Webfooted

Jefferson resident embracing challenge of the ring

Webfoot — Thu, 17 May 2012 05:00:57 +0000

In the rear of a Dover industrial complex, a single back door opens up to a set of carpeted stairs that lead from the litter-filled parking lot down a long hallway to the building’s basement, where the telltale sounds of young men learning a violent trade – pumping rap music, the hiss of tights breaths shooting from between pursed lips, a constant “thump, thump, thump” of a leather-wrapped fist hitting a bag – can be heard.

It’s here, in this Spartan environment filled with swaying heavy bags, jump ropes, speed bags, and a single boxing ring, that 23-year-old Jefferson native Steve Wachtel has begun to ply his craft, and started a journey that he hopes, one day, will place him under the brightest of boxing’s lights.

For now though, he’s got a lot to learn, and during a sparring match with the Dover Boxing Club’s (DBC) resident pugilistic prodigy, Golden Gloves champ and future professional Anthony Gangemi, Wachtel is quickly finding out that in boxing, there are no easy lessons.

Their coach, the 59-year-old Ed Leahy, stands outside the ring watching the action with a careful eye, offering a non-stop stream of advice.

“Don’t be a headhunter! Take the body once in a while! Body, head, body, head!” he yells. “Now, Steve, you fight back!”

But that might be the one phrase that he doesn’t need to tell the 5 foot 10 inch, 152 lb. Wachtel – as Leahy later put it, his charge doesn’t know the meaning of the phrase “back up.”

When the session ends, the dark-haired Wachtel takes off his headgear and steps out of the ring with a smile on his face and a smear of blood on the chest of his sweat-soaked white t-shirt.

The sport, which he came to just a year ago, has enveloped him, and he’s found the competition addicting.

The new boxer is sporting a 6 – 3 record in the amateurs, and just recently fought in the state’s Golden Gloves tournament, where he tore off two solid wins before losing in two brawls that led to his elimination – losses that Leahy attributes more to questionable judging and the ugly nature of the fights, which he said made his fighter look like he was struggling more than he was.

“You have to endure those along with the wins too,” says Leahy as he sits behind the front desk of the club after closing. “Otherwise, you don’t get better.”

Thankfully, Wachtel’s puncher’s style doesn’t often leave room for slim decisions, and he’s developed enough power in his right hand that the judges often have light work when he fights.

That right hand led him to victory during the NJ State LBC Championship Boxing Tournament in February, where, at the Newark Airport Marriott, he won three fights in a row, including a third-round TKO victory in the finals that gave him a first-place finish in his weight class.

And that style fits Wachtel just fine; as affable as he is outside the ring, his eyes burn when he speaks on the thrill of going toe-to-toe with another fighter.

“I like to get in there and slug it out…I’m not really a runner. I just like to bang,” he says with a smile.

สัมผัสชีวิตใต้ท้องทะเลไทย-“สิทธิผลวีแคร์”พาน้องไปดำน้ำ (ชมคลิป) : มติชนออนไลน์

Webfoot — Wed, 16 May 2012 05:01:11 +0000

รับชมข่าว VDO

กลุ่มสิทธิผล “We care” ร่วมกับ มูลนิธิเพื่อทะเล และ สำนักงานกองทุนสนับสนุนการสร้างเสริมสุขภาพ (สสส.) จัดโครงการ เยาวชนสัมผัสชีวิตใต้ท้องทะเลไทย รุ่นที่ 10 ในระหว่างวันที่ 25 เม.ย.-2 พ.ค. 2555 ที่เกาะไหง ทะเลตรัง

โครงการนี้จัดมาอย่างต่อเนื่องเพื่อเปิดโอกาสให้เยาวชนได้ใช้เวลาว่างให้เกิดประโยชน์ ในช่วงปิดภาคเรียนฤดูร้อน พร้อมปลูกจิตสำนึกการอนุรักษ์ระบบนิเวศน์ใต้ท้องทะเลไทยผ่านกิจกรรมอบรมดำน้ำ ถ่ายทอดทั้งภาคทฤษฎีและปฏิบัติ

กิจกรรมดังกล่าว เปิดโอกาสให้เยาวชนที่มีอายุตั้งแต่ 13 – 20 ปี ใช้เวลาว่างให้เกิดประโยชน์ในช่วงปิดภาคเรียน ส่งผลงานประกวดเรียงความ ความยาว 1 หน้ากระดาษ A4 หัวข้อ โลกร้อน ทะเลล้า ซึ่งปีนี้มีน้องๆ ให้ความสนใจกว่า 200 คน

จากนั้นคัดเลือกเยาวชนจำนวน 30 คน สอบสัมภาษณ์ และต้องสามารถว่ายน้ำได้อย่างดี รวมทั้งผู้ปกครองเห็นชอบ เดินทางไปฝึกอบรมดำน้ำจากอาจารย์ผู้เชี่ยวชาญ ที่เกาะไหง ทะเลตรัง นานถึง 1 สัปดาห์

ตลอดระยะเวลา 7 วัน น้องๆ เรียนรู้การดำน้ำลึกแบบสกูบ้า ตามมาตรฐาน PADI หลักสูตร PADI Open Water Diver Course และศึกษาธรรมชาติของโลกใต้น้ำ รู้จักปลาต่างๆ ที่น่าสนใจ

เรียนรู้ระบบนิเวศน์และห่วงโซ่อาหาร ผลกระทบต่างๆ ที่จะเกิดขึ้นจากการถูกทำลายของระบบนิเวศน์ใต้น้ำ

หลังจากจบหลักสูตรน้องๆจะได้รับประกาศนียบัตรจากสถาบัน PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructor) เพื่อเป็นเครื่องยืนยันถึงการผ่านหลักสูตรเรียนดำน้ำ ที่สถาบันทั่วโลกให้การยอมรับ และสามารถนำไปเข้าร่วมกิจกรรมเรียนดำน้ำระดับขั้นสูงขึ้นอีกด้วย

นับเป็นโครงการดีๆ ที่นอกจากให้เยาวชนใช้เวลาว่างเป็นประโยชน์แล้ว ยังบ่มเพาะความรักและหวงแหนท้องทะเลไทย เพื่อมิให้ถูกทำลายไปมากกว่านี้

อัญชัญ พัฒนประเทศ…..รายงาน

Red Sea Diving and Snorkeling – A Wonderful Experience

Webfoot — Thu, 10 May 2012 13:12:50 +0000

If you are a lover of the ocean and spend any time in Egypt, then you owe it to yourself to try the diving and snorkeling that are available in the Red Sea. Heading to the beach of the Red Sea is an absolute essential, as the pristine waters provide the ideal conditions for diving past times. A chance to explore the Red Sea and discover just why it has such a great reputation for the beautiful views and unforgettable snorkeling and diving experiences. It is surely not to be missed.

One of the main reasons why the Red Sea is a place that must be visited, is because of the life under the ocean. It is one of the most wildly diverse areas in the world. There are more than 1100 species of catalogued fish, where you will find approximately ten percent that are unique to the location. This rich diversity is due to the 5000 to 7000 year old reefs that extend along the coastline. These reefs offer shelter, not only the 1100 or so species of fish, but also to approximately 44 different species of shark. If you are considering going on a dive in the Red Sea, you should certainly be prepared to experience beautiful specimens of sea life with exquisite clarity.

There are widely available services for diving and snorkeling that are very keen and eager to help you get on your way on the Egyptian coasts of the Red Sea. There are certain services available which offer full instruction by fully licensed and experienced staff for snorkeling or scuba equipment. Or if you are a fully qualified diver you will simply have pointed out to you the best locations. All diving equipment can be rented, however, you are more than welcome to use your own personal equipment, if you have it with you.

Very often not thought of, but snorkeling is an ideal sport for children. They can be introduced to some of the most beautiful places on the planet. Of course, it is absolutely necessary that your child be comfortable under the water and wearing a mask, in order for them to experience such a breathtaking opportunity. It is a good idea to get your child used to wearing a mask before arriving at the Red Sea. Perhaps your child could wear a mask whilst in the bath in order to get used to the feeling of it. But remember that this is only if your child wants to.

One of the best reasons for visiting the Red Sea and taking up the opportunity of snorkeling, is the opportunity to experience a living ecosystem which is in full action. Schools of fish interacting can be seen along with solitary fish darting around each other in the coral reefs, right before your very own eyes. Keep an eye out for the symbiotic relationship of the clown fish and the sea anemone. As the clown fish amazingly glide between the poisonous tentacles of the sea anemones, watch as the colorful stingers float in the water.

Dahab is a small town on the southeast coast of the Sinai Peninsula, which is a spectacular place to dive. This former Bedouin town is internationally renowned for scuba diving and snorkeling, and there are many reefs available that are adjacent to the shore.

One site that is recommended for skilled divers, as this idyllic spot has a reputation for danger, is the Blue Hole. The Blue Hole is a 100 meter deep and 50 meter wide cave, which is only a few miles to the north, that holds a variety of marine life, which is absolutely awe-inspiring.

One of Egypt’s favorite attractions is Ras Muhammad National Park. This is yet another dive site, which is certainly worth considering. This park was established by the government as a marine reserve in 1983. It holds more than 200 species of corals, 40 species of starfish and more than 150 species of crustaceans. Ras Mohammed National Park certainly earns its international reputation as one of the world’s best diving locations. At times, and with a little luck, you can also catch sight of the rare green sea turtle and the hawksbill sea turtle.

If you and your family are considering a visit to Egypt, then snorkeling and diving in the Red Sea is certainly something that you should try. There is, of course, the added problem, that, once you have taken you first dive and seen the wonders that are on offer below the water, you may not want to return to land

The Diving Bell And The Butterfly

Webfoot — Thu, 10 May 2012 11:08:59 +0000

I watched a film last night. Just by chance I saw the promo for it while watching the television news service earlier in the week. I had heard something about the film a couple of years ago then forgotten about it, until now. The film was “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly”, which is the story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, the French Editor-in-Chief of Elle magazine. At forty-three Jean-Do, as he was known to his friends, had a stroke which left him completely paralysed other than the ability to blink his left eye. He suffered what is called “locked-in syndrome” where a person’s completely functional mind is locked in a body which no longer works. I liken it to being buried alive: shudder the thought. But here this man was, in that condition. With the aid of his speech therapist,Jean-Do was able to communicate by blinking when the letter of the alphabet he wanted was reached by someone reciting them in order. That way he could build words and at least get across what he was thinking. Before his stroke Jean-Do had a contract to write a book. He had plans to write about the Countess of Monte Cristo, same story of revenge, but with a woman as the lead character and set in the modern day. He decided to still write a book, but as an account of what his life was like, trapped in a non-functioning body. The publisher found him someone who was prepared to take the “dictation” one letter at a time. At one point in the film it is made clear that the process was extremely long and tedious. At least in the beginning it took about 5 hours to write one page The closing scene opens with him asking, through his one letter at a time process “Do we have a book?” The ‘secretary” held up a copy of the published work for him to see. He had done it. Amazing story. What really struck home for me, however, were a number of touching moments when, with the aid of a voice over, Jean-Do’s thoughts were shared throughout the film. He made the point that although he was no longer able to experience things with his physical body, much like being in a deep-sea diving bell, he still had his memories and imagination which gave him the freedom of a butterfly to experience any thing he chose, anywhere, any time. Truly a touching film, “poignant” the critics called it. I have his book on my short list of must reads. As i reflected on the film I put myself in Jean-Do’s place. How would I cope if something like that ever happened to me? My wife and I have discussed my wishes should something ever happen to me. It was quite natural for us because she works in aged care and has to deal with death and dying in her daily work. I remember at the time of our discussion, the point at which I wanted no further active treatment would be when I could no longer communicate. Watching the film took me back to that discussion. Here was a man, who, but for the training and insight of a speech therapist would have been trapped for the rest of his life with no way of relating to the world outside his body. Yet, the tone of the film was very positive Though everything we take for granted had been taken away from him, Jean-Do was very much alive. Such is the tenacity of the human spirit. Even in our worst possible moments, surrounded by destruction and devastation, that little flame of life burns bright. That for me is the inspiring story of Jean-Dominique Bauby. Given his situation, Jean-Do’s story surely is the one that ranks as “things couldn’t possibly get any worse.” Yet despite that or, perhaps more, because of it, he was able to share his inspiring story with the rest of the world. He died only days after his book was published, but his legacy lives on. Rest easy Jean-Dominique Bauby your work here is finished.

Red Sea Diving and Snorkeling – A Wonderful Experience

Health and Fitness in Scuba Diving

Webfoot — Wed, 02 May 2012 04:36:53 +0000

Scuba diving is a relaxing activity, but of course you should be in good health. You will realize that there are times when strenuous activity comes into play, so you need to levels of health, fitness and conditioning sufficient to handle strenuous activity, which could include an emergency or other unanticipated physical demands. Being in good health helps assure that you can meet these demands, which in turns affects your safety. General diving health recommendations follow the same recommendations regarding rest and diet for everyday life. Never use alcohol, drugs or tobacco prior to diving. Alcohol and drugs, even in quantities that have minimal effect on the surface, can impair your judgment at depth, where pressure can increase your risk of decompression sickness. Be conservative if drinking the night before diving; alcohol tends to dehydrate you, which can also predispose you to decompression sickness. If you are taking prescription drug, discuss its effect with your physician prior to diving. If in doubt, don’t dive until you’re no longer using the medication. Avoid smoking which interferes with having an active lifestyle. Smoking is undeniable detrimental to your health. If you do smoke, abstain for several hours before and after diving because smoking significantly decreases the efficiency of your circulatory and respiratory systems. It also can promote air trapping within your lungs, theoretically raising your risk of lung over expansion injury – even when breathing normal. Don’t dive if you don’t feel well, including diving with a cold. Doing so can cause ear and sinus squeeze or reverse blocks due to equalization difficulties. Diving with a chest cold can produce air trapping, with a risk of lung over expansion injury. No one wants to miss out on a dive, but you should be in good health to dive safely. Don’t use medication to combat the symptoms so you can make a dive if you are not well. Maintain a reasonable degree of physical fitness and have a complete physical examination when you first enter diving, and at least every two years thereafter. Ideally, you should be examined by a physician knowledgeable in dive medicine. Keep your immunizations current; this is especially important for your tetanus and typhoid immunization. Keep a well-balanced diet and get proper rest. Maintain a regular exercise program – you don’t have to be an Olympian, just in good average health.

Scuba Diving or Snorkeling – What’s Right for You?

Webfoot — Wed, 02 May 2012 03:25:06 +0000

Let’s look at the basic differences between scuba diving and snorkeling so you can make the best informed decision about which to choose. There are differences in physical fitness ability, training, and equipment, as well as psychological implications you should consider when making a choice. Beginning with your purpose, is this a recreational activity to observe fish, algae and reefs, with few waves? If you can float comfortably on your stomach with your face and nose in the water, (with a diving mask and snorkel tube it is easy to breathe in and out) bobbling along in the gentle surf, then snorkeling is your best option. Occasionally the tube can get filled with water, or if you hold your breath and dive, so all you have to do is forcibly blow the water out of the tube. It is common to wear swim fins which adds power to your leg push when you skim over shallow reefs or need extra power to dive a short distance. If your choice is snorkeling, there is no need for specific training, and you don’t necessarily have to know how to swim but have access to a safety vest that allows for simple paddling in shallow areas. Psychologically, if you aren’t very familiar with swimming or have had little access to water, prepare by sitting near the shore and then float in shallow water with your safety vest. It is important to learn how to hold your breath under water for short periods of time, and then you are off, into the magical world of fish, sea turtles, and shells. Another word about safety when you are snorkeling; your greatest danger is not being seen by water craft and jet skis because all that can be seen is your tube sticking out of water. A reflective snorkel tube or patches attached to the safety vest can help others see you in the water. A general rule of thumb is to leave coral and shells where they are in the water. Coming into contact with the wrong one can cause a poisonous reaction and is a snorkeling and scuba diving general warning. Scuba (Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) diving is a different method of observing or working underwater. Scuba diving includes recreational activities such as: cave and shipwreck diving, ice diving and cenote-to-cenote trips. A big difference between scuba diving and snorkeling is the amount of training and level of physical fitness. Just like learning to drive a car, not only will you need a PADI (Professional Association of Dive Instructors) certificate proving you know what you are doing, but you must be able to psychologically handle staying under water for extended periods of time while wearing a full face mask in which your nose and eyes are covered. You will inhale and exhale through a regulator mouthpiece connected to the oxygen tank on your back. Many dive shops and destination dive trips can provide three day performance based courses and include spectacular dive experiences as you learn. Prices will vary so do your homework ahead of time to make sure you get what you pay for and instructors are licensed themselves. Safety and health effects of scuba diving are specifically addressed during your training and should not be taken lightly. The effects of breathing compressed air can cause decompression sickness, nitrogen narcosis, oxygen toxicity, refraction and problems with vision. Don’t let this deter you from scuba diving but be sensible and proactive in assuring your safety and well-being. A major difference between scuba diving and snorkeling is the cost. Simple snorkeling only requires a facemask and air tube, with swim fins optional but very helpful. Often in areas where water sports are a big draw, you will be able to cheaply rent equipment for the day or inexpensively purchase at a local sporting goods store. PADI courses that include open water and check-out dives can cost up to $400 depending on where you go, but it is always possible to rent equipment instead of purchasing the scuba gear. Whether you choose snorkeling or scuba diving, the relaxation and fun you will have is an opportunity into the undersea world of magic and enchantment. Take into consideration how much you would like to spend, your level of experience and physical ability, and the extent to which you want to invest time and money.

Health and Fitness in Scuba Diving

Harbour Village Beach Club, Bonaire's Only Member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Offers Unique Luxury Diving Vacations for the Whole Family

Webfoot — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 01:57:50 +0000

Coral Gables, FL (PRWEB) February 23, 2012 As the only member property in Bonaire included in the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Harbour Village Beach Club lets guests experience the finest luxury hotel accommodations and amenities on the island. Children and adults can also look forward to thrilling marine adventures during their stay at the premier resort, as Harbour Village Beach Club offers luxury diving packages through its official diving outfit, Great Adventures Bonaire. Located along the beach and just steps away from the resort’s world-class rooms and suites, Great Adventures Bonaire provides daily boat dives as well as personalized service and activities that the whole family can enjoy. The fun, lively, and multilingual staff at this PADI five-star resort facility offers a unique Children’s Program, which includes many exciting activities such as SASY or Supplied Air Snorkeling for Youth (ages 5+), Bubble Maker (ages 8+), and the dive instruction and certification program (ages 10+). Meanwhile, certified divers hoping to combine their passion for diving and luxury hotel accommodations can take advantage of Harbour Village Beach Club’s luxury diving packages, namely the “Dive into Luxury” and the “Club Dive Special.” Both include several nights’ stay at the resort, boat diving and unlimited shore diving with tanks, weights and belts, as well as daily breakfast, free airport transfers and unlimited use of the resort’s fitness center, tennis courts, and kayaks. As one of the leading luxury hotels in the area, guests staying at Harbour Village Beach Club can expect luxury hotel accommodations and facilities, as well as the best diving opportunities in the Caribbean. For ten consecutive years, the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire has been voted as the Best Overall Dive Destination by Scuba Diving Magazine’s Reader’s Choice Awards. For more information on Bonaire and Harbour Village Beach Club, visit the luxury hotel’s website at http://www.harbourvillage.com/ or call 1-800-424-0004 for inquiries on the resort’s luxury diving packages. About Harbour Village Beach Club: Harbour Village Beach Club is Bonaires only member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and is also recognized by the World Travel Awards as the island’s Leading Hotel for seven consecutive years. Aside from providing excellent hotel accommodations, the resort also offers a wide variety of luxury diving packages and activities for its guests through its PADI five-star instructor development dive resort facility, Great Adventures Bonaire. To learn more about the luxury hotel and its official diving outfit, visit http://www.harbourvillage.com/diving.html or call 1-800-424-0004.

Roatan, Honduras

Webfoot — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 01:55:00 +0000

Roatan is located off the coast of Honduras and is an island get-a-way that will please those from colder climates that are searching for warm waters and a tropical setting. This is a destination that has many activities for adults and children alike. The beaches are powdered sand that feels heavenly and the accommodations and restaurants are very affordable. If you are looking for a tropical vacation, this may be just the spot for you. The chance to see a culture totally different than what you are familiar with is always interesting to tourists. In addition, Roatan has many water activities such as scuba diving, swimming and snorkeling. Diving is another option that can be done as little as 100 feet away from the beach. This island is the second largest barrier reef in the world. Other activities include fishing and horseback tours of this beautiful island. Sandy Bay is where the Institute of Marine Sciences is located as well as the Roatan Museum. Anthony’s Key Resort offers diving and the Carambola Gardens are located here as well. Half Moon Bay is an area on the island that is often called ‘Gringo Central’. The atmosphere here is relaxed and laid back with a rustic look. The restaurants, hotels, shops and bars are all along the street that runs along the bay. The bars, hotels and restaurants are very inexpensive. If you are looking for a place to relax in t-shirts, shorts and sandals and go with the flow, this is definitely the place to be. Do you want to know about more cool places to visit and some cool ways to get discountson travel?

Harbour Village Beach Club, Bonaire's Only Member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Offers Unique Luxury Diving Vacations for the Whole Family

Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya Offers Padi Scuba Certification With its 'Submerged in Riviera Maya' Program

Webfoot — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:23:22 +0000

Mexico (PRWEB) October 7, 2008 -

Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya, in conjunction with Underwater Expeditions is offering scuba diving vacations where guests can receive their PADI certification while enjoying a luxury retreat at the resort. Expert scuba guides will introduce guests to an amazingly plentiful marine world in the warm, pristine waters of the Caribbean Sea for a memorable scuba experience.

The Submerged in Riviera Maya program begins with class and pool instruction at the resort followed by four exciting dives. Scuba instructors from Underwater Expeditions will take guests by boat from the resort to nearby colorful reefs to see rays, angel fish, parrot fish, blue tang, occasionally turtles and much more. The first two dives are typically to 40 foot depth range and the final two dives to 60 feet. Guests will find out why Riviera Maya is rated one of the best places in the world for scuba diving and after getting certified the waters of the world will be theirs to explore.

The Submerged in Riviera Maya package includes:

Luxurious accommodation for four nights
Daily American Breakfast
Day one: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Class and pool training session at the hotel and 1st open water dive to 12m/40ft

Day two: 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Class and 2nd open water dive to 12m/40ft
(lunch and light snacks included)

Day three: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Class and written exam, final two open water dives to 18m/60ft (lunch and light snacks included)

Top-of-line gear and diving manual materials provided by Underwater Expeditions

Rates for the package based on a four-night stay for one scuba diver are as follows:
Rates begin at $2900 from October 1, 2008 to December 19, 2008. From January 3, 2009 to April 30, 2009, rates are from $3800. From May 1, 2009 to December 19, 2009, rates are from $2900.

The package price covers the cost of all Riviera Maya Scuba package activities, scuba gear and accommodations for four nights and breakfast. Additional nights may be added at prevailing rates. This package is valid year-round. Subject to availability and does not include room tax and service charge.

The PADI Scuba program by Underwater Expeditions offers a standardized curriculum that is recognized around the world as the industry standard for recreational scuba.

For more information or reservations, please contact the hotel directly on +52 (984) 877 3888, toll free reservations in the United States at (800) 526 6566; or Mandarin Orientals direct on-line reservations service at http://www.mandarinoriental.com.

About Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya
Nestled along an idyllic coastline on the dramatic Yucatan peninsula, Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya delivers an experience of luxury, well-being and exclusivity. A naturalists paradise, the resort features protected mangrove reserves and crystal-clear water from naturally formed lagoons and streams, highlighted by a spectacular cenote, a deep, freshwater reservoir sacred to the ancient Mayan that serves as the complexs centerpiece. Ideally situated, the resort is only 10 minutes north of Playa del Carmen in bustling Riviera Maya, with its dining, entertainment, specialty shops and boutiques, and just a 30-minute drive from Cancn International Airport.

About Underwater Expeditions of Riviera Maya
Underwater Expeditions has been operating in Riviera Maya for more than a decade and manages the water sports facilities at Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya. Activities range from kayak, parasail to catamaran sailing and kite surfing, deep sea fishing and fly fishing. A comprehensive range of snorkeling and dive tours are also offered. Underwater Expeditions is involved in reef protection and conservation and actively participates in marine restoration programs throughout the Riviera Maya.

Photography of Mandarin Oriental is available to download, in high and low resolution, in the Photo Library of our Media section, at http://www.mandarinoriental.com.

For further information, please contact:
Alexandra Wensley, Director of Communications
Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya
Telephone: (305) 913-8333
E-mail: awensley @ mohg.com

http://www.mandarinoriental.com

'Fit for SCUBA' Is a Fitness Guide Developed for Scuba Divers by Scuba Divers

Webfoot — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:22:20 +0000

Toms River, NJ (PRWEB) June 29, 2006 Exercise Physiologists, Jessica and Jaime Adams, have created a fitness program designed specifically for scuba divers. Fit for SCUBA is currently available for sale at http://www.bbotw.com, amazon.com and will soon be available for purchase through Divers Alert Network. Divers are concerned with safety; they have buddies, follow dive plans, keep dive logs, and complete routine gear maintenance. However, many divers neglect their most vital piece of equipmenttheir bodies. Due to common misconceptions, scuba diving has been highly ignored by the fitness industry. Dive gear alone places an additional load on the body. The physical demands of entries and exits must also be considered. Above all, scuba divers must always be physically and mentally prepared for challenging conditions that may arise in this dynamic underwater world. Almost every diver has a story about a difficult exit from the water or a challenging current. Fit for SCUBA is a tool for becoming a safer, more fit diver. The simple instructions and illustrations in this manual can help improve diver fitness. Participating in a fitness program may improve diver's confidence, and quality of life. The authors have provided a fitness plan for divers to follow. Fitness should be a regular part of life, in order to maintain these improvements. Exercise should be just as much a part of a regular routine as taking a shower and brushing your teeth. The best program for each diver is one that will be realistically maintained for years to come. For this reason, Fit for SCUBA contains a set of exercises that can be done at home as well as a set of exercises for the gym. This program should be a part of every diver's daily routine, regardless of location. Although most divers would probably like to be immersed in water every day, the reality is that most are forced to be weekend warriors due to the commitments of daily life. Unfortunately, this lifestyle may cause the typical recreational scuba diver to only be active on weekends or dive vacations. This type of exercise schedule results in minimal training and may lead to injuries. It also does not prepare divers for the unexpected challenges that may be encountered during a dive. An increased level of comfort in the water will set the tone for a more enjoyable scuba experience. Increased energy can be utilized during dive vacations both in and out of the water. A proper fitness program will prepare divers to more effectively deal with the challenges that may arise during a dive. Improved muscular strength will minimize the stress of pre- and post-dive equipment handling. Entries and exits will also be completed with greater ease. Increased muscular and cardiovascular efficiency may improve diving comfort and confidence. Improved strength, flexibility, and balance will add comfort to maneuvering around a rocking boat, particularly when wearing your gear. Divers will benefit from increased confidence in personal capabilities allowing a more relaxing and enjoyable underwater experience. Fit divers will also experience a boost in overall energy levels Some additional benefits of exercise include:

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Improved cardiovascular health Weight control Lower blood lipids Decreased blood pressure Increased bone density Psychological benefits Health one of the essential commitments in every person's life. For a more relaxed scuba diving experience, divers will benefit from a conditioning program which improves flexibility, strength, endurance, and balance. The human body is a unique machine that responds directly to training. The human body is the only piece of equipment that is irreplacable, so divers must take care of it This fitness program has been developed with the needs of scuba divers, in mind. Strength is developed in areas of the body that are utilized during a dive. Fit for SCUBA provides guidelines for divers to create a fitness programs that meet the needs of each diver. No single fitness program exists that will be successful for each diver. This book provides the tools to create a program that will fit individual lifestyles and yield the desired results. A successful fitness program takes planning as well as commitment, just like a successful dive It is every diver's responsibility to be proactive in preparation for a safe and exciting scuba diving experience. Provided one is physically fit, no upper age limit exists for scuba diving. Fortunately, diving can be a life long activity if the proper level of fitness is maintained. Fit for SCUBA supplies the knowledge to create a program which will allow scuba diving to be a life long physical activity. Divers should retire from work, not from diving, so maintaining a level of fitness which allows safe appreciation of the underwater world is paramount. Divers can make the most of each diving experience by improving fitness.and may even add years to their lives.