How To Use Scuba Diving Weights

Planning to get wet and want to know how to use SCUBA diving weights? Good news -- it's easy to do, even if it can be a bit daunting. First things first: SCUBA diving, while normally a very safe and widely-pursued activity, is only safe if you are properly trained and certified. If you attempt any SCUBA related activities without proper training or supervision, you can die. Most SCUBA shops won't sell weight to non-certified customers. Keep that in mind. But assuming you know that already, here's how to use SCUBA diving weights.

What you'll need:

• Certification - No really, we're not kidding. Be safe and stay alive.
• Weight Belt - Either a pouch system for hard or soft weights, or a strap system for hard weight. Some Buoyancy Control Devices have integrated belts for both hard and soft weight.
• Weight - About 10% of your body weight, though have more available for adjustment. If you have a pouch or integrated weight belt, you may be happier with soft weights (they're a bit more comfortable), but hard weights are more compatible. It's personal preference!
• Water - Lots and lots of water.

Ready to learn how to use SCUBA diving weights? Here you go!

1. Get Certified. Apologies for beating a dead horse, but it's better than mourning a dead diver. PADI, NAUI, or a number of other agencies can get you certified. They'll help you weight up, too!
2. Kit Up. Put on all of your equipment, including your weight belt. Start with about 8% of your body weight.
3. Get Wet. Expel all of the air from your buoyancy control device, take a deep breath, and fload in the water. Ideally, you should float at eye level.
4. Trim. Sinking? Take weight off the belt! Floating too high? Add more weight! Salt water especially will necessitate a bit of extra weight.
5. Get Comfy. Some people like to shift weight around. A pound on each ankle and a pound or two on the tank can make a lot of difference in your personal comfort. Ask your local dive shop to show you how to set up different variations.
6. Check again! Any time you change anything, from location, to equipment, to diet, check your weight. It just takes five seconds at the beginning of every dive, and being properly weighted can make all the difference in the world.