Ways of Optimizing Breathing When Diving

A commander in the US Navy SEALs, Lieutenant Adam Schwarze leads tactical teams in complex, demanding missions. One area of extensive knowledge for Adam Schwarze is diving techniques that are applicable to both recreational and professional underwater environments.

One key to safe, effective diving is optimizing air consumption in ways that extend the life of your tank. Each person’s breathing differs, with capacities defined by muscle mass, body size, and lung capacity. As a general rule, larger people require more oxygen to supply their muscles and tissues.

That said, there is some flexibility within these limitations, with the urge to breathe tied to the level of CO2 in the body. In simple terms, with a lower level of CO2 comes less of an urge to breath. This is why breath-hold exercises are often preceded by a few seconds of hyperventilation, which flushes CO2 from the body. Another way of controlling CO2 levels involves eliminating unnecessary activity.

When diving, slow down your breathing and move in a slow, controlled manner. At the same time, maintain a continuous flow of breath, adhering to the diving rule of never holding your breath. This practice allows breathing cycles per minute to be substantially reduced below what is possible on land, which in turn extends the lifespan of your tank and ensures a full, unhurried dive.