how have you changed in your general life due to your training and experiences in freediving ?

I freedive to spearfish not as a purist activity as such, so changes reflect spearfishing.............. I think I have always exercised but now do more leg strengthening and core stuff such as leg criss cross and scissor raises, dead lifts, squats, calf raises etc. I use a heavy pole spear that needs a big band so use free weights to strengthen my grip, shoulders and back. I do yoga for flexibility and breathing and very occasionally practice breath holds but for me relaxation is more important I think so concentrate on that............. I am not overly concerned about a massively long breath hold, just as well really! Also I spend down time on here of course and constantly think of new ways to rig or change my setup............ it all takes time you know

divebike said:

The title is the thread, all are welcome.

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First up, I returned to Freediving as a focus for getting back my fitness and to lose weight. In 18 months I shifted 4st (56lb or 25kg) and I'm back into regular exercise to support my diving. At 48 I have now the physical shape as when I was half that age albeit with the aches of a forty something ;-) The aim of the weight loss was to then order a made-to-measure wetsuit with the view to keeping the weight off to remain in the suit. That's worked so far.

Secondly, on my path to improving my awareness, I have started adopting Mindfulness techniques in much of what I do. Before and during breath holds I employ relaxation techniques and acceptance to help me concentrate and deal with the physical and psychological aspects of breath holds.

My running used to cause me constantly sore muscles, in my lower legs, despite extensive stretching and warm-ups. Upon applying simple relaxation techniques during my running I have not experienced any muscle aches, due to the running, from that point onwards... a very profound change and far more effective than expensive compression tights and its completely free. So, throw away your Skins and just learn to relax.

I often turn to meditation, during commuting or other periods of waiting, and find this both relaxing, enjoyable and it helps me to improve my concentration. A much more worth while activity than constantly thumbing my smart phone or mindlessly watching catch-up advertising, sorry did I say advertising I meant TV ;-)

All in all, Freediving has enabled me to learn more about myself and to do things that make my life in general more enjoyable.