Why Every Certified Diver Should Take the Nitrox (Enriched Air) Specialty
The Nitrox (Enriched Air) Specialty If you’ve been diving for a while, you’ve probably heard other divers talk about nitrox —the common name for Enriched Air. Maybe you’ve even noticed other divers analyzing tanks with special stickers before a dive and wondered what the fuss is about. So why should you, as a certified diver, consider taking the PADI Enriched Air (Nitrox) Specialty? If you’re diving around the Gili Islands, the answer is simple: the benefits are real, immediate, and make every dive better. What is Nitrox, and Why Does It Matter? Nitrox, or Enriched Air, is simply air with a higher percentage of oxygen and less nitrogen. The standard tank you’ve probably used since your Open Water Course contains about 21% oxygen. Nitrox usually contains 32% or 36% oxygen. Why does this matter? Because it’s nitrogen that limits your bottom time and makes you tired after repetitive dives. By reducing the amount of nitrogen you breathe, nitrox allows you to stay at depth longer withi...
