Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Voluntary Breath-hold Technique for Reducing Heart Dose in Left Breast Radiotherapy
Published on: July 3, 2014
Breath holding with water immersion in synchronized swimmers and untrained women
Teresa C Alentejano1, Dru Marshall, Gordon J Bell
1Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. talentej@syban.net
Abstract:
Breath holding (BH) and water immersion induce several physiological responses. Individuals, who are BH trained tend to have an advantage versus untrained subjects. This study compared physiological responses to BH at rest between synchronized swimmers (SS) and controls (C). Each participant performed five resting BH periods in water. Breath holding periods were significantly longer for SS (109.8 +/- 39.3 vs. 78.3 +/- 25.0s), despite a similar end tidal partial pressure of carbon dioxide and oxygen following BH. Recovery times after BH were similar for oxygen consumption, ventilation, and blood oxygen saturation. Synchronized swimmers (SS) experienced bradycardia at 45s of max BH, whereas C did not (60 +/- 9 vs. 65 +/- 14 b x min(-1)). A significant oxygen conservation effect occurred for SS in only one BH trial. These results suggest that SS exhibited an enhanced ability to breath hold with similar respiratory responses but a lower heart rate (HR) during recovery, suggesting a better adaptation to BH.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Breathing
Alterations in Respiration II
In Biot's breathing, the respiratory rate and depth are irregular, alternating between periods of deep gasping and apnea. Common causes include...
Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
Other Factors Affecting Respiration Centers
However, the ability to hold one's breath voluntarily is not limitless. When the CO2 concentration in the blood reaches a critical level,...
Respiratory Volumes and Capacities I
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management

