Posted by JRM on July 02, 2001 at 14:09:52:
In Reply to: Re: Military vs. Recreational posted by Steve on July 02, 2001 at 13:42:29:
Hmm, I'm no expert, but it's been my experience (and I've read it a bunch) that the reflex really doesn't kick in for 20-30 minutes.
I notice that my BT's increase after I've been in the water for a while. So I'm not sure how much it really comes into play during SCUBA. While I do have an air integrated computer (oh the shame!), it doesn't do the really sexy air consumption stuff, so I can't tell you how my SAC varies during different immersed times.
I have read that all the competition depth freedivers spend at least a half an hour in the water before beginning their attempt cycles. I believe this is also due to the delay in the onset of the "reflex".
I'll tell you what reflex I'd have if I suddenly plunged my head into 30 degree water. It'd have more "F's" than FFM, that's for sure!
JRM