In this episode of The Breath Hold Breakdown, Britt Jackson explores the surprising truth about who is most vulnerable to underwater hypoxic blackout—and why it often affects the strongest swimmers rather than beginners. She outlines high-risk groups such as elite athletes, military personnel, freedivers, spear fishermen, and even fitness enthusiasts following viral breathwork trends. Britt also highlights why certain aquatic environments—from swim team facilities to backyard pools—are more susceptible to incidents, and she offers practical steps that can save lives.

Key Takeaways:

• Underwater hypoxic blackout often affects strong swimmers, not novices.
• High-risk groups: elite athletes, military divers, freedivers, spear fishermen, and breathwork practitioners.
• Fitness trends and social media challenges have increased fatalities since 2020.
• Children and teens are at risk due to breath-holding games and limited supervision.
• Facilities with competitive or unsupervised swimming—like resorts, gyms, and backyard pools—face higher risk.
• Prevention steps include clear signage, lifeguard and coach training, and firm no-breath-holding policies.
• Awareness campaigns, children’s resources, and coaching education play a crucial role in prevention.
• Lifeguards cannot detect blackouts from above the surface—supervision and policy are critical.