The Cardio-Respiratory Mechanisms Involved in the Diving Response Adaptation and Breath-Hold Training Effects in Freedivers

Abstract

This review aims to explore the cardiovascular and respiratory mechanisms involved in the training effects of the diving response adaptation and to determine the adaptive changes during apnoea and breath-hold training in breath-hold divers. A sounder theoretical knowledge of these critical aspects is necessary to be able to understand the oxygen-conserving 
mechanism of the diving response, and the apnoea-induced cardiorespiratory adjustments involved in enriching the science of respiratory physiology and the development of breath-hold training and ability. These insights may contribute to understanding the pathophysiology of respiratory abnormalities and dysfunctional breathing in humans. Furthermore, it may facilitate the development of efficacious interventions to increase breath-holding ability, and sports performance, as well as assist with the management and treatment of various physiological and psychological conditions. This review will be presented in four separate sections. Section one will describe the diving response and its physiology. Section two will explore the cardio-respiratory mechanisms of the diving response. Section three will discuss the adaptive changes associated with breath-hold training and/or apnoea training, as well as the associated cardio-respiratory adaptions. Section four will explore the clinical applications and implications of the diving response