What is the recommended ascent rate for a normal air dive?

The recommended ascent rate for a normal air dive is 60 feet per minute. This ascent rate helps minimize the risk of decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends." Ascending too quickly can lead to nitrogen bubbles forming in the bloodstream, which can cause serious health issues.

The standard ascent rate of 60 feet per minute allows divers to safely off-gas nitrogen absorbed during the dive. This rate provides a balance between the need to return to the surface efficiently and the physiological requirements of the body to eliminate excess nitrogen. Additionally, this ascent rate is often reinforced by the concept of making safety stops at designated depths, further enhancing safety as divers transition from underwater to surface conditions.

The other rates provided are either too fast or not widely recommended for regular recreational dives, which underscores the importance of adhering to the standard ascent rate for safety.