How Much?
The question is usually quite simple. When a diver checks
in at the dive center they are asked, "How much weight do
you need?" The answers though, run the gamut. Some divers
know exactly what they need and keep a record, which is a good
idea because it certainly can save a dive. Others don't have a
clue and their answers are more like the following:
1) "I don't know!" This is the simplest answer.
Sometimes this is because it is a diver's first experience in
different conditions. The diver may have done all certifying dives
in a quarry in the spring and now this is their first tropical
dive with less wetsuit. But too many just don't know, even though
they dive year after year at the same place.
2) "I use 3 of them." One of my personal favorite
answers. Since 3 of "them" could be anywhere from 3
pounds to 18 or more, it does not help the person trying to assist
in getting weights.
3) "They are the square ones." This answer is usually
a follow-up from # 2 when trying to determine more accurately
the amount.
4) "Same as last year." As if every resort operator
or divemaster remembers everyone's needs.
5) "32"! An answer like this usually provokes another
question, if the diver is in the tropics, such as "Is that
what you wear at home?", which usually turns on a light and
the diver suddenly realizes they are diving in a skin only.
6)"I don't know. What do you think?" You don't want
to know what I think.
7) "Oh, 10 to 15 pounds." There is a 50 % increase
from 10 to 15! Also that leaves 11, 12, 13 and 14 as options.
Not a good answer.
The whole point is that weighting is very important. It is
a major aspect of a diver's training and therefore should be a
major part of a diver's preparedness. The old 10% rule which says
start at 10% of your body weight is too broad. First of all does
this mean in fresh or salt water? Does it mean a dive skin, a
3 mm shorty wetsuit or a full 6 mm farmer john and jacket, hood,
boots and gloves? These are just a few of many variables in weighting
oneself.
So where do you start if this is your first dive under different
conditions? Try asking your instructor or the divemaster for suggestions.
Or if a swimming pool is available, practice with some various
sized leads close by so adjustments can be made. Always have on
the same equipment you will be using at your dive. Remember to
add some extra for salt water.
After all is said and done, the most important thing is that
once you are satisfied with your weighting, write it down somewhere.
A log book is the obvious place. Many have an area for this. Keep
a record of where you were diving and what equipment was worn.
Now you will always have a starting point from where you can improve
your skills. It will make your first dive of the season or vacation
that much more fun. You'll also impress your divemaster.