
What are the requirements to start cave diving? What do I need to do to be prepared for cave training? These are all questions I get asked by so many potential students. There are many options when coming up with an answer. The first option, and the easiest, would be to go the training agency website and look up the requirements to take the class. However, this leaves a lot open for interpretation and doesn’t mean you will necessarily be ready. Like anything, there always needs to be minimum requirements. But is that enough? Maybe for some people it is, but for most people it’s not.
So, what are the requirements?
TDI breaks cave training down into three different levels. Those levels are cavern, intro to cave, and full cave. To start cavern the requirements state that you must be 18 years old or 15 years old with parental consent, have an Open Water Certification, and a minimum of 25 logged dives. This doesn’t sound like much. So, what do I tell my students when they ask me? First, I find out if they are only interested in cavern or if they are interested in potentially progressing into cave diving. If they are interested in progressing into cave diving, I always strongly suggest they get comfortable with a dual configuration first. This configuration can be side mount, back-mounted doubles, or even a rebreather. The main things I tell everyone they need to have down are buoyancy, good trim position, the ability to hover in place motionless without moving their hands or feet, and good overall awareness. This means awareness of oneself and what your body and equipment are doing, but also total awareness of what is going on around you.
So, what does all this mean?
Many times I’ve had students show up thinking they had all these things mastered only to quickly realize they have a long way to go. Which by the way, is okay! After all, we all start somewhere and progress at different paces. The most important thing is to be open to feedback. But there are also ways to prepare yourself better. First and foremost, when starting down this route it is critical to find a good instructor. Take time to look up instructors, ask questions, interview them, look at their past students, look at what type of diving they are doing, and most importantly ask questions! Find out what techniques they use during class.
I have found that video recording students when they are struggling with something gives them a great perspective to see what they are doing wrong and helps them visualize and correct it. Does the instructor look good as a diver? Whether you like social media or not, the internet can be a great place for research. When looking at a diver they should look in trim, almost like they are laying flat on a table. In videos are they finning with their hands? Are their feet constantly moving? Are there things dangling below their body? All equipment and hoses should be extremely clean and contoured to the body.
The most important question to always ask during training is WHY? There should always be a why behind everything we do. And it should never just be because I said so. Make sure the instructor knows why they are telling you to do something a particular way. Everyone can always learn new ways of doing things, instructors included.
How can you truly prepare yourself?
A good idea is to record video of yourself or have a friend record you while diving. Send it to your instructor ahead of time, so they can give you feedback and let you know if there are things you need to work on. There is no certain number of years to be diving, or a certain number of dives to have, that says yes you will be ready. Every individual learns at a different pace. If a class is only offered in a minimum number of days with a maximum number of students allowed, be aware that this means less time practicing each skill. For this reason, you might be better suited doing one-on-one training or having a regular buddy take the class with you. This ensures you are comfortable with each other and familiar with each other’s habits in and out of the water, and that you get along!
The most important thing of all is to come to class with an open mind, a readiness to learn, and no concern with whether you will receive a card, but with a concern that you will learn to be a better, safer, more competent diver. I always tell my students safety is the number one most important thing in cave diving, but fun is a close second! Sometimes, it may not feel fun. Stop and ask yourself does this instructor have your best interests at heart? I know I certainly do. I want to go to sleep each night knowing that I gave my students as much knowledge as possible to make them safe and thoughtful cave divers.
With proper training, proper equipment, proper experience, and a proper attitude I think cave diving can be done very safely. I often joke that the most dangerous thing about cave diving is driving to the dive site!
To find out more about International Training, visit www.tdisdi.com.
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