The mammalian dive reflex: the superpower you never knew you had
![Freediver ascending along the line during a freediving dive in Dahab]()
The mammalian dive reflex: the superpower you never knew you had
Your body has an ancient mechanism that helps you adapt to being underwater. The mammalian dive reflex slows your heart, redirects blood and helps conserve oxygen during a breath-hold dive. Discover how this remarkable response works, why every human has it, and how freediving training can make it stronger and more efficient.