Safe and sound training?

[Filto]

Hi!

I just got interested in freediving. I love snorkling and just spending time in the water. I'm going to Thailand this winter and thought that it would be fun to get abit better and pro longing time under water. I've been reading stuff at the forum and elsewhere and I'm abit confused to say the least.

I know that hyperventilating is a no-no but I get the impression that you shouldn't do any breathing techniques at all from some people cause they all seem to be some type of fooling your body? The basic question is I guess. Do you train your body to actually get physically better at holding your breath or is it primarily about learning ways to conserve energy (lower heartrate, relaxing and so on)?

I'm using an apnea app and follow the breathing pattern there. Inhale, hold, exale with longer and longer intervals. Will this help in the long run or is it just temporary? It may sound like a stupid question but I just want train in the best and safest way. I have no intention of pushing any type of limits while diving, for me its all about having fun.

 

[cdavis]

Mostly its about learning techniques that minimizes 02 use and learning how to kick in dive reflex as early as possible. Improving c02 tolerance and low 02 tolerence helps, but relaxation, efficient movement and dive reflex are usually more important.


As a beginner, don't get too concerned about hyperventilation, etc. There is a huge amt of very confusing stuff out there, available to read and get you flustered. It all has its place, but you don't need it yet.
Breath normally, then take a couple of deep breaths, then dive. After you have spent some time underwater, a lot of the stuff you read will make much more sense.

If you have access to even a very short course, it will help you immensely.

Have fun in Thailand!

Connor

 

[Filto]

Thanks for the great answer. Will relax and just enjoy myself