The Truth About Blackouts
Freediving is a sport that is often shrouded in mystery. To the uninitiated, it can seem dangerous and even life-threatening. However, the reality is that freediving is a safe sport—so long as you take the necessary precautions and always respect the dangers involved. In this blog post, we’ll dispel some of the myths about blackouts and explain what you need to know to stay safe while freediving.
What Causes Blackouts?
The most common cause of blackouts is hypoxia, which occurs when your body does not have enough oxygen. This can be caused by several factors, including shallow water breath-holds, hyperventilation before a dive, and failing to equalize properly during a descent. Additionally, blackouts can also be caused by hypercapnia, which is an excess of carbon dioxide in the blood. This can be caused by over-breathing before a dive or ascending too quickly after a descent.
How to Minimize the chances of getting a Blackout
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent blackouts while freediving. First and foremost, always make sure you are well-rested before attempting any type of breath-hold dive. Warm up and start the dive positive. Descend slowly and equalize frequently to avoid any sudden changes in pressure. Finally, never drink alcohol or use drugs before diving—this will only increase your chances of blackout.
Freediving is a safe sport that can be enjoyed by everyone—so long as you take the necessary precautions. By following the tips outlined above, you can help ensure that your next freediving experience is a positive one. Remember: always Warm up properly, descend slowly, and equalize frequently to avoid blackouts. If you adhere to these guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy freediving for many years to come!
