Should I do my Advanced OW?

[spectrum]

jonnybigfoot

I found this one late but it sounds like you are heading in the right direction.

1. Train in your local (most challenging) conditions.

2. AOW is not about making you a better OW diver for the most part. It's about introducing you to other more challenging aspects of diving. If you are not yet comfortable and reasonably competent in making simple shallow daytime dives why would you want to be led into the deep or the dark for instance. They are all great growth opportunities when you are ready. When the time is right you will be prepared to absorb the new learnings and have a good time.

Getting your local instructors assessment of your readiness is a good idea. Be careful though since in some cases selling the next course is the prime objective.

You got certified to enjoy diving so go enjoy that for a while. The concept of training at home and playing on vacation also makes sense to me.

Pete

 

[jonnybigfoot]

Thanks Spectrum.

Its encouraging people have taken the time to give a newbie their point of view.

Its sorted stuff in my mind and the point about an instructor having the sale of training as their main motivation as opposed to what is best for me is a valid one.

 

[floridanewbe]

everyone is motivated by different things. Do what makes you smile

 

[kvillefire128]

My wife and I were certified in our OW in cold Indiana quarry water. About 40 degrees. Then we went to FL in July and did our AOW cert. with the same instructor. It doesn't seem like it's much different but I think the experience is what it's all about..