Aquatic Programs

This “Learn to Scuba” training course is designed to promote safe diving practices & prepare you for a lifetime of recreational diving. After completing the academic (online) & pool (confined-water) training portions of the course, Scuba Trainees will be required to perform open-water dive in a lake (local certification weekend) or ocean (Universal Referral) to attain a Scuba Diver certification (additional costs apply). Your scuba certification will permit you to scuba dive within the limits of your training & at recreational dive limits anywhere in the world. After completing your registration, you will receive an email including a link & unique access code to start your academic sessions (once started, this portion of the program is non-refundable).

Pool sessions take place at the University of Guelph Athletics Centre, Red Pool. Bring a towel, swimsuit, swimming goggles & something to take notes for first pool session. Taking the course will depend on your age, medical conditions, and in-water comfort level. You will be required to complete a confidential medical form, which you will review with your instructor. Your health & medical state will be assessed for contraindications. Certain medical conditions might preclude you from scuba diving or may require further assessment by a medical professional before continuing with the course. People who are healthy & fit generally have no issues.

Swimming Ability & Equipment: Participants must have basic swimming skills (ability to swim 200m & tread water for 10 min). A swim test will be conducted at the first pool session, including laps of the pool, an underwater swim & a treading water exercise. Participants must demonstrate these skills to a level of satisfaction to continue with the course. Participants are required to provide their own mask, fins & snorkel as well as weights & weight belt. A local dive shop will provide info about equipment packages at attractive prices during the first pool session. Rentals are available at a cost of $75.00.

Participants will increase their awareness of personal safety. Swimmers will have an opportunity to set personal goals and develop their progress in a small class environment. This program is suitable for new swimmers, right up to experienced swimmers looking for stroke correction and endurance.