Such contests are more dangerous than they first appear: Many kids will grasp the obvious trick of hyperventilating to improve their time, but that can lead to abrupt unconsciousness and drowning.
Such contests are more dangerous than they first appear: Many kids will grasp the obvious trick of hyperventilating to improve their time, but that can lead to abrupt unconsciousness and drowning.
I know that now, and I would prevent any kids from breath-holding contests.
But I didn't at 14 years old, nor did my mom or uncle, apparently.
I imagine a safe version could be made... that would suck all the direct-competition spontaneity out of it. Like "do it on land", or "only in standing-height water and take turns with someone timing and acting as a spotter."
Yes, although as another commenter pointed out, being underwater triggers a response in our body that lowers our oxygen consumption.
We did spot for each other, even then, but I don't ever remember anyone thinking they almost passed out or anything.