Scuba diving is often referred to as a "recreational sport." However, the term "sport" sometimes implies erroneous connotations and limits understanding. Scuba diving can be an avocation or a vocation. It is a pastime, a pursuit, or even a lifestyle, that can be as limited or extensive as one makes it. A persons level of commitment, degree of skill, and types of equipment all depend on what he/she wants out of scuba diving. This paper includes discussions of: (1) medical and health considerations; (2) physical fitness; (3) swimming requirements; (4) scuba diving courses; and (5) equipment requirements and costs. (CW)