Saturation diving is a physically demanding occupation and, as such, divers must maintain peak physical condition to perform at the best of their abilities.

However, this can be difficult when the typical work-life balance is replaced by prolonged periods in a pressurised hyperbaric chamber.

The two-year study by Robert Gordon University, in conjunction with Fitnut, has been awarded a £127,000 ($A232,400) from the Scottish Government and the Technology Strategy Board.

RGU Sports and Exercise Science lecturer Dr Eimar Dolan will lead the program.

The research will look at lifestyle choices during work periods and home-leave to ascertain and promote beneficial changes in both environments, which will protect and prolong divers' health and vitality.

Not only will the wellness program address physical activity in confined spaces, it will also experiment with foods to provide divers with high-nutrient meals that are not affected in terms of taste or smell when compressed before entering the pressurised chamber.

Fitnut managing director Penny McIntosh said the aim of the partnership with RGU was to support the development of specifically designed and evidence-based training and nutritional programs for saturation divers.

"We believe there is an opportunity to study their lifestyles both on and offshore to improve health and wellbeing through education and engagement in a wellness program, thereby minimising the health risks of the highly technical and complicated nature of their working environment," she said.