Hazel Grove Sub Aqua Club, Stockport

The Snorkelling Instructers
	Matt Smith
	Alex Condren

Snorkelling Course

What is snorkelling?
For many people the water's edge is the limit of their activity andtheir Kno Snork1 wledge.
The world that lies beneath the surface holds fun and excitement for the snorkeller. As they explore this world they soon learn more about its inhabitants and the rich life to be found there.

This is one of the reason why people can become passionate about our underwater world .

As an activity, snorkelling is within the reach of practically everyone. It does not ask for expensive or complicated equipment, and the basics are easy to learn.

It's also ideal for people of practically all age groups and is perfect as a family activity or with friends.

How to get Started
While snorkelling is not a complicated activity there are a few things that will help to make it more enjoyable and safer for you.

You will be able to enjoy your snorkelling more if you know: Snork2

What to wear What your limits are
What could go wrong
What to do in an emergency
How to Maximise your time under water How to help others

The course will cover these topics as it introduces you to the fun that can be had from the activity.
If you are planning a holiday to a promising snorkelling destination then it may be the moment to get some instruction before you go, so that the whole family can enjoy an underwater experience together!

Fitness
Snorkelling requires a reasonable level of fitness, depending on how adventurous and active you plan to be. If in doubt, check with your doctor to see if there are any conditions that might limit your involvement.All participants must be able to swim at least 8 full lengths.

The Course?
It takes between 7-8 weeks for 1 hour each Friday. The course is open to members and non-members from the ages of 8 up and adults are more than welcome. The course itself involves a range of skills from mask clearing to rescue skills such as towing a casualty.The course takes place on Fridays at 8-9pm at Jacksons Lane Swimming Pool in Hazel Grove (5 min drive from the Tennis Club) and runs several times a year, with many of the participants moving on to diving at the club.

For further details contact Matt Smith here or email the webmaster here.

What will you need?
For snorkelling in warmer waters and of course the pool, the essential equipment consists of:
Fins - to propel us through the water efficiently
Mask - to help us see clearly when our eyes are immersed in water
Snorkel - so that we can continue to breathe comfortably when our face is in the water. In the Links section of the site are a list of shops that can assist you in picking the gear at reasonable prices.

Are instructors are happy to assist and advise on which equipment is best suited to you.

Comfort
The equipment is usually made of rubber and plastics compounds and should be sufficiently supple to fit well without any discomfort.
Sometimes we may spend many happy hours snorkelling, so it is important to make sure that everything fits well. We do however have a limited amount of equipment which we can lend people starting out.

Quality

Safe snorkelling requires quality equipment made for snorkelling or diving, so ensure that it is intended for the use you intend to put it to. Avoid low quality equipment that may have an attractive price but may fall down on comfort