Guidance: Hypoxic training in swimming pools

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Hypoxic training has no formal definition. We describe hypoxic training as 'extended breath-holding undertaken to enhance sports performance'. 

Hazards

Hypoxic training can result in a sudden loss of consciousness, called 'hypoxic blackout'. Loss of consciousness is sudden and occurs without prior warning. This puts a pool user at risk of harm by drowning. 

Men between 18-30 are the most common demographic involved in hypoxic training, but it is known to occur at any age and in both sexes. Underwater rugby/hockey players and synchronised and competitive swimmers experience increased exposure to hypoxic training. 

Control measures

Many pools in the UK have prohibited hypoxic training during unprogrammed sessions. Hypoxic training should not be permitted in unprogrammed swimming sessions, although UK lifeguards are trained to identify the appropriate signs for when to perform a rescue.

Hypoxic training is typically permitted when under the guidance of a qualified swimming coach. Coaches should limit hypoxic training within a set and provide longer than average rest breaks to allow appropriate recovery time. 

References

RLSS UK. 2020. Shallow water blackout, hyperventilation, and breath-holding. Available at: https://www.rlss.org.uk/safety-guidance accessed 6 June 2023. 

Swim England. 2017. Breathing techniques and over-breathing. June 2017. 

ILSF. 2011. Medical position statement. Available at https://medical.ilsf.org/shallow-water-blackout/ accessed 6 June 2023. 

WIRH. 2021. What is hypoxic blackout? Available at https://www.thewirh.com/blog/hypoxic-blackout accessed 6 June 2023. 

Citation: WIRH. 2023. Hypoxic training in swimming pools. Available at https://www.thewirh.com/blog/hypoxic-training accessed 6 June 2023.