Snorkelling is very fun filled activity and you would definitely love it once you try it out. This activity just like scuba diving involves going into below the surface of the water. Although it is a fun activity you have to keep in mind certain things to make it safe and enjoyable for everyone. You must know about the snorkelling equipments, precautions and techniques which are meant for your safety. Under the snorkelling gear you require a snorkelling outfit, mask, snorkel and fins. The mask is required covering your eyes so as to enable you to see when you are under water. An air barrier between the face and water is formed by the mask. A good mask is the one that tightly fits on the face and does not let the water get onto the face. You can buy masks according to your budget but make sure they are tight fit and properly sealed. If your budget permits them you can buy expensive silicone ones which are durable and adjust pressure in a much better manner.
What makes snorkelling called so is the equipment snorkel which is a tube like thing through which a snorkeler breathes under water. This a flexible tube which brings the surface air by connecting surface and the snorkeler. There are different sizes of snorkeler available, depending upon the person, the size should be chosen in a manner which makes it easier and comfortable to breathe. Snorkel comes with a mouthpiece which should be comfortable to hold and should fit properly. While swimming under water requires strength to propel oneself also one needs to keep the energy level balanced while snorkelling. In doing so you need to have fins which make it easier to swim also can make you swim faster. As a beginner you should prefer flexible fins that are protective enough. Stiff fins are suitable for the experienced snorkeler who has strong leg muscles. Lastly comes the safety vest which is for increased buoyancy for keeping you afloat.
Unlike scuba diving, you need not require any prior training for snorkelling. It is a fun activity for enjoying the underwater beauty such as corals and aquatic wildlife. But you need to keep certain things in mind while doing it such as your body should be fit for doing snorkelling. For keeping your body streamlined while swimming you need not stiff your body instead relax your knees and ankles for lessening the resistance. Since you are wearing fins you would be able to move fast and quick without much effort. While you are underwater the things appear closer than they actually are and you have to get an idea about by reaching out using your arm. This would help in avoid hitting and getting yourself injured.
Under the safety precautions you must check all your equipments before diving. As a beginner you should try out shallow water first then moving to deeper water once you get to experience with snorkelling. Always carry a life jacket for your safety.
Steve Brown
