Understanding RV Freediving Technique in Depth Training
RV freediving technique allows divers to adapt to depth and practice deep equalisation techniques close to the surface. Freediving to great depths is a journey of both mental and physical adaptation. Residual Volume (RV) training is one of the advanced techniques that allows deep freedivers to acclimate their lungs and mind to the challenges of high-pressure depths. RV training is not about simply holding your breath longer—it’s about transforming the way your body responds to the intense environment underwater, conditioning your lungs, chest, and mind to withstand pressure as you dive deeper.
In this post, we’ll explore what RV training is, why it’s so crucial for depth training, and how it prepares you to dive safely and comfortably as you pursue new depth goals.
What is Residual Volume (RV) in Freediving?
In freediving, Residual Volume refers to the minimal amount of air left in your lungs after a full exhalation, or in simpler terms, the air that remains when you’ve exhaled as much as you possibly can. Residual volume itself is a normal part of our breathing anatomy, but in freediving, training at RV means diving with only this minimal air, simulating the conditions of extreme depth even in shallower waters.
Diving with reduced lung volume may feel like an advanced form of stress testing for the body—and it is! But with the right preparation and technique, RV training conditions the body and mind to withstand greater pressure, adapt to low-oxygen environments, and handle challenging equalization demands.
RV training also requires high mental control. This training helps sharpen your ability to stay calm in high-pressure scenarios—a skill essential for freedivers venturing into deeper water.
Why Train with RV?
RV training is specifically designed for freedivers looking to deepen their comfort and endurance as they push further below the surface. Here’s how RV diving enhances depth training:
1. Increases Lung and Diaphragm Flexibility
At depth, lung compression occurs as the pressure increases, which can make deeper dives uncomfortable if you’re unprepared. RV training strengthens and stretches the lungs and diaphragm, helping you withstand this compression and making deep dives feel less restrictive.
2. Adapts to Low Oxygen Levels
RV training helps your body acclimate to the sensation of low oxygen (hypoxia), teaching you to manage these uncomfortable sensations in a safe environment. Over time, this training increases your hypoxic tolerance, enabling you to stay relaxed and focused even at depths where oxygen is scarce.
3. Improves Equalization Skills
Equalizing becomes tougher as the air in your lungs compresses at depth. RV training builds up your equalization abilities because it requires efficient and skillful techniques like Frenzel and mouthfill methods from the start. The more you practice equalization under RV conditions, the smoother it will feel in your deep dives.
Related Post: For more on managing depth and equalization, read our article on Freediving and the Mammalian Dive Reflex.
How to Start with RV Training
Because RV training involves diving with minimal air, it’s essential to approach it gradually and with expert guidance if you’re new to the technique. Here’s a safe way to start:
1. Warm Up with Diaphragmatic Breathing
Begin each session with diaphragmatic breathing exercises. This will warm up your respiratory system, activate the parasympathetic nervous system, and calm your mind, preparing your body for the experience of reduced lung volume.
2. Practice Full Exhalation on Land
To get a feel for RV training, practice full exhalations on land. Slowly exhale until you feel that there’s no air left in your lungs. This will help you understand the sensation and ease into it before moving into the water.
3. Start Shallow and Gradually Increase Depth
Always start shallow when training with RV. Diving on minimal air can be demanding, so limit yourself to very shallow depths, gradually increasing as you become more comfortable.
4. Focus on Equalization Techniques
With RV, the air volume in your lungs is minimal, so practice Frenzel and mouthfill equalization before diving deeper. You may find it helpful to practice equalizing at depth with minimal air, as this translates directly to easier, more efficient equalization during full-lung dives.
Related Post: To refine your breathing techniques for both shallow and deep dives, check out our guide on How to Control Your Urge to Breathe.
RV Training: Preparing Mentally for Depth
Mental preparation is a huge part of RV training. Freediving on reduced lung volume triggers different sensations and emotions, which can initially feel uncomfortable or even unsettling. Over time, RV training teaches you to stay calm under these sensations, enhancing your confidence and mental resilience as you approach greater depths.
1. Relaxation and Visualization
Visualizing the dive beforehand can reduce anxiety and stress, helping you stay calm and focused. Picture each step of the dive and imagine yourself relaxing through each stage, equalizing effortlessly. Visualization builds confidence and reduces discomfort, preparing your mind to face similar sensations at depth.
2. Incremental Progress
RV training is about gradual progression. Take small steps and don’t push past your comfort zone too quickly. As you train, your comfort and confidence will grow, allowing you to reach new depth milestones safely and with a calm mindset.
Related Post: Curious about how to build mental resilience through breath training? Check out Freediving Techniques for Better Sleep for breath-based techniques to calm your mind and prepare for high-pressure freediving scenarios.
Key Benefits of RV Training for Freediving Depth
RV training may sound intense, but the benefits make it a powerful addition to your freediving training regimen. Here’s a summary of the benefits:
• Builds Mental Resilience: RV training strengthens your ability to handle low oxygen and high-pressure environments.
• Improves Equalization: Prepares you for efficient equalization at depth by practicing with minimal air.
• Boosts Lung Flexibility: Trains the lungs and diaphragm to handle extreme compression, making deeper dives more comfortable.
• Enhances Hypoxic Tolerance: Conditions your body to perform under low-oxygen scenarios, a crucial skill for any deep diver.
Final Thoughts on RV Training
RV training is one of the most effective ways to prepare both your body and mind for the unique challenges of deep freediving. By training on minimal air, you’ll condition yourself to withstand pressure, handle hypoxia, and build the mental resilience needed to stay calm and focused. Remember, RV training is advanced and should be approached gradually with professional guidance if you’re new to the technique.
Whether you’re working toward deeper dives or just looking to improve your endurance underwater, RV training offers a transformative practice that will help you reach your goals safely and effectively. Take your time, practice with intention, and trust that each dive brings you closer to the depths you’re aiming for.
Related Articles: For more insights on boosting stamina for longer dives, check out our guide on Training for FRC: Boosting Freediving Stamina, which details other techniques to strengthen your freediving foundation.
