Scuba Diving, Fitness, and Smoking: JUE's perspective

Diving Fitness

“We all know that physical activity is important to good health on the surface, but research shows that our fitness also impacts our excursions underwater.”* This is why JUE actively encourages all divers to exercise regularly and expects divers to take this seriously. Of course, most of us have jobs, families, and other commitments vying for our time, but the benefits are worth it. Even a brisk walk on your lunch break can have an impact.

Some benefits of good health for the diver:
- Better SAC (gas consumption) rates
- Better able to cope in a stressful situation
- Reduced risk of DCS related problems
- Reduced chance of strains and injuries
- Fewer cramps and sore muscles
- Swimming becomes easier
- Diving is more leisurely and more enjoyable

*Suggested reading: Fitness For Divers By Cameron Martz

Smoking and Diving

JUE is a non-smoking organizationWe spend considerable time, effort (and money) in trying to improve our diving and smoking is simply counterproductive. We learn about the physiological effects that various gases (eg nitrogen, oxygen, helium) have on the body under pressure and the importance of our lungs and cardiovascular systems, so why impair them with tobacco smoke? JUE has a strong belief that smoking and diving do not mix, and in Japan where many divers are smokers we like to try to be a role model for the community

For fun dives and recreational trips, smokers are welcome so long as they are polite and smoke away from the others. However, technical dive courses and trips have a strict rule of non-smokers only. This falls in line with the global standards set by GUE.

Why smoking is bad for divers:
- Reduced ability to absorb oxygen
- Cognitive impairment
- Increased risk of DCS and related problems
- Increased risk of lung over-expansion injuries
- Increased risk of cardiac attacks
- Plus all the standard risks associated with smoking

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