TRAINING continued
moderate exercise and nutrition guidelines. Benefits of Fitness for Diving Notice how these benefits of exercise correlate to the medical conditions reported by divers. Improve Cardiorespiratory Health ▪ Prevent and Manage Heart Disease and High Blood Pres- ▪ sure Lower High Blood Pressure through Lifestyle Modifica- ▪ tion Burn Fat and Promote Healthy Weight Loss ▪ Prevent, Reverse, Manage and Reduce the Long-Term Ef- ▪ fects of Diabetes Assist in Smoking Cessation ▪ Reduce the Symptoms of Asthma and Allergies ▪ Prevent and Reverse Bone Loss ▪ So why do surveys consistently show that fewer than 30 percent of divers participate in a regular exercise program? In the United States alone, there are approximately three million divers, about 77 million gym memberships, and roughly 247 million people who report participating in at least one physical activity. These numbers suggest that fitness-minded individuals already exist within many dive communities. Often, it is simply a matter of awareness and conversation. Public health data from organizations such as America’s Health Rankings shows that rates of hypertension vary by
region, influenced by factors such as lifestyle patterns, access to healthcare, and broader social conditions. Large population studies referenced by the National Institutes of Health show that hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors are common across adult populations, affecting roughly one in three adults. While prevalence varies slightly between men and women, the broader takeaway for the diving community is clear: cardiovascular health is strongly influenced by modifiable factors such as physical activity, overall fitness, and lifestyle choices. For divers, maintaining physical preparedness supports safety, comfort, and long- term participation in the sport. Exercising to enhance recreational activity is a positive way to take responsibility for personal health, bring focus and motivation to a fitness routine, and improve the overall diving experience. For dive store owners and instructors, physical preparedness also supports professional credibility, endurance, and the ability to lead and supervise others with confidence. Framed appropriately, fitness awareness becomes another tool for supporting diver safety, enjoyment, and long-term participation in this incredible recre- ational and professional sport.
If you are interested in a presentation to diving staff or your dive club on more fitness insights, contact gretchen@scubafit.com.
email Gretchen
Beneath the Sea, March 27, 28, 29, 2026 Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, NJ WWW. BeneaththeSea.US SPEAK DIRECTLY WITH DIVE PROFESSIONALS
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