The Long and Short of It: Croatian Diver Sets Record for Longest Underwater Breath-Hold
In the depths of the Adriatic Sea, a Croatian diver has made history, setting a new record for the longest underwater breath-hold in the world. Croatian freediver Anđelka Milić brought the scientific community to a state of awe with her incredible feat of holding her breath for an astonishing 24 minutes and 3.45 seconds. But how is it possible for a human to survive for this long without breathing, and what are the underlying physiological and psychological factors that contribute to this remarkable ability?
The Secrets of the Diver’s Superhuman Ability
Anđelka Milić’s record-breaking breath-hold can be attributed to a combination of physical adaptation, mental preparation, and deliberate training. Here are some of the fascinating factors that contributed to her achievement:
- Physiological Adaptation: Free divers undergo a process known as "habituation," where they regularly expose themselves to high levels of oxygen in their bodies, which allows their brains to adjust to the reduced level of oxygen.
- Breathing Training: Freedivers learn controlled breathing techniques to optimize oxygen storage in the muscles and increase their tolerance for carbon dioxide build-up.
- Gradual Progression: Milić gradually increased her breath-holding intervals over time, starting with shorter duration and gradually working her way up.
Image:
[Picture of Anđelka Milić in diving gear, with her trainer and safety divers in attendance]
What Happens to the Body During a Freedive?
When a freediver descends into the water and dives to great depths, their body undergoes rapid physiological changes. Here’s a summary of what happens:
- Increased Cardiac Output: The heart rate accelerates to deliver more oxygen to the body.
- Hyperventilation: Excess oxygen in the lungs allows the freediver to store oxygen in their muscles, giving them a buffer against the reduced availability of oxygen in the water.
- Body’s Emergency Response: The body starts to store lactic acid instead of producing it, allowing it to conserve oxygen.
Did You Know?
- Training is Crucial: Freedivers must train extensively to develop mental and physical discipline, as well as adaptation to the increased carbon dioxide levels.
Q&A: The Long and Short of It
Q: How was this record achieved?
A: Anđelka Milić accomplished this record through rigorous training, slow and controlled descent, and specialized equipment to ensure her safety.
Q: What is the maximum safe underwater breath-hold?
A: Under normal circumstances, the maximum safe breath-hold for a human is around 6-8 minutes, depending on factors like physical conditioning, mental state, and water temperature.
Q: Can anyone do this?
A: While anybody can attempt freediving, a high level of physical fitness, mental acuity, and proper training are crucial factors in achieving a record-breaking performance.
Q: Are there health risks involved in freediving?
A: Yes, there are risks associated with deep freediving, such as nitrogen narcosis, decompression sickness, and air embolism. Properly trained divers, like Anđelka Milić, and adherence to safety protocols minimize the risks.
This remarkable achievement by Croatian freediver Anđelka Milić serves as an inspirational reminder of human resilience and the astounding capabilities of our bodies when pushed to new limits. As we continue to explore and extend the boundaries of what is possible, one thing remains clear: the human brain and body are capable of incredible feats with the right training, discipline, and purpose.
