Should I get a physical before learning how to dive?

[shakespear]

Does it matter? Im 30 a bit out of shape, but I wonder about things that I may not know about.

 

[scubadobadoo]

I think diving is all about being comfortable with the situation you are in and if getting that physical makes you feel more comfy about going diving then go for it. It is a very good idea!

 

[rawls]

Does it matter? Im 30 a bit out of shape, but I wonder about things that I may not know about.

Ha Ha...I think the same way. What if there's something wrong I don't know about. I don't think that is a unique feeling. But I don't think you will find anyone who would say Nah...You don't need no freakin physical. You need a physical before you dive...period.:mooner:

 

[alcina]

Yes, yes and yes. Get one done with a doctor who knows about diving medicine...most don't and IMHO the checks they do aren't adequate.

 

[Quero]

You could take a look at the medical form that all student divers are asked to fill out; that might give you an idea about the kinds of health problems that would make diving especially risky to you. If you have concerns about any of the conditions listed, by all means, you must get yourself checked out. If you just worry about your general fitness for sports, then you should definitely go anyway.

If you do a physical with your regular physician, get the correct form which provides specific information for doctors who are not diving specialists. Give it to your doctor ahead of time so that s/he can do additional research among the bibliographical listing attached to it for diving-specific contraindications that might apply to your particular case history.

 

[Matteo]

for the record, I'm 31 and slightly more than a bit out of shape, but I am working on it! and I dive quite regularly! if it makes you feel better, use the above suggestions and get yourself checked out. But, at the same time time, go to your local adult-league softball field and see how many grossly overweight, hot dog eatin', cigarette smokin', beer and whiskey guzzlin' guys are out there playing ball and managing to get by. It's tough to admit, especially for guys, but no trip to the doctor's office is unwarranted. Do what you feel is right for yourself and in your own good common sense. Diving does provide some unique health issues, but most, if not all can be overcome with knowledge and preparation.

 

[shark.byte.usa]

Agreee look at the medical form definitely get checked out if anything is a YES [You'll have to anyway], else do it if that's what you need to do to make yourself feel comfortable.

You've been a member for a year and haven't got certified yet, are you syching yourself out or what? Go to the doc, get certified and Just Dive. We're not climbing Everest or mountain biking down Krakatoa

P.S. Sounds like Matteo's been spying on my softball games.

 

[~Orca*Chick~]

well from personal experience...i would get one before instead of after if your worried about it

:butnhome:

 

[Matteo]

P.S. Sounds like Matteo's been spying on my softball games.

nope, just played enough myself to see the trend :lol:

and to quote Jeff Foxworthy....."I R 1"

 

[Bratface]

YES!!! Get the physical, you don't want any surprises under water, and you don't want to put another diver at risk to rescue you.