Is there such a thing as an ABC of technical diving? Well, whilst there are 26 letters in the alphabet there are certainly more than 26 things each tech diving student learns even during an introductory course. As a consequence, there is definitely enough fodder for several tech diving A to Z posts.
As part of my contributions to Scuba Diver Life I did attempt to select 26 aspects covering tech diving. They have been published in a number of separate posts. Here are the links for those curious about what made the cut (and many thanks to Christoph Meyer von der Twer for the image)!
- A-B-C-D: Awareness, Buoyancy Control, Communications and Discipline
- E-F-G-H: Equipment, First time dive leading, Gradient Factors and Hypoxia / Hyperoxia
- I-J-K-L: Isobaric counter diffusion, Judgment, Key to progression and Logistics
- M-N-O-P: M value, Normoxic, Overhead Environments and Preparation
- Q-R-S-T: Questions, Rebreather diving, START drill and Turn Pressure
- U-V-W: Understanding your limits, Valve drills and Wetsuits vs drysuits
- X-Y-Z: X-overs, Y valves and Z knives
The idea started with the ABCD part of our tech diving A to Z: arguably, that post in itself covers some of the most important skills and characteristics of a technical diver.
If I were to pick one out of 26, the most important letter would be B for Buoyancy Control. Without the ability to control your position and remain stable underwater, you simply have no foundation on which to build. This makes it nearly impossible to master critical technical diving skills. So, if you are wondering what to practice on your next dive, buoyancy is always a good choice.