I just managed to swim 25 meters underwater using dolphin kicks! I’ve been swimming for two months now, and I’m still figuring things out. It’s really fun, and I’d love any advice on how to hold my breath longer and improve my CO2 tolerance.
Look up ‘shallow water blackout’ so you know what to watch out for.
Sawyer said:
Look up ‘shallow water blackout’ so you know what to watch out for.
What does that mean? Does it have something to do with drinking water while swimming?
Sawyer said:
Look up ‘shallow water blackout’ so you know what to watch out for.
What does that mean? Does it have something to do with drinking water while swimming?
Never practice breath-holding underwater alone, and don’t hyperventilate before diving. Some swimmers and free divers use those techniques, but they can be really dangerous without someone watching closely. If you blackout, your body won’t warn you beforehand, and you could pass out underwater without even realizing it. A guy from my school drowned in a shallow pool while training for a Navy SEAL test because of this.
@Perrin
That makes sense. I didn’t realize how risky it could be. I swim with friends in the college pool, and our coach keeps an eye on everyone. I’m not trying for 50m just yet either.
Reid said:
@Perrin
That makes sense. I didn’t realize how risky it could be. I swim with friends in the college pool, and our coach keeps an eye on everyone. I’m not trying for 50m just yet either.
That’s good! As long as you’re with others and staying within your limits, you should be fine. Just don’t assume that once you can do 50m, it’s safe to do it alone. The guy from my school was in a busy YMCA pool with lifeguards, but no one knew what he was doing, and by the time they noticed, it was too late.