Several freedivers have achieved world records in the sport. Some of them compete in several disciplines. Others just compete in one. The records are set in different agencies. In addition, each discipline has its own rules and regulations. Depending on the rules, a freediver can hold his or her breath for between 30 seconds and two minutes.
The first freediving world record was set by Francisco “Pipin” Ferreras. Born in Matanzas, Cuba, Ferreras learned to dive at the age of five. He later changed his name to Ferreras. Later in his career, Ferreras became a spearfisherman.
Alexey Molchanov holds 24 freediving world records. He has won the Vertical Blue world record two years after his mother died. During this same competition, Molchanov broke the Trubridge’s Free Immersion world record. He pulled down the line to 125 meters and then dived to 130 meters.
The International Association for the Development of Apnea was a world-wide body that kept records for freediving. The organization was founded by Roland Specker and Claude Chapuis.
Freediving has become a huge sport. It is said that it is more dangerous than base jumping. Many freedivers swim without scuba gear. However, there are many deaths in the sport.
Several freedivers have made world records in the static apnea category. Some of these divers are able to hold their breath for an unbelievable number of minutes. Some species are able to hold their breath for over a hundred minutes. However, some species are only able to hold their breath for seven to ten minutes.