Learning SCUBA at 50?

[WillyMcFly]

All,

I've loved SCUBA and the underwater world since my childhood days watching the Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau. However I never found the time to learn. Seeing Jacques Cousteau diving at 80 was always a great inspiration to me to feel confident I could eventually learn. Well, an opportunity has arisen for me learn. My plan is to take my classroom and pool lessons here in Virginia and then go to Florida for my OW dives. My main concern is that I haven't done much swimming in several years and am not as active as I used to be. I just wanted to get other diver's opinions and recommendations on how best to prepare oneself for the physical challenges of diving. Are there any issues with which I should concern myself before I begin. I really want to learn to dive but I certainly don't want to take any unnecessary risks. In reality I don't think I will ever make deep dives. I really just want to experience the underwater world and I think there are many wonderful sites at 30 feet or less. Thanks in advance for any advice.

Willy

[ScubaSteve]

Welcome to the board and the sport Willy. I think you have done good by coming here but I do not think you are in for much trouble. I know several divers that certified after 50 and they did just fine. The physical requirements for OW are pretty basic and will likely be no issue. The skills are an ageless thing.....you are either capable or not (meaning you need to work on it).

Talk to your instructor, ask lots of questions ahead of time (including, as you have done, here on ScubaBoard) but as long as you are in reasonable shape then you will do fine. Perhaps ask if you can acquire your learning material ahead of time so you can begin reading and understanding what will be expected. Some Instructors do things a little differently so I do stress the need to communicate with your soon to be instructor. Just go slowly and make sure that you master the skills. Do not let anybody fast track you.....you are the only one that loses then.

[WillyMcFly]

Thanks for your reply Steve. It's great advice. As long as I feel comfortable that I am not pushing myself beyond my physical capabilities I think I will be fine. My main concern is probably just getting over the nervousness of being in the open water. I hope once I'm in the water and moving around it will pass.

[dengle-maine]

If you're in good health and are comfortable in the water...why not? I was certified at 50.I had talked about doing it for years until my wife finally signed me up. No more excuses!My only regret is I didn't do it years ago.Hopefully you'll have a good instructor and you can enjoy the process.Have fun Willy, and welcome to the club.

[ScubaSteve]

Those concerns are normal and for many I think they pass for most once they realize how beautiful it is under there (even a pool ;)). But again, keep talking to your instructor. If you want a bit more time on a given skill, talk to them. A good instructor will do their best to accommodate their student. The more time you can spend underwater with your instructor, the more confident you are likely to become. Just do not rush.....comfortable and skilled is the goal. Go in smart and come out a diver :thumb:

[dkktsunami]

Recreational diving does not really require athleticism. It does, however, require comfort in the water and reasonably good health. One of the most frequent causes of death in scuba is old guys, out of shape, having a problem (a little current, a surface swim, a buoyancy issue, etc.) and then having a heart attack dealing with a little bit of physical stress. If you are healthy and fairly comfortable in the water scuba can give you a whole new lease on life. I was almost 57 when I did basic OW and am an active diver at nearly 66 (200+ dives each year). Exercise and swimming certainly are going to help your cause.

[TSandM]

It's hard to know what "not very active" means. But if you are largely sedentary, and particularly if you are overweight as well, it would be a VERY good idea at least to challenge yourself before your class. Go somewhere and get on a treadmill and walk fast enough to get a little out of breath -- then give yourself a bit of slope and keep at it. If you get winded almost immediately, or if you have any chest discomfort while doing this, go see a doctor before you take your dive class.

I don't want to be discouraging at all, but medical-related issues are becoming an increasingly important cause of diving accidents, so people who are a little older and out of shape would be well-served to evaluate their fitness before undertaking a dive class.

That said, I was 52 when I got certified, and diving has become one of the biggest passions of my life, so if your health is good, go for it!

[mdb]

You are receiving a lot of good advice here.

Diving is a life changing and a life long activity.

I have been diving with a man who was first certified @ age 72.

Stan Waterman is still diving, leading dive tours, @ age 87.

The Underwater world is full of wonders.

Enjoy your diving.

[diver 85]

"My main concern is that I haven't done much swimming in several years and am not as active as I used to be.".......

I would get a physical, start swimming---again, & you should be ready in a 'short while' for certification(there's really not that much to it)......good luck......

[tstormdiver]

I taught my father to dive this last summer. He's 63. Other than the parent/ child commnications gaps that can occur, he did great.:cool2: Like you, he really hadn't been super active in a few years, but was still in good enough shape he didn't have any real problems. In fact after he did his first dive without me, he said he had more fun on that dive, than any before (with me as his instructor).... I was crestfallen:depressed:, but so proud of him.:blinking: If you are in reasonble health & reasonably comfortable in the water, you shouldn't have too many problems. Good luck to you!

[Scuba_HI]

Aloha Willy
I did my OW a couple of months after my 50th, must be mid life crisis, this year. I'm not at all over weight but was a smoker for 10 years, I quit before the class started so I could buy all my gear I wanted as a gift to myself. The only thing I was worried about was the 200 meter swim if I could do it. Ended up I was the last one in the pool, the instructor seen my patch on my arm wanted to know how it was going, and I finished 2nd out of 6. I figured not bad for an old fart kicking the butts of kids not even half my age. Yes as TSandM stated go do a tread mil or just get out and walk. You should be fine but always believe what your body is telling you if it hurts or is discomfortable slow or stop. You can always talk to your doctor or get a derided physical, I hate doctors ha ha. Just don't push yourself, diving is very relaxing, go slow to save on air, and enjoy something that is under our world.
Randy

[Louie]

All,

I've loved SCUBA and the underwater world since my childhood days watching the Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau. However I never found the time to learn. Seeing Jacques Cousteau diving at 80 was always a great inspiration to me to feel confident I could eventually learn. Well, an opportunity has arisen for me learn. My plan is to take my classroom and pool lessons here in Virginia and then go to Florida for my OW dives. My main concern is that I haven't done much swimming in several years and am not as active as I used to be. I just wanted to get other diver's opinions and recommendations on how best to prepare oneself for the physical challenges of diving. Are there any issues with which I should concern myself before I begin. I really want to learn to dive but I certainly don't want to take any unnecessary risks. In reality I don't think I will ever make deep dives. I really just want to experience the underwater world and I think there are many wonderful sites at 30 feet or less. Thanks in advance for any advice.

Willy

Hi Willy. It's great that you want to get into diving.

There are many "older" divers in the sport nowadays. With developments in equipment technology and growth in international travel, diving is accessible to more people and dive sites are available within easy reach. Diving is very different from what it was during Jacques Cousteau's days.

In my experience, the oldest person I certified was in her late sixties. I've seen people in their seventies certify and go on to enjoy the sport so age in itself is not a problem.

In terms of physical fitness and health, you will be asked to do a medical questionnaire before starting the course and before you start the in-water portion of the course, there will be a swim test (200 metres swim or 300 metres snorkel swim). If you are a bit unsure about your watermanship or swimming fitness, make a few trips to the swimming pool and do lengths. This way, you'll work be able to work on your fitness and raise your confidence in the water.

All the best and let us know how you do.

L

[AbyssalPlains]

50? Hell yeah. There are plenty of divers getting certified as I'm typing this who are well in their 60s. Welcome to the sport!

[dmoore19]

I was 54 when I got my OW cert. The swimming part wasn't easy for me but I did it. So far I would have to say that Scuba is the best thing I ever learned. If only I had done it earlier. My wife was the one that talked me into it. She now has to go with the understanding that it is her fault. Now all she can say is OK, Don't tell me because I don't want to know what it costs.

[GrumpyOldGuy]

The best part about learning to dive is you can afford the gear. Also helps that the more mature divers think before the act, which prevent a lot of problems. I am sure you will have fun. Good luck.

[Brian Sharpe]

Assuming you have no underlying health problems go for it!

I was 52 when I did my OW course and have been kicking myself in the butt for not doing it years earlier but, as they say, better late than never.

Surgeon General's Warning: Scuba diving is habit forming and may be dangerous to your wealth!

[Lobstah Slayah]

Lots of good advice here. I got certified at age 42. I'm overweight and a smoker. Diving has motivated me to be in better shape. Not a bad idea to get a check up before starting. Welcome to the board and good luck.

[Michael Folise]

I got certified at 45 and did better in class than some of the 20 somethings. As stated above, if you are comfortable in the water and in reasonable shape you will do great. Here are three tips about conditioning: i) If you can bicycle this is great aerobic training, easy on the joints and fun. Having good aerobic capacity makes everything easier underwater as you wont get tired or find yourself overbreathing the regulator. ii) Do 10 situps, pushups and back extension exercises at least every other day. You can do this in less than three minutes before your morning shower. You will be surprised how much stronger your core will be in just one month. Your tank will be heavy and these exercises will help you avoid vacation killing back injuries, climbing the ladder back onto the boat, etc. iii) Lastly, if you wear glasses get perscription lenses for your mask, otherwise you really won't know what you are missing!

Happy Diving

[Doc Harry]

Recreational diving does not really require athleticism. ...

From one "Old Guy" (49 years old) to another....

dkktsunami is not offering good advice.

Scuba diving does require a certain degree of athleticism. You've got to be a competent swimmer at the very minimum. If you're shore diving, you've got to get back to shore (and there may be a bit of a current to fight). If you're boat diving, sometimes the boat can't come to you and you've got to go to the boat. In rough water, you've got to be able manage yourself.

The good news is that with a little of pool work you can get into some reasonable shape for diving. Talk with your doctor to make sure that it's safe for you to begin physical exercise.

I'm 49 and just completed my cave diving training, advanced nitrox training and decompression training this year.

[jeffloughridge]

I was introduced to diving in the late 70's when I was in college in Florida. I never got certified but have always been happiest either in or on the water Now I can add under the water to that.

I woke up one morning earlier this year at 49, with a wife, 3 teenagers, two cars, a mortgage, and all thr other trappings of modern life. I decided it was time start living my life for me as well as others and do something just to make me happy. I got certified. I took my classes at a local dive shop in June and my certification dives in the Keys in July. I continued on and got my advanced card, and did Nitrox in October. I have 28 logged dives so far.

I am now 50 and overweight; morbidly so at 5' 10" and 380 lbs, but I've lost 40 lbs this year and diving has been an additional outlet and incentive to continue to fight this battle.

I do laps so I didn't have trouble with the 200 meter swim, I did it all freestyle but if endurance is a problem you can slow down and change strokes. Try the side stroke to rest, as long as you keep moving forward.

I plan on getting my rescue diver cert next year, and who knows from there. I'm waiting for a wet suit to be delivered tomorrow that, if it fits, will enable me to continue diving this winter.

We live in the same area. There are a few good diving sites within a 2 hour drive of here. maybe we can buddy up sometime.

[101recon]

All,

I've loved SCUBA and the underwater world since my childhood days watching the Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau. However I never found the time to learn. Seeing Jacques Cousteau diving at 80 was always a great inspiration to me to feel confident I could eventually learn. Well, an opportunity has arisen for me learn. My plan is to take my classroom and pool lessons here in Virginia and then go to Florida for my OW dives. My main concern is that I haven't done much swimming in several years and am not as active as I used to be. I just wanted to get other diver's opinions and recommendations on how best to prepare oneself for the physical challenges of diving. Are there any issues with which I should concern myself before I begin. I really want to learn to dive but I certainly don't want to take any unnecessary risks. In reality I don't think I will ever make deep dives. I really just want to experience the underwater world and I think there are many wonderful sites at 30 feet or less. Thanks in advance for any advice.

Willy

This sounds a lot like me 3 months ago.I also grew up loving those UWJC shows and always wanted to see those things for myself.I also had concerns about learning to dive at 49.
Check with your doctor as to your fitness to dive and discuss any medical issues,after a half century we all have some things that ain't what they used to be.Ask about any meds you might take and how pressure might affect them.
I'm in good shape and haven't found anything really physically challenging about diving.The 200m swim has been the "hardest" thing so far.I find diving more relaxing than strenuous.For me,hauling all the tanks and gear on land and putting on a wet suit in the hot sun raises more sweat than the dive.
I don't think age is an issue.There are a lot of 'old guys' out there.In fact,since certification,I've met and dived with more people closer to our own age than any other.If you are physically and medically able,and are comfortable in the water,go for it.I think my biggest mistake in diving so far is not learning sooner.
BTW-49 is NOT old!:D

[roturner]

It's hard to know what "not very active" means. But if you are largely sedentary, and particularly if you are overweight as well, it would be a VERY good idea at least to challenge yourself before your class. Go somewhere and get on a treadmill and walk fast enough to get a little out of breath -- then give yourself a bit of slope and keep at it. If you get winded almost immediately, or if you have any chest discomfort while doing this, go see a doctor before you take your dive class.



He'll need a doctor's approval to start the training anyway.

Willy. I'd say go for it. To my way of thinking anything you do to become and remain active will pay big dividends in your quality of life. The worst thing we can do to ourselves is to become sedentary and then become afraid of doing something about that!

Lynne's word of warning is good but don't let it scare you off.

Your age is no problem at all.

R..

[veg123]

Went diving with my Father in law a few months back. It was his first time diving at 57 and he was smiling for weeks afterwards. Sure, he's not going to take it up for good but he still talks about it and so happy he tried it..

Personally, (and not to generalise) I prefer diving with older people who want to take it easy, take in the view, and and have a good time while making new friends. Most divers are happy to share their experience with others and help you learn. Every diver is still learning and you will be no different.

First post on this board... despite hanging out here for the last couple of years! Most poster here have much more experience to share with you, but just to reiterate ... nothing to stop you, ask lots of questions, share your concerns, and enjoy. People are happy to help.

It's a whole different world and worth going for a look!! :D

[dkktsunami]

From one "Old Guy" (49 years old) to another....

dkktsunami is not offering good advice.

Scuba diving does require a certain degree of athleticism. You've got to be a competent swimmer at the very minimum. If you're shore diving, you've got to get back to shore (and there may be a bit of a current to fight). If you're boat diving, sometimes the boat can't come to you and you've got to go to the boat. In rough water, you've got to be able manage yourself.

The good news is that with a little of pool work you can get into some reasonable shape for diving. Talk with your doctor to make sure that it's safe for you to begin physical exercise.

I'm 49 and just completed my cave diving training, advanced nitrox training and decompression training this year.

Hey Doc, Please re-read my post. I would like to think that I am not offering "bad advice". I do mention that good health and comfort in the water are necessary and that a large number of scuba "accidents" involving older people are from the inability to handle the stress of current or surface swims. I also mention that swimming and exercise are helpful. I don't think, however, that it is necessary to have the capabilities of an athlete to enjoy a successful and lasting life of scuba diving.

[ericgoesscuba]

I am new to the board, Hi Everyone, and was certified at 50, also after wanting to for 35 years and after many Jacques Cousteau episodes on TV. I am 52 and scuba in the Red Sea as much as possible. Walking the dog a few miles a day and push-ups help me to stay in shape for diving.

I love the water and the weightless environment (once I've established buoyancy) maybe more than the dive sites themselves. While only a PADI Open Water diver, I stick to the guide or dive master during my dives to stay safe and to take advantage of their familiarity with the dive site and its wonders. I plan to do advanced courses this Spring.

I also have friends in the neighborhood, a married couple in their 60s, who started diving last year and will be dive masters in a year from their almost weekly dive trips and course work. They plan to spend their retirement diving.

I am only sorry that I did not start sooner.

[herbdb]

I second the sentiment of being sorry for not starting sooner. I certified at 61 with my youngest son during a stay in the Bahamas. We then did not dive for about 9 months. Then I discovered how much fun local quarry diving can be last last summer.

We have been having a great time working on skills and meeting people. I bought myself a wet suit in a smaller size than the one I was renting and have lost 25 pounds so I could fit in it for a trip to Florida that we begin next week.

Jump in, get certified. There are lots of us older divers around. Just don't pick strenuous dives when you start. I am fascinated with the underwater life and have no interest in deep or strenuous dives.

Diving is also great exercise, no pressure on the old tired joints.

[Gunther49]

I was certified this year @ age 60, then followed that up withe AOW a month later.
My prep was joining the county pool and swimming 3 times a week for a couple months before the Scuba Course.

P.S. I highly recommend Adventure Scuba in Chantilly Va. Nice people

[TSandM]

Rob, Peter and I just reviewed the PADI medical statement, and he would not require a physician's clearance on age alone unless he smokes, has high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease or stroke. I got certified at 52, and I would not have required a physician's clearance except that I admitted to the mild asthma that I have.

I didn't mean to be at all discouraging -- after all, I got certified after 50! I just got concerned about the statement regarding inactivity and being out of shape. Out of shape in the US can mean anything from, "I don't think I could run a mile in under 5 minutes" to "I'm more than 100% over ideal body weight." Given the data that are accumulating regarding cardiovascular issues in dive accidents, I think it's reasonable to suggest that someone who states he's inactive do some kind of self-evaluation.

[roturner]

Hmm. Looks like you're right, Lynne. I was thinking about the clause that says "I"m older than 45 and .... etc" I thought I remembered it saying "I'm older than 45 OR .... etc". My bad.

R..

[WillyMcFly]

Thanks all for so many great responses. :D Your encouragement and enthusiasm are a real comfort. With so many supportive divers out there, I feel more confident about moving forward. Support of your fellow divers goes a long way toward reducing the stress of diving, I believe.

Just to clarify a few points: I would say that I am not "couch potato" out of shape--I walk regularly every day and eat healthy. On the other hand, I get winded after running short distances and have not practiced swimming in quite a few years. I think based on your informative responses I'm going to spend a few months getting comfortable in the pool again, swimming laps, and also managing my weight (I weigh 165 and would ideally like to weigh 145 or so).

One other question that I have is that my plan was to attend classes at a NAUI facility here in Falls Church, Virginia. It's called American Watersports of Virginia. Not sure if anyone is familiar with AWS but if anyone is I would love to know your experiences. Also, I've been told that NAUI is the best training source although it appears that PADI is more popular. Any thoughts?

Thanks so much again for your advice and comments!!!

[Teamcasa]

Just to clarify a few points: I would say that I am not "couch potato" out of shape--I walk regularly every day and eat healthy. On the other hand, I get winded after running short distances and have not practiced swimming in quite a few years. I think based on your informative responses I'm going to spend a few months getting comfortable in the pool again, swimming laps, and also managing my weight (I weigh 165 and would ideally like to weigh 145 or so).

Don't go crazy trying to become a marathon runner first. 20lbs overweight will soon melt off after all the diving you will no doubt start doing!;)

Remember, diving is suppose to be fun.

[WillyMcFly]

I was introduced to diving in the late 70's when I was in college in Florida. I never got certified but have always been happiest either in or on the water Now I can add under the water to that.

I woke up one morning earlier this year at 49, with a wife, 3 teenagers, two cars, a mortgage, and all thr other trappings of modern life. I decided it was time start living my life for me as well as others and do something just to make me happy. I got certified. I took my classes at a local dive shop in June and my certification dives in the Keys in July. I continued on and got my advanced card, and did Nitrox in October. I have 28 logged dives so far.

I am now 50 and overweight; morbidly so at 5' 10" and 380 lbs, but I've lost 40 lbs this year and diving has been an additional outlet and incentive to continue to fight this battle.

I do laps so I didn't have trouble with the 200 meter swim, I did it all freestyle but if endurance is a problem you can slow down and change strokes. Try the side stroke to rest, as long as you keep moving forward.

I plan on getting my rescue diver cert next year, and who knows from there. I'm waiting for a wet suit to be delivered tomorrow that, if it fits, will enable me to continue diving this winter.

We live in the same area. There are a few good diving sites within a 2 hour drive of here. maybe we can buddy up sometime.
Thanks Jeff! I will let you know how the certification goes. I plan to certify with AWS of Virginia. Not sure if you're familiar with it but it's the closest shop to my house.

[roturner]

I've been told that NAUI is the best training source although it appears that PADI is more popular. Any thoughts?


PADI is more "consistent" because the instructor doesn't have much freedom to add things to the course that the agency doesn't define. This can be good or bad. In the case of an outstanding NAUI instructor, he/she could offer you a course that is rich in material you might not learn in a PADI course. On the other hand, a NAUI instructor is also free to put you through hell for no good reason....

In terms of minimum standards there isn't much difference between most of the recreational agencies. Also, there are exceptionally good and exceptionally bad instructors working for both agencies. If you have a choice then my advice would be to shop around and interview instructors and decide based on which *instructor* gives you the best feeling and don't just choose based on which agency someone told you is better.

Does someone have a link to Walter's checklist of questions for interviewing an instructor?

In terms of market share, PADI is more popular than all of the other agencies combined but NAUI cards are accepted world wide as well. I wouldn't let the popularity sway you one way or the other. Being the most popular doesn't necessarily mean you're the best (or the worst) it says nothing of significance, actually.

R..

[TSandM]

I'm not sure if Walter's checklist is in this thread or not, but THIS (http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/new-divers-those-considering-diving/153194-those-considering-ow-class.html) is a very good thread for anyone considering an open water class to have a look at. (You don't have to read all 20-some-odd pages, but the first two or three are quite educational, I think.)

[WillyMcFly]

I was certified this year @ age 60, then followed that up withe AOW a month later.
My prep was joining the county pool and swimming 3 times a week for a couple months before the Scuba Course.

P.S. I highly recommend Adventure Scuba in Chantilly Va. Nice people

Gunther, Thank you for the advice. I was just checking Adventure Scuba on the web. Very good information. It might be worth considering but it's such a long drive from FC. Maybe I will take a drive out on the weekend.

-W.

[jeffloughridge]

Willy,

I am familiar with them only from their web site.

You didn't say where you were going to do your open water dives in Florida. If you are going to the Keys, I highly recommend Looe Key Dive Center. I did my OW and AOW with them and was very pleased. I'm hoping to do my Rescue Diver with them next year.

Looe Key is among the nicest Fla. reefs to dive, and I think the perfect place to learn. Good vis, lots to see, little current, only slight surge, and you need a shovel to hit 30 feet.

[Blackbeard 69]

I was 57 when i did my ow cert dives and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Just know your limitations and don't try to push beond them, your not dead until you die so enjoy life.

[RonFrank]

Diving is a great sport for ... umm older divers! It is not physically demanding for the most part, in fact once UW it is quite calming and peaceful at most times. It is one reason I enjoy it so much.

One main consideration is that if something does go wrong when you are at depth, it is a very unfriendly environment as we don't breath water too well.

You need to be a reasonable swimmer, so doing laps and getting in the pool is a good way to increase your in water confidence, and it's good for you as well.

I would suggest getting your hands on the OW material, and spending some time not just reading it, but learning it. You don't necessarily need to memorize the tables, but you should have a handle on NDL's at various depths. You should also have a basic understanding of the equipment, not necessarily how it all goes together (that should be well covered in class) but the components, and options.

Starting shallow is a good plan. You may find that deeper is not that difficult, just something one needs to take into account with a bit of added caution and training/experience.

Have fun, be safe, and enjoy.

[RonFrank]

PADI is more "consistent" because the instructor doesn't have much freedom to add things to the course that the agency doesn't define. This can be good or bad.

I know a number of instructors from different agencies. I think there is PLENTY to teach/learn in the allotted time, and good OW instructors keep focus on the task(s) on hand without a constant stream of shifting information that can overwhelm the new diver.

I believe many students are a bit overwhelmed even if I think they get good training. I have helped a LOT of OW students before their first dive, and just the gear setup can be a bit daunting for the newbie.

One thing I recommend to any new student is to spend plenty of time with the book, and really learn the material prior to any class (not just OW). Class room sessions are relatively short, and not the time to be reading the book for the first time. A college class, or extended classroom with the instructor can be the exception. However the standard agency classes assume the student walks in the door understanding most of the material.

[Mount.n.girl]

Hi
I read your post and am also a new diver and age 53. My certification dives were shore dives out of Monterey CA and the hike with equipment on, up and back on the shore,took everything I had to get back up the sand and to our start position.
Then I went on my first 3 day live aboard boat dive. I made 6 dives on that trip and was exsasted after each dive.
I started jogging then to get in better spape.
My last dives this last weekend, again off a live aboard boat.....were much much better. My stamina had improved greatly and I was not tired after any dives. I am going to continue to jog. I only jog about a mile right now. Starting out, I jogged one minute then walked one minute. I am slowly increasing my run time.
You will LOVE diving. It is the most Awesome sport I have found and I am just in Awe of the underwater alien world.
You can do it! And you will not be sorry. Just make sure you get good equipement and good instruction. It will keep your life safe.
Maureen

[Tom Smedley]

I was in an Olive Garden Restaurant in Kissimmee Florida last week and I jotted down something on the wall. 'You're not as young as you once were. But, you're not as old as you're going to be. So watch it - no guts -no glory. Let's have a drink."

My oldest diver that I have certified to date was a month shy of 82. He's 85 this December 7th and still going strong. He has broken every rule of longevity. He smokes, he sky dives, he rides dirt bikes, and he is married to a younger woman. He attributes his long life to have given up drinking at 78. He claims to have violated every one of the ten commandments except one - To his knowledge he has never created a graven image.

Go for it and tell them I said so!

[Jerzi]

You can do a few things to get prepared for the physical aspect of the course.

Make sure you can tread water for roughly around 10 minutes and practice breathing through a snorkel, while doing laps in a pool.

I would suggest doing some weighted lunges to build up leg strength and daily stretching to prevent cramping.

The equipment that you will be wearing is not very light. You will have about 40 extra pounds strapped to your body. You will really feel the weight of it if you need to squat down and try to stand back up or when climbing out of the pool from the ladder.

Leg strength, Core strength, Upper Body Stength and cardivascular activities will make it much easier for you. Swimming and Rowing do wonders for building these up.

[Michael Folise]

One more thought. There really is a lot to learn. Get the DVD's for whatever training program you choose (NAUI, PADI, etc.). They are fun to watch and in addition to doing the course book really do help you to remember/reinforce what you will be learning. Even though it is now years later for some of the courses we took, we occasionally put the DVDs on the screen (we have an LCD projector), make popcorn and we still pick up things here and there that we use on our dives.

[WillyMcFly]

One more thought. There really is a lot to learn. Get the DVD's for whatever training program you choose (NAUI, PADI, etc.). They are fun to watch and in addition to doing the course book really do help you to remember/reinforce what you will be learning. Even though it is now years later for some of the courses we took, we occasionally put the DVDs on the screen (we have an LCD projector), make popcorn and we still pick up things here and there that we use on our dives.

Thanks for the advice. I just found a complete NAUI Training Kit including the DVD on Ebay for $40. I think it will give me a good sense of how I should prepare.

Hope to be underwater soon! Thanks to all for great advice and sharing your own experiences. This is a great site.:D

[TMHeimer]

I was certified at 51. Don't recall the swim test was hard. But at 55 I'm really training hard to do the 400 meter required for DM. I use a stationary bike, arm strengthening and a lot of running (some up hill). As stated, really study the book, and do the Knowledge Reviews (PADI) all before class starts. I took the class 6 nights then the weekend 4 Open Water dives. Would've found the one weekend class-pool set up difficult to absorb. Really study the 20 basic skills, as you may need one of them at some point. Many divers like myself pass the course and neglect to practise these from time to time. Good luck.

[BabyDuck]

i agree with the bit about making sure you have some leg & core strength. nothing like a professional athlete level, but maybe you could start wearing a backpack with some weight on some of your walks, and going up & down some stairs in it?

leg strength while not 'over' my legs and with deeply bent knees is my main weakness (though i wear a *lot* of equipment - cave diver), like stepping up or down rocks that aren't at 'step' height. that i didn't fall this past trip was a huge success for me! i've fallen lots of places & i'm only typing now instead of flopping around on rocks because my dive buddy is my boyfriend...

[scubamountaingirl]

as a person of 55 , i got my ow at 52. i am in ok shape. i used to be an athlete but now am an arthritic mess...LOL I still am active during my day, but if , like lynne *TS&M, worked out more for upper body strength i would be ahead of the game.

In the quarry where we take class and practice, there are slopes not sissy slopes but not huge, sometimes my knees will accompany me up them, sometime i need a elbow for the first step.

the point is that you want to be in shape, not out of breath as your breath is your lifeline in SCUBA . You need to be honest with yourself and take one step and one class at a time. If you get serious about this sport, you will in fact get in shape.

where ever you go, there you are!!!

good luck and let us know what happens with your diving.
ww

[Jerzi]

i agree with the bit about making sure you have some leg & core strength. nothing like a professional athlete level, but maybe you could start wearing a backpack with some weight on some of your walks, and going up & down some stairs in it?



I would suggest a weighted vest where the weight is evenly distributed.
You risk the chance of shoulder, neck and back strains with weighted backpacks. You want to distribute the weight evenly as possible to negate any of these possibilities.

[still new]

Congratulations on taking the plunge( no pun intended), I too started diveing in my 50's and have kicked myself everyday since for not starting as a much younger man. As with any fitness program I would start walking on a daily basis for a couple of weeks then I would go to my locae swimming pool with my mask,fins, and snorkle and swim that way until you feel you can do a couple of lengths without them each day you do this you will build up the didtance. Good luck and perhaps we can dive together someday.

[mtldiver]

Congrats on making the decision on becoming certified. I also became certified last June at age 52. I haven't been diving much due to education costs for my three kids but I almost done with that. One more semester payment! I 've slowly been getting in better shape with cardio and weight lifting. I started slowly and have kept increasing my distance and weights. You'll be amazed at how quickly your body will begin to become accustomed to the load. I plan to dive as much as possible once spring begins. Also when you become certified join a local dive club to meet dive buddies and don't be afraid to tell them you're a newbie. Good luck you're going to love it!

[Garth]

Good luck!
You'll love it.
but don't think your done buying gear though

[geokr]

Well, McFly, did you get your answer? Welcome to the world you only imagined! You're going to love it! There's lots of good advice on these pages and if you take a "mature" approach to learning the sport you're in for great adventure. It really doesn't matter what age you are. Just as if you were 21 - be mentally ready, give the physical stuff proper preparation, any challenges due respect, keep learning and you'll be just fine. Dive with pros or more experienced divers whenever possible - experiences they have had can provide valuable lessons. Don't push limits. The community of divers you're joining spans the entire age spectrum and you're way left of "too old" so don't hold back now! I started at 55 and have no intentions of stopping or slowing down. Hope to see you out there!

[rodman4085]

I'm 54, got certified 2 years ago....did pool and school in Wisconsin in January, and found a wonderful instructor in Cancun to do my OW dives, will be revisiting him in Feb 2010......this after too many years of should of, would of, could of.....heck, I was a lifeguard at the YMCA at home in high school, and watched a guy teach scuba in our pool.....I made sure the kids stayed out of his way....! He invited me a bunch of times to sign up....(dumba$$)......!!!!! Just returned from a Blackbeards liveaboard trip in the Bahamas 2 weeks ago....kind of cold, lots of wind, but the dives were fun! Pick your places, and pleasures.....I like the blue of the Caribe! and the warmth of the water......no Lake Michigan for me!!!!!!!!

[GrandpaScuba]

I learned to dive at 23, but became an instructor at age 50. One of my favorite things is to work with old farts like me. I feel that I can give them advice on the "smart" way to do things instead of using brute force like the whippersnappers.

[ScubaCrow]

Although I'm a bit late to this discussion, I would recommend start swimming a few laps to ensure you are comfortable in the water. I teach for Adventure Scuba and they do most of their confined pool work at the Oak Mar Rec Center in Vienna. This time of year they offer the pool sessions at Oak Mar and follow up with Open Water down in the Crystal River in Florida. If you still have any questions, PM me. Good luck from one 50 year old to another. BTW, Adventure Scuba's oldest instructor is 72 and spends a lot of his time now working with the SUDS group at Walter Reed. He is an inspiration.

[LenzPA]

My Mum started when she was 50. She has now done over 500 dives and is considered a very capable diver.

I think that the trick is to find good instructors and go at your own pace. At the end of the day, it's not so much about how old you are on your passport but how young you feel in your mind!

Enjoy and have fun.

Phil

[Interceptor121]

I hope by now you have already enrolled a scuba class, if you have not already the best is to download this form http://www.wrstc.com/downloads/RSTCMedStatementGeneric.pdf and answer honestly all the questions.
Pay special attention to the one about moderate exercise. Get yourself a pair of trainer and do a one mile walk and clock how long it takes you. If you can make it in 12 minutes or less and you are not staggering at the end you have enough fitness for the class.
Be also aware that the level of physical activity increases in cold water and poor weather condition so if you don't feel really fit limit your diving to warm waters and east conditions (no currents, good viz)

[drbill]

Don't do it... your life is over at 50. You'll kill yourself if you dive.

Seriously, SCUBA is an activity you can pursue well into your mature years (once you actually reach them). The 50s are the new 30s. I've known several folks who are active divers in their 70s and 80s. You've got a long future ahead of you if you do it.

[Scubagolf]

I was certified 8 years ago at age 51; my wife got tired of listening to me talk about it and did her OW 3 years ago when she was 52. We did AOW and Nitrox last year and pretty much plan our traveling around dive trips. Just got back from Fiji; going to Cozumel in April, etc. The sport may even motivate you to get into and/or stay in better physical shape than you might otherwise. It certainly has for me.

[Ms diver 57]

I got my OW at 51 then within two months got my nitrox then two months later my advanced. I have found a great passion that I two wish i would have done earlier in life. My only regret is i didnt tell my instructor i had several near drowning experiences in my childhood and had issues with. I wasn't ready to jump off the boat so we did beach dives first. I have only been diving since last january and have 47 dives logged.

[rongoodman]

I started out three years ago at 59. I'm not a natural at it by any means, but I keep plugging away. Going to Playa del Carmen in May for Cavern and Intro to Cave.