Skin diving, also known as free diving, is basically sea diving without the help of any breathing apparatus. Divers are usually equipped with a snorkel, but once you get under the surface you must hold your breath. Skin diving can be a dangerous hobby if you are not prepared. Drowning is always a possibility. Learning different breathing exercises will help you stay under longer.
Long and Deep
Practicing long and deep breathing will help your body learn to hold your breath longer. To do the exercise, sit comfortably in a chair or cross-legged on the floor. Place your hand palms-up on your thighs. Pull your elbows inward slightly. Breathe in long, deep breaths through your nose so that your stomach expands. Continue breathing in to fill your chest, then even more to try and stretch your lungs. Hold the breath for a few seconds at first, and then practice over time to work your way up to a few minutes.
Release Your Air Slowly
When you take your last gulp of air before you dive down, try to keep it in your lungs as long as possible. Release the air a little at a time as you explore under the water. Letting it out too quickly or all at once will increase the urge for you to breathe again sooner than if you let it out more slowly.
Cardio for Lung Capacity
How much oxygen you can hold in your lungs is a factor in how long you can stay under. Performing various cardiovascular exercises and activities, such as running, will help increase your lung capacity and help you when it is time to dive. Start slowly and increase intensity as you progress. Although not possible for everyone, exercising at higher altitudes will also give your lung capacity a boost.
Swim Underwater
Since skin diving involves swimming underwater while holding your breath, it makes sense to practice breath holding in a pool while you swim to help your dives. Swim laps underwater at your local pool. Try for 50 meters at a time and increase as you are able. You can vary your underwater movement by trying legs only or using different swimming strokes. Practice relaxing your body to keep your heart rate lower.
