Dynamic apnea

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Dynamic Apnea
Synonyms N/A
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Breath-holding, underwater swimming
Complications Hypoxia, Blackout (swimming)
Onset During freediving
Duration Variable
Types Dynamic Apnea with Fins, Dynamic Apnea without Fins
Causes Voluntary breath-holding
Risks Hypoxia, Hypercapnia
Diagnosis N/A
Differential diagnosis N/A
Prevention Proper training, safety protocols
Treatment Resurfacing, breathing
Medication N/A
Prognosis N/A
Frequency N/A
Deaths N/A


Dynamic apnea is a discipline of freediving where the diver aims to cover the maximum horizontal distance underwater on a single breath. It is one of the competitive disciplines in freediving, governed by organizations such as AIDA International and CMAS.

Types[edit | edit source]

Dynamic apnea is divided into two main categories:

  • Dynamic Apnea with Fins (DYN): In this category, divers use fins or a monofin to propel themselves through the water.
  • Dynamic Apnea without Fins (DNF): In this category, divers rely solely on their body movements, such as the breaststroke, to move through the water.

Physiology[edit | edit source]

During dynamic apnea, the diver holds their breath while swimming underwater. This activity can lead to hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and hypercapnia (high carbon dioxide levels), which are significant risks associated with the sport. Divers train to increase their lung capacity and improve their breath-hold times.

Safety[edit | edit source]

Safety is paramount in dynamic apnea. Divers should always have a trained safety diver present and follow strict protocols to prevent blackout (swimming) and other risks. Proper training and gradual progression in distance and time are essential to minimize risks.

Training[edit | edit source]

Training for dynamic apnea involves improving cardiovascular fitness, breath-hold techniques, and swimming efficiency. Divers often practice static apnea to increase their breath-hold capacity and work on equalization techniques to manage pressure changes.

Competitions[edit | edit source]

Dynamic apnea competitions are held worldwide, with athletes competing to achieve the longest distance. Records are maintained by organizations such as AIDA International and CMAS.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

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External links[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD