AQUATIC ACTIVITIES

Water or Aqua has a certain unique attraction to people of all ages. Aquatic Activities may be done in
water such as swimming, snorkeling, whitewater rafting, scuba diving, surfing, fishing, etc.

Characteristics:

 BUOYANCY – is the upward force of water on an object. This is the reason why boats and people
float on water.
 HYROSTATIC PRESSURE – is exerted by the water at equilibrium due to the force of gravity.
Helps keep standing balance in water.
 ENHANCED COOLING – transfers heat away from the body much quickly than air given in the
same temperature. This is the reason we can stay longer in water and can tolerate longer
workouts feeling being overheated.

SNORKELING
One of the best but simple ways to see, discovers, and appreciates the intriguing underwater
life. It allows one not only to grasp the amazing beauty of marine life, but swim with them as well.
Snorkeling is peeking through life underneath water by swimming with the aid of a snorkel and
mask. Through this we can observe the underwater attractions for a long period of time, without the
need to constantly resurface to gasp for air, and with relatively lesser effort.

BASIC EQUIOMENT IN SNORKELING

The basic gears needed in snorkeling are the snorkel, goggles, and fins.

1. MASK – serves as the viewing device in appreciating the world beneath the water. Without the
mask, everything viewed underwater will be blurred or distorted.
2. SNORKEL – is a piece of equipment that makes it possible to breathe at the surface while the
face is submerged in water. The snorkel is basically composed of a tube, also called barrel, and
the mouthpiece.
3. SNORKELING FINS – water resists or pushes back anything moving through it. This is the
principle behind what the fins do.
4. SNORKEL VESTS – are small and inflatable, which provide more buoyancy while floating on
water. Never used this as a substitute of life vest.
5. SKIN PROTECTION – snorkeling may require one to be under the sun for some time. In order to
protect the skin from the heat of the sun, one may use a good biodegradable sunscreen or a
better choice will be wearing a long sleeve rash guard.
6. SWIMMING CAP – is a big help in keeping hair out of the snorkel and the face as well.
7. MASK DEFOGGER – helps prevent the mask from fogging up. Be sure to choose one that is non-
toxic, biodegradable, and alcohol free for one’s protection and for the protection of marine life.

TEST & PRACTICE

It is best for beginners to try the gears on shallow water. This way, one can get used to wearing
the mask and breathing through tube.
 Floating Position
 Kicking to Move
 Diving Deeper (Feet-First Dive : Head-First Dive)
What are the important things to remember while snorkeling?
S – tay close to the shore if you are a beginner. Some beginners misjudge their capabilities and
endurance and before knowing it, they are exhausted.
N – ever do it alone. Always have a buddy so that whatever happens, someone is there to help you. It is
advised to have a minimum party of three. A buddy pairs to lookout each other in the water and a shore
lookout. Know where to call for help in case in emergency.
O – ne up, one down. While diving with your buddy, one should stay on the surface while one is
underwater. In case the diver has problems, one can help or seek help.
R – ain check!. Always check the weather forecast and the state of the sea. Wind can cause waves to
increase, which makes snorkeling challenging to do.
K – now your surroundings. Know the area where you will be snorkeling. Know the tides. Be careful
around rocky shore or some marine life that may be known to aggressive. Know the conservation rules
and regulations.
E –nergy retention. Do not overestimate your limits. To avoid being worn-out, flotation device or a
simple snorkeling vest will help conserve energy.
L – eave them alone. Do not touch marine life. Maintain safe distance as well. Touching them might
damage their habitats and hurt marine life. In the same way, might also suddenly be stung, bitten, or
hurt by some marine life if you touch them. Try not to make sudden moves that will startle them.

A DIVE GUIDE or SNORKELING GUIDE is a certified professional who is capable of leading a group of
aquatic enthusiasts to various dive sites in the area. He is knowledgeable about the local underwater
organisms and other peculiar attractions.