Discover how far the human body can push its limits underwater — and the incredible records set in breath-hold diving.
Humans are surprisingly capable of diving deep underwater without the help of scuba gear. This form of diving, known as freediving, relies solely on a diver’s breath and mental control. But just how deep can we go on one breath?
As of today, the record for the deepest dive without breathing equipment belongs to freediver Herbert Nitsch, who reached a depth of 214 meters (702 feet) in the “No Limits” category — where divers use weighted sleds to descend and inflatable vests to rise back up. In the “Constant Weight” category, where divers descend and ascend using only their own power, the record is around 130 meters (426 feet).
At these depths, the pressure is more than 20 times what we experience at sea level. The lungs compress, the heartbeat slows dramatically, and oxygen must be carefully conserved. Trained freedivers learn to overcome the urge to breathe using techniques like meditation, diaphragmatic breathing, and rigorous physical conditioning.
For the average untrained person, the depth limit is much shallower — usually between 6 to 20 meters (20 to 65 feet). Beyond that, the risks of blackouts, lung barotrauma, and nitrogen narcosis increase significantly without proper training.
Freediving is not just about physical endurance; it’s a mental challenge, testing calmness and control in a place where humans aren’t naturally designed to survive. It’s a fascinating example of how adaptable — and daring — the human body can be.