Free divers do not breathe underwater, but they utilize specific techniques to maximize air intake before a dive. Based on the provided reference, a key aspect of how free divers prepare by breathing involves filling their lungs in a particular way, expanding the rib cage while keeping the chest relatively still.
Pre-Dive Breathing Techniques
Before attempting a free dive, divers focus on deep relaxation and preparing their body to hold its breath for extended periods. A critical part of this preparation is the final breaths taken before submerging.
The Specific Breathing Method
The reference highlights a structured approach to taking the final, deep breaths:
- Body Posture: Your rib cage should expand, but your chest should remain still.
- Filling the Lungs: Air is drawn into specific regions of the lungs sequentially.
- Central Region: Begin by expanding your rib cage and directing air into the central part of your lungs.
- Upper Region: Open your mouth wide (unless using a snorkel) to fill the very upper region of your lungs, including the area near the collarbone and throat.
- Head Position: You can raise your head slightly to potentially facilitate taking in more air.
This technique aims to pack as much air into the lungs as possible efficiently, preparing the diver for the breath-hold dive. It contrasts with typical shallow breathing and focuses on fully utilizing lung capacity.
Key takeaway: Free divers prepare for their dives by taking deep, strategic breaths that fill their lungs from the bottom up, expanding the rib cage while keeping the chest still, to maximize air storage before holding their breath underwater.
