Disciplines
Specializations
After completing basic training, every member is free to choose a specialization — more than one, without restriction. The system was deliberately chosen over rigid divisions.
Caving / Speleology
The science of cave exploration: vertical rope techniques, horizontal passage travel, cave mapping, and the geology and ecology of karst, including surveys of its conservation potential.
Whitewater sports (ORAD)
Rafting, river boarding, kayaking and canyoning: reading currents and rapids, paddling technique and teamwork, descending canyons and waterfalls, and river safety and rescue. DIAZ members competed as athletes at the National Games (PON).
Scuba Diving
Diving with breathing apparatus: dive planning and safety, equipment mastery, underwater navigation and underwater rescue. DIAZ members have also competed as diving athletes at the National Games (PON).
Rock / Wall Climbing
Natural rock and artificial wall climbing: movement technique, protection and knots, Single Rope Technique and rappelling, and risk management at height.
Conservation
The science of caring for the environment: the basics of ecology, river-basin surveys, tree planting, coral reef rehabilitation, and environmental education.
Search and Rescue
Search and rescue across difficult terrain: operation management, navigation, first aid, casualty evacuation and field communication.
Land Navigation
The science of finding position and direction outdoors: reading topographic maps and the compass, orienting in the field, planning a route, and using GPS as a complement.
Ultra Cycling
Long-distance endurance cycling: route and provisions planning, pacing and nutrition, bike maintenance on the road, and the physical readiness to cover hundreds, even thousands, of kilometres in a single ride.
Survival
The science of staying alive in the wild: building a shelter and a fire, finding and treating water, managing supplies, and deciding calmly when lost or caught in bad weather.
Leadership
The craft of leading in the field and in the organization: situational leadership, deciding under pressure and uncertainty, team and risk management, communication and the sharing of roles, and mentoring younger members.