Do you ever wonder why do scuba divers dive backwards into the water? In this article we will try to explain the reasons why divers dive backwards into the water, as there is a couple of valid reasons why. Firstly, entering the water backward is called the ‘backward roll entry’, ‘back entry’ or ‘backroll’.
There are a number of reasons why a scuba diver does a backward roll entry. With the main reasons been that it offers better control when entering the water and it is safer especially if on a small boat.
In this post, we will go through why do scuba divers dive backwards. Let’s get started!
Read more on common questions asked by divers
The Basics Of The Backward Roll
To enter the water doing a backward roll entry involves the diver sitting on the edge of a small boat. If on a small boat which could mean that it is no more than three or four feet from the water surface.
Next, the diver holds their regulator in place while using their fingertips to holds their mask. With their left hand free to manage any loose hoses.
Next, tuck your chin in towards your chest, then fall back into the water. Once in the water swim away from the boat and then give an okay signal to the crew on the boat.
The Reasons For Doing The Backward Roll
There are a number of reasons to enter the water via backward roll. Here are a few of the main reasons.
Better Control Of Gear When Entering The Water
Firstly, you are able to keep a better hold on your regulator and facemask preventing it from filling with water or losing it altogether. With the tank on breaks water and reducing the impact making you’ll dive in more smoothly.
Secondly, diving fins can get damaged from other entry methods. This is because the diving fins will collide or impact with the water surface or an object in the water causing them to break.
Safety
Safety is the most important consideration when going diving. Falling backwards is considered a very safe entry method.
Small Boats
The backward roll entry is the most popular since this entry is among the easiest and the most practical for any type of boats, especially on smaller boats on lower platforms.
For small boats, the backward roll is the safest option to ensure that the boat remains stable. As you enter the water, this may cause the boat may rock dramatically, as where the backward roll keeps this unsteadiness to a minimum.
Underwater Obstacles
There might be an underwater obstacle, that would hit the tank first instead of your. If anything were to go wrong during a backward entry, you would have the advantage of being face up in the water instead of face down.
Other Entry Techniques
There are 2 other well-known methods to enter the water, which are.
- The giant stride.
- The seated entry.
The Giant Stride
This is popular on dive boats, where you can gear up and get ready to enter. Firstly, do the final checks and then put your hand on your regulator and mask.
Next, ensuring that the water is clear before taking a large step into the water as if we were walking forward. Ensuring not to accidentally hitting the side of the boat with the tank.
The Seated Entry
This method is used if there is a limited space entry or an unstable surface. You need the platform to the surface. When all geared up, you can sit on the edge of the boat with your legs over the side.
You can then lift your body over the edge with both arms and then turn around so that you’re facing the boat.
Wrapping Up
Finally, scuba divers dive backwards because they have better control of their equipment, and can protect their gear when entering the water. The backward roll is also the easiest, safest, and most comfortable entry into the water and easier to hold mask and belt when entering.
As well as reduces the rocking in the smaller type of boats that can occur when the diver enters the water which can affect the safely of others on the boat.
And that’s it for now! I’d love to know if this guide on why do scuba divers dive backwards has helped you. Let me know if you have any questions and let me know if there is more to add.
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