Hey all,
I must say I got the idea stuck in my head to get certified. However, after hopping up on the net and doing some research, ive seen a ton of things that are easily making me want to change my mind. So, now i figure its best to get into an interactive discussion where the information is not so "one-sided". a growing list of concerns that i was hoping could be addressed are:
DCI: how often does it occur? have you had it? if so how many time and how many dives have you had.
Unexplained DCI: Again, same questions as above.
Gear Failures: Same questions.
Free Flow: Is it an easy situation to deal with?

and a general newbie question: The premise of breathing underwater and the brains "programming" to say "thats not right", is that easy to get past once you've done it a few times. Say in a pool?
I know it sounds like im A. retentative, well probably true. but I really really do want to learn to dive.
i guess i just need some re-assurances at this point.

Thanks To all
-Rich

Relax; diving is fun easy and enjoyable. I have been diving and teaching respectfully for over 15 years. I have never had a problem with DCI or unexplained DCI. Why because I stayed with in the limits (you will learn this in your upcoming class!!!) You have a greater chance willing the lottery while getting hit by lighting!! Gear problems are typically rare but a free flowing regulator sometimes happens. It normally happens on the surface, prior to your dive, but guess what. Your awesome scuba instructor will show you how to deal with that issue. Once you try scuba you will be amazed at how easy it is. Don’t worry, breathing underwater will become normal and maybe, just maybe it will change your life. So don’t worry, Call your local Scuba retailer and speak with an instructor. Find an instructor that you feel comfortable with and someone how addresses your concerns. Happy diving!!

What Eric said

If you can be comfortable breathing with a snorkle while swimming on the surface, you can scuba.

If you keep your gear in top shape by maintaining it properly and taking it it for the annual checkups suggested by the manufacterers, the chance of gear failure will be very very low indeed.

One thing I did before taking the certification plunge was do a "discover diving" class. This usually is very inexpensive (local shops around here charge $40 or less) chance to actually put on some gear and see if you like it. And beleive me if you try it, you are most likely going to be hooked for life. So ask your local shop to see if they offer such a class.

And most of all, HAVE LOTS OF FUN!!!

--Texas Mike

Thanks Guys,
Ive signed up for a class starting the 14th of this month and my ocean dives are on the 2/3 and 9/10 of next month. Ill let you know what the out come is. Well if you really want to know.

Again, Thanks. Exactly what i needed to hear at this point.

-Rich

We would love to know how it went!

Hi,
I agree with all above - I recently just finished my 8 wk course as well. I had many concerns too and it was scary at first - but, like all things, the more that you DO it, the better you get, and the more comfortable you get. Don't let anyone kid you - NO one in my class (men or women) didn't have fears and concerns as well - its natural. You have to learn to walk before you can run. Diving gear is extremely reliable, just be sure to bring your gear in annually for check-ups and routine maintenance. Freeflowing isn't a big deal - your teacher will teach you an easy, effective emergency task to deal with that problem - in all of 10 minutes. You will still have plenty of air available to ascend. When you finish your course, you'll look back and say "I really DID it." You CAN do it! Go for it! Study hard and apply yourself and you'll do fine! I tend to be A. retentive as well - so don't feel bad. Smart people do their homework and research FIRST before taking up ANY new endeavor! Good luck! 8-o

I too had the same fears, which were resolved through my dive instructor. I signed up for a SSI Open Water course about 1 month ago and have had no problem adjusting. I did request that my Instructor teach the pool lessons in the open water though, I felt I could better adjust to learning all the techniques in the same water I'd be diving. Also, as I was researching this big adventure called Scuba diving. I learned of the D.I.R (Doing It Right) system. In my opinion It's the way to go. Even if you're only planning to be a recreational diver. I plan to take a D.I.R fundamentals class after I receive my C-Card next week. Check out www.halcyon.net and www.gue.net

Sorry It's www.gue.com

To all!
I must thank you for your positive words. While i havent done my ocean dives yet, i spent my first 45 minutes underwater tonight. What an awesome experience it was. The concerns i mentioned earlier have all been put to rest.
Again, thank you so much. Ill post back and let you know how the ocean dives went.

-=Rich=-

radecatur,

Don't worry too much about breathing underwater its just like in air, breath in, breath out. You'll find it pretty cool like i did i'm sure.
They tell you alot of scary stuff durring the classes and in the book. Don't worry about too much of it. Like everyone else said your instructor will show you how to deal with every possible situation. If you don't enjoy your ceritification dives, don't worry about it. Lots of people don't cause they make you do alot of skills you don't have to do. My mom hated them cause she struggled a little, but i had a great time and didn't have any trouble. Diving is cool.

-Dave in KC