Underwater sports

Underwater sports are competitive or non-competitive activities performed below the surface of the water, which require some level of physical exertion. Some of these sports are conducted in a swimming pool, while others are carried out in natural bodies of water like seas, lakes, and rivers.

Types of Underwater Sports

There are several types of underwater sports, including:

• Underwater Hockey: Also known as Octopush, this is a globally played limited-contact sport in which two teams compete to maneuver a puck across the bottom of a swimming pool into the opposing team's goal by propelling it with a pusher.

• Underwater Rugby: This is a team sport played underwater in a pool, with two teams trying to place a slightly negatively buoyant ball into the opponents’ goal at the bottom of a swimming pool.

• Underwater Orienteering: This is a sport that uses recreational open circuit scuba diving equipment and consists of a set of individual and team events that test the competitors’ abilities to navigate under water while using a diving compass and a waterproof map.

• Spearfishing: This is an ancient method of fishing that has been used throughout the world for millennia. Modern spearfishing makes use of elastic powered spearguns and slings, or compressed gas pneumatic powered spearguns, to strike the hunted fish.

• Underwater Photography: This is a popular recreational and professional activity in which divers take photographs while underwater.

Safety and Training

Safety is a major concern in underwater sports. Participants are required to undergo training in Scuba Diving and must be aware of the potential risks and hazards of the sport. This includes understanding the effects of water pressure on the body, the risk of Decompression Sickness, and the importance of maintaining and checking equipment.

Competitions and Organizations

Underwater sports are governed by international organizations such as the World Underwater Federation (CMAS). Competitions are held at various levels, from local and national to international championships.

See Also

• Water Sports
• Scuba Diving
• Free-diving