DIY Underwater Breathing
Breathing underwater cannot be accomplished without the aid of at least a snorkel. After practicing holding your breath and working with a snorkel, you'll be able to breathe underwater with ease. However, it should be noted that you cannot breathe underwater without being close to the surface without proper training. Learning to scuba dive and use oxygen equipment should happen in the presence of a professional who will teach you the basics and proper techniques.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Practice holding your breath underwater for one to two minutes. Take a breath and fill your lungs with air before you submerge your head. Place your entire body underwater, breathing out every few seconds. Time yourself and work on your pacing.
-
2
Purchase your snorkel and practice breathing through it on land before going underwater. It can be an uncomfortable sensation to breathe exclusively through the mouth, so it may take some getting used to. Place your mask tightly on your face and put the snorkel all the way into your mouth. Don't bite it, but let your teeth rest on it.
-
-
3
Buy the appropriate fins for your feet. The best ones are snug, but not too tight and not too loose. If your toes curl inside of them, they are definitely too tight.
-
4
Snorkel in a pool or shallow water in a horizontal position for practice. Propel yourself forward by moving your feet up and down, known as the flutter stroke.
-
5
Dive deeper as you feel more comfortable. Take several deep breaths and then submerge yourself, letting out about half of your air as you go down. As you continue your descent, let out more of your air, leaving just enough to clear your snorkel when you come up to the surface.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Clear your snorkel by exhaling into it or saying the word "two." Try flooding and clearing your snorkel in the pool or near the surface so you won't panic if it happens in open water.
Always be aware of your surroundings when snorkeling in a lake or an ocean. Be aware of plants or nets you could get caught in, in addition to dangerous sea life.
Do not hold your breath underwater for longer than you feel comfortable.
References
- Photo Credit Snorkel image by LenseGoneBad from Fotolia.com
