Making big bubble rings underwater is a fun skill that requires practice and control. It involves releasing a pocket of air in a specific way that causes it to form a toroidal vortex, or a ring.
While the core principle is simple – creating a vortex – achieving a large, stable ring consistently takes technique. Some methods focus on mouth shape, while others involve using your hand.
Based on one reference, part of the preparation might involve a specific breathing technique before descending or performing the action underwater.
Preparing to Blow a Bubble Ring
According to one referenced technique, preparation might include a specific breathing method:
- Take a deep breath: Ensure you have enough air. One description suggests breathing in "really deep."
- Controlled Exhalation/Preparation: This might involve a phase of "Press. And then empty." This could refer to some form of clearing lungs or preparing diaphragm control, though the exact meaning is not fully detailed.
- Rapid Oxygen Intake: The reference then mentions needing to take "three short. And fast oxygen" before you "go down". Note: Rapid breathing or hyperventilation is generally discouraged before breath-hold diving due to safety risks.
- Get Submerged: You must be fully underwater to create the ring.
Techniques for Blowing Bubble Rings
Once you are underwater with sufficient air, you need to expel the air in a way that creates the vortex. Here are common techniques:
1. The Mouth Technique
This is the most common method and relies on shaping your mouth and using your tongue.
- Position: Face upwards or forwards, relatively still in the water.
- Mouth Shape: Form your mouth like you are saying "oh" or creating a small circle. Keep your lips firm but not tense.
- Expel Air: Release a small, controlled puff of air from your mouth. The key is to release it quickly and smoothly, not a long, continuous stream.
- Tongue Flick (Optional but helpful): Some people find it helpful to use a quick flick of their tongue, similar to a mild cough or spitting motion, as they release the air. This helps push the air out in a concise burst and initiate the vortex spin.
2. The Hand Technique
This method uses your hand to shape and release the air.
- Cup Your Hand: Submerge your hand and cup it slightly.
- Release Air into Hand: Blow a bubble of air into your cupped hand.
- Flick Hand: With the air bubble in your hand, make a quick, gentle flicking motion with your wrist or fingers. This action should push the air bubble away from your hand, imparting a spin and forming the ring. This method can sometimes be easier for creating larger or more stable rings initially.
Tips for Success
- Still Water: Practice in calm water with minimal currents or disturbance.
- Control is Key: Use short, controlled puffs of air, not a continuous stream.
- Experiment: Try different mouth shapes, tongue movements, and hand flicking techniques.
- Posture: Experiment with facing upwards, sideways, or forwards to see what works best for you and the water conditions.
- Practice: Creating good rings takes time and repeated attempts. Don't get discouraged!
Mastering the bubble ring is a fun challenge, combining breath control, posture, and precise movements.
