Vol. 2, Issue 1, Part A (2020)

Free diving demands exceptional physiological adaptation to hypoxic conditions, where efficient oxygen utilization plays a vital role in performance and safety. This study aimed to explore the synergistic effects of stretching and breathing techniques on oxygen dynamics in free divers. A controlled experimental design was employed, involving 60 experienced free divers divided into four groups: stretching-only, breathing-only, combined stretching and breathing, and a control group. Over six months, participants underwent tailored interventions, with metrics such as VO₂ max, static apnea duration, oxygen saturation, and lung capacity assessed through laboratory and field tests.
The combined group exhibited the most significant improvements, with a 15.6% increase in VO₂ max and a 28.7% increase in static apnea duration, outperforming the individual intervention groups and the control group. These results highlight the enhanced thoracic flexibility and respiratory efficiency achieved through the integration of stretching and breathing protocols. The findings underscore the importance of addressing both mechanical and respiratory limitations to optimize freediving performance. This study provides a scientific foundation for incorporating combined stretching and breathing techniques into training regimens, with potential applications in clinical and rehabilitative settings for individuals with respiratory conditions. By advancing understanding of oxygen utilization and human adaptability to extreme conditions, this research contributes valuable insights to sports science and broader physiological studies.