Everything You Need to Know About Freediving

Imagine diving into the deep blue sea without tanks or hoses — just you and the water. This is the essence of freediving. 

Freediving is not just a way to explore the underwater world but also a unique way to challenge oneself physically and mentally. This article will take you on a journey to explore the world of freediving, including the benefits and how it differs from scuba diving. 

What is freediving?

Freediving, also known as breath-hold diving, is where the diver holds their breath and doesn’t use breathing equipment. The diver relies on their lung capacity to dive and explore the ocean. With adequate training and discipline, the diver can depend on their ability to hold their breath, helping them explore the ocean easier. However, learning proper breathing and safety techniques is crucial before attempting to freedive.

People will use freediving for various purposes, including recreational diving, spearfishing, and underwater photography. Some even compete competitively — expert divers try to reach the greatest depths or stay underwater for the longest. 

How does freediving compare to scuba diving?

The main difference between freediving and scuba diving is breathing. Unlike freedivers, who hold their breath, scuba divers use a self-contained breathing apparatus (scuba) for breathing underwater. 

These diving styles vary in depth and duration of dives. Freedivers typically stay at shallower depths and for shorter periods. In comparison, scuba diving allows divers to go to greater depths and stay underwater for longer. Scuba diving is generally considered safer than freediving, as the diver relies on their breathing apparatus.

When it comes to equipment, scuba divers use a complete set of gear, including a scuba tank, regulator, buoyancy control device, and a wetsuit. In contrast, freediving equipment consists of a mask, fins, and a wetsuit. Finding quality freediving gear is essential. AgulhasOcean provides sustainably sourced supplies to facilitate your dive without causing additional harm to the planet.

The experience of freediving is often seen as more meditative and peaceful. The diver is more connected to their environment as they don’t have a breathing device between them and the water. Scuba diving, however, allows for a more adventurous experience, as the diver can go to greater depths for longer.

What are the benefits of freediving?

Freediving is a unique way to explore the ocean, and its benefits extend far beyond the physical.

Physical benefits include:

Improving lung function and capacity

Freediving requires the use of the lungs to their full capacity, which can help to strengthen them and increase their ability to hold breath.

Improving cardiovascular fitness

Freediving can be a form of aerobic exercise, as the body uses oxygen more efficiently when the diver holds their breath.

Improving flexibility

Freediving requires the use of the entire body, including stretching and reaching, to move efficiently underwater.

Improving core strength

Freediving requires strong core muscles to maintain a good physical position underwater.

Mental benefits include:

Reducing stress and promoting relaxation

Freediving requires the diver to be calm and focused, which can help to reduce anxiety and promote peace.

Improving concentration

Freediving requires the diver to be aware of their surroundings and to stay focused on their dive.

Increased self-awareness and self-confidence

Freediving requires a level of self-awareness and self-control to stay safe. Mastering this sport can lead to increased self-confidence.

Divers may also meet like-minded individuals, helping them create a greater sense of community. Moreover, since freediving helps people connect with the ocean, divers often develop a passion for cleaning up the sea, caring for it, and protecting the planet. For some, this might give them purpose. 

Closing thoughts

We hope this article provided a valuable introduction to the beauty and excitement that freediving has to offer. Before starting your freediving adventures, it’s crucial to take part in proper training and ensure you have the right equipment. Agulhas Ocean is the home of freediving equipment — they offer style, performance, and sustainability, without compromise.   

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