Unknown new phase

[clavin2828]

During statics after enduring some of the harder contractions i sometimes get a very weird feeling. I've only pushed far enough to get this a few times. It's a full body sensation thats hard to explain but it makes the hold feel alot easier but still tough and it doesn't go away. The contractions seem to get lighter from what i remember and I only stayed in this phase for around 5-10 seconds before i stopped holding. I checked my pulse about a minute after i finished the hold and my pulse was 16 beats lower than resting but usually when i hold my breath my pulse doesn't drop much if at all. I know thats the dive reflex but would that mean its only kicking in right before and during this new phase and contributing to these new sensations? I'm definitely not complaining about the feeling cause it was awesome and seemed beneficial.

 

[divedeeper]

I'm no expert here but those "good sensations" around the body and the overall "good" feeling probably signals you're very close to a blackout. Be very careful when you get these feelings.

 

[ReefTroll]

"Euphoria."? Not always a good thing.

 

[shrek]

clavin2828 can you descibe your sensations or feelings in more depth? how long are your statics when you get to this stage?

 

[clavin2828]

clavin2828 can you descibe your sensations or feelings in more depth? how long are your statics when you get to this stage?

I'll have to experience it again to really be able to describe it. But i'm still a beginner so my static time isn't great and i get this feeling usually after 2:30. Contractions start from 55-65 seconds in and usually not soft.

 

[divedeeper]

Freediving is a sport unlike many others because it requires more focus than strength. So, holding your breath to these points of "euphoria" will not necessarily make you better, especially if youre a beginner. In fact, it might even be detrimental, seeing as you are risking blacking out. And of course, if you do this in the water, you may be risking death. I would suggest you work on your concentration during your holds; maintaining your calm and focusing on your body as a whole. For example, during my dry statics, I usually focus on different parts of my body and try to relax them. Im also a beginner, yet my times have improved drastically with this method.

Overall, the whole focusing thing makes Freediving a much more enjoyable sport.

All the best

 

[clavin2828]

Has anyone else experienced different feelings during contraction phase if its toward the end or beginning. What was it like.

 

[efattah]

I have experienced this 'phase' before. According to my experiments, this phase will only happen on breath-holds that have extremely low breathe-up (= very high CO2).

It most often happens to me during CO2 tables or pure oxygen statics, both of which involve extremely high CO2.

The phase is characterized by the appearance of CO2 narcosis, which creates a woozy, dizzy, buzzing feeling all over the body, a feeling of euphoria, and, incredibly, much easier contractions.

My normal CO2 table is 2 minute static, 1 breath, 2 minute static, 1 breath, etc.

This gets harder and harder. However if I can reach the CO2 narcosis zone, it gets easier and easier. I tested this with a capnograph, and the CO2 narcosis starts when my lung CO2 reaches more than 9.5%.

 

[clavin2828]

I have experienced this 'phase' before. According to my experiments, this phase will only happen on breath-holds that have extremely low breathe-up (= very high CO2).

It most often happens to me during CO2 tables or pure oxygen statics, both of which involve extremely high CO2.

The phase is characterized by the appearance of CO2 narcosis, which creates a woozy, dizzy, buzzing feeling all over the body, a feeling of euphoria, and, incredibly, much easier contractions.

My normal CO2 table is 2 minute static, 1 breath, 2 minute static, 1 breath, etc.

This gets harder and harder. However if I can reach the CO2 narcosis zone, it gets easier and easier. I tested this with a capnograph, and the CO2 narcosis starts when my lung CO2 reaches more than 9.5%.

Thanks. Yeah it seems to be exactly what you described. Is it safe to continue into this phase or anything else i should know about it?

I guess i should try and figure out a solid breathe up to do as well since atm i don't really do one just normal breathing.

 

[efattah]

If you are able to push into 'weird' phase for more than 90 seconds, you could risk having a CO2 blackout. This type of blackout is extremely rare, but possible.

 

[clavin2828]

Thanks for all the replies.

 

[Kars]

Since your contractions start already at 1 minute, I suggest you start doing daily CO2 schedules. Like others suggested learn to detect tension and learn to release tension while doing these CO2 schedules. Eric's schedule is very challenging and steep, so you may want to try for the Table A schedule, using half of your maximum time as the 'base time'
Static Apnea Tables by Freediver.co.uk and Freedivers.net :: Graphics by Mozzi

If I recall correctly, a CO2 blackout is something more nasty than an O2 BO, so do not go overboard with enjoying the CO2 high

Enjoy you mind and body

 

[clavin2828]

Thanks for the reply. I just ended up with a new PB of 3:21.

 

[KatFish]

It is probably just your dive response. Everyone feels it differently. If you're getting this feeling in static around 2-2:30, that's probably it, then yes it is a good thing - it means your body is starting to conserve oxygen, essentially kicking into a survival mode. Open your eyes for a moment, refocus then relax and keep pushing until you need to breathe. A good buddy could also help talk you through it.