Freediving
Freediving is a challenging sport as is, nevermind adding sub-zero temperatures and icy waters to the mix. So, most consider cold-water freediving a mad idea, reserved only for the most daring. However, in addition to testing the limits of one’s inner strength, cold-water freediving offers a glance at some of the world’s most fascinating dive sites.
In one of our previous articles we have discussed all of the different competitive disciplines in freediving. Today we have decided to look at the organizations that make up the rules and regulate the competitions. Currently, the world of apnea is governed by two world associations: CMAS and AIDA - both ratify records, both declare their athletes world champions.
Freediving has been practiced around the world for millennia, but it wasn’t until the second half of the twentieth century that it became a competitive sport. Modern-day freediving has an array of different disciplines to reflect the various ways that people can be in the water and hold their breath.
Some say that freediving, and especially its pool disciplines, is not much of a spectator sport - there’s little “action” and the results are often predictable. However, this year’s Individual AIDA Freediving Pool World Championships was nothing short of spectacular. Held in Belgrade, Serbia from June 23rd to July 1st, the event had it all - suspense, drama and quite a few memorable performances.
If you are a beginner freediver or even just thinking about pursuing the sport, one of the first things you need to learn is how to dive and progress in a way that is safe. After all, there are always risks involved in dropping deep into the ocean, especially when it's done without proper instruction and training on safety procedures. So, to get you started we have gathered a list of rules that you need to follow in order to reduce the chances of an accident due to a physiological problem from improper freediving techniques.
Just recently we have had an amazing opportunity to take part in a special two-day workshop led by a real freediving superstar, multiple World Record Holder, and World Champion Mateusz (Matt) Malina. In addition to giving a very informative and inspiring masterclass, Matt has agreed to share some of his insights with our readers.
Hundreds of years ago, before any rudimentary diving equipment was invented, human beings have been exploring the ocean’s depths with nothing but one gulp of air. In fact, even nowadays, when modern scuba gear is readily available, freediving (breath-hold diving) only grows in popularity. So why do people freedive, if they can simply put a tank on their back and stay down for much longer? Well, the reasons are numerous, and they are not the same for everyone.