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AIDA International
AIDA International
AIDA International
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Association Internationale pour le Développement de l'Apnée (AIDA) (English: International Association for the Development of Apnea) is a worldwide rule- and record-keeping body for competitive breath holding events, also known as freediving.[3] It sets standards for safety, comparability of Official World Record attempts and freedive education. AIDA International is the parent organization for national clubs of the same name. AIDA World Championships are periodically held.

Key Information

History

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AIDA was founded on November 2, 1992, in Nice, France, by Frenchmen Roland Specker, Loïc Leferme and Claude Chapuis, with Specker as its first president. The AIDA Competitions started to take form in 1993. National clubs begin to form over all Europe in 1994–1995. AIDA became AIDA International in 1999.

  • In 1999 Sébastien Nagel, of Switzerland, replaced Roland Specker as the president.
  • Bill Strömberg, of Sweden, replaced Sébastien Nagel as president in 2005.
  • Kimmo Lahtinen, of Finland, replaced Bill Strömberg as president in December 2009.
  • Carla Sue Hanson, of the USA, replaced Kimmo Lahtinen as president in 2016.
  • Alexandru Russu, of Romania, replaced Carla Sue Hanson as president in 2020.
  • Sasa Jeremic, of Serbia, replaced Alexandru Russu as president in 2024.

AIDA World Championships

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History of AIDA World Championships:

Team

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Individual

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Qualifications and certifications

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AIDA has a star system for grading its freediving certifications:

Freedive certifications

  • AIDA 1 Star Freediver, 8m CWT, 1'15" STA, 25m DYN.
  • AIDA 2 Star Freediver, 12m CWT, 2' STA, 40m DYN.
  • AIDA 3 Star Freediver, 24m CWT, 2'45" STA, 55m DYN.
  • AIDA 4 Star Freediver, 32m CWT, 3'30" STA, 70m DYN.

Speciality certifications

  • Pool Competition Safety Freediver.
  • Depth Competition Safety Freediver.
  • Advanced Depth Competition Safety Freediver.
  • Monofin Freediver.
  • Advanced Monofin Freediver.
  • Master Monofin Freediver.
  • AIDA youth bronze dolphin.
  • AIDA youth silver dolphin.
  • AIDA youth gold dolphin.

AIDA has 3 levels of Instructor qualifications and certifications:

Instructor certifications

  • AIDA Instructor, can teach up to 3 Star Freediver.
  • AIDA Master Instructor, can teach up to 4 Star Freediver.
  • AIDA Instructor Trainer, can teach all levels, and instructors.

Records

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AIDA recognized world records as of March 28, 2022.[5]

Pool Disciplines

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The AIDA recognized pool disciplines are static apnea (STA) and three separate dynamic apnea disciplines. Dynamic With Fins (DYN) which is done with monofins usually but bifins are also allowed, Dynamic With Bifins (DYNB) which uses bifins, and Dynamic Without Fins (DNF) does not allow fins to be used and divers usually use breast strokes and wall-kicks for propulsions.[6]

Discipline Gender Name Nationality Result Date
Static Apnea (STA) Male Stéphane Mifsud  France 11:35 2009-06-08
Static Apnea (STA) Female Natalia Molchanova  Russia 09:02 2013-06-21
Dynamic With Fins (DYN) Male Mateusz Malina  Poland 316.53m 2019-06-22
Dynamic With Fins (DYN) Female Zsófia Törőcsik  Hungary 280m 2025-7-02
Dynamic Without Fins (DNF) Male Mateusz Malina  Poland 244m 2016-07-01
Dynamic Without Fins (DNF) Female Magdalena Solich-Talanda  Poland 191m 2017-07-01
Dynamic With Bifins (DYNB) Male Mateusz Malina  Poland 250m 2019-10-13
Dynamic With Bifins (DYNB) Female Mirela Kardašević  Croatia 208m 2019-03-07

Sea Disciplines

[edit]
Discipline Gender Name Nationality Result Date
Constant Weight (CWT) Male Alexey Molchanov  Russia 130m 2018-07-18
Constant Weight (CWT) Female Alenka Artnik  Slovenia 114m 2020-07-11
Constant Weight Without Fins (CNF) Male William Trubridge  New Zealand 102m 2016-07-16
Constant Weight Without Fins (CNF) Female Alessia Zecchini  Italy 73m 2018-07-22
Constant Weight With Bifins (CWTB) Male Alexey Molchanov  Russia 115m 2021-09-23
Constant Weight With Bifins (CWTB) Female Alessia Zecchini  Italy 109m 2023-03-29
Free Immersion (FIM) Male Mateusz Malina  Poland 127m 2022-08-11
Free Immersion (FIM) Female Sanda Delija  Croatia 103m 2025-05-04
Variable Weight (VWT) Male Walid Boudhaif  Tunisia 150m 2021-01-17
Variable Weight (VWT) Female Nanja Van Den Broek  Netherlands 130m 2015-10-18
No Limit (NLT) Male Herbert Nitsch  Austria 214m 2007-06-09
No Limit (NLT) Female Tanya Streeter  United States 160m 2002-08-17

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

AIDA International

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from Grokipedia
AIDA International, formally known as the International Association for the Development of Apnea, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the global promotion and regulation of as a safe, enjoyable, and educational sport. Founded in 1992 in response to growing interest in breath-hold diving—sparked in part by the 1988 film —it serves as the world's largest freediving federation, establishing standardized rules, safety guidelines, and educational systems to foster a supportive community of athletes, instructors, and enthusiasts. The organization's core purpose encompasses not only the development of competitive freediving disciplines, such as and , but also the advancement of initiatives and scientific research into the physiological aspects of breath-hold diving. Governed democratically through an international assembly where each national member entity holds one vote, AIDA International is led by an elected executive board and supported by specialized committees focused on areas like , , and discipline. Over its three decades of operation, it has organized numerous world championships, tracked official world records—such as the women's record of 9 minutes and 22 seconds held by Heike Schwerdtner as of May 2025—and certified thousands of through its progressive course system, from beginner to advanced levels. By emphasizing respect for the and ethical practices, AIDA International continues to shape the sport's , hosting events like the annual AIDA Freediving World Championships and collaborating with national affiliates to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for divers worldwide.

History

Founding and Early Years

AIDA International was founded on November 2, 1992, in , , by Roland Specker, Loïc Leferme, and Claude Chapuis, with Specker serving as its first president. The organization emerged in response to the surging popularity of , fueled by the 1988 film , which inspired record attempts but lacked unified standards for safety and competition. Its primary purpose was to foster a global community of freedivers while establishing consistent rules for competitions, safety protocols, and official record validation in apnea sports. During its early years, developed foundational guidelines for key disciplines, such as —measuring breath-hold duration—and constant weight, where divers descend and ascend using fins without dropping weights. The first AIDA World Championship took place in in October 1996, featuring teams from countries including , , , and . National affiliates began forming across in the mid-1990s, with AIDA France officially created in 1998 as the inaugural national entity. By 1999, the association restructured as International to reflect its broadening scope beyond .

Expansion and Leadership Changes

Following its founding in 1992, AIDA International experienced significant growth, evolving from a small with a handful of national entities in during the 1990s to a global federation with 58 national organizations by 2024. This expansion reflected the sport's increasing popularity, with membership spanning over 50 countries by 2025 and fostering a worldwide community of freedivers. Leadership transitions played a pivotal role in this development. Sébastien Nagel served as president from 1999 to 2005, guiding early internationalization efforts. Bill Strömberg succeeded him from 2005 to 2009, followed by Kimmo Lahtinen, who led from 2009 to 2016 and emphasized . Carla Sue Hanson held the position from 2016 until her death in February 2020, focusing on community outreach. Alexandru Russu presided from 2020 to 2024, advancing digital infrastructure. Since 2024, Saša Jeremić has served as president, overseeing recent electoral mandates extending into 2027. Major expansions included AIDA's affiliation as an associate member of the European Underwater Federation (EUF) in 2012, enhancing its recognition within broader underwater sports governance. The organization also relocated its headquarters to , , where it now operates c/o Mentha Avocats at Rue de l'Athénée 4, supporting administrative efficiency for global operations. Key developments under successive leaderships included the introduction of formalized individual world championships in the early 2000s, building on team events from the late 1990s to establish structured international competitions. Participation in these events grew substantially, from dozens of athletes in early editions to hundreds by the 2020s, with over 5,000 freedivers competing across 288 events in more than 50 countries in 2023 alone. In response to safety incidents in competitive freediving during the 2010s, AIDA enhanced its protocols through annual reviews by its Safety and Medical Committees, incorporating stricter requirements for certified safety divers, medical oversight, and risk mitigation in competitions. Recent milestones underscore AIDA's prominence, with the organization having ratified over 330 world records since 1992 as of January 2025. The 2025 championships exemplified this, hosting record-breaking performances such as Alexey Molchanov's 126-meter world record at the 35th Freediving World Championship in , , alongside multiple national and continental marks.

Organizational Structure

Governance and Headquarters

AIDA International is headquartered in , , at c/o Mentha Avocats, Rue de l'Athénée 4, 1205 , which functions as the central hub for record validation, event coordination, and international correspondence. This location supports the organization's global operations, including administrative tasks and liaison with national affiliates. As a non-profit association, AIDA International operates under a democratic model led by an executive board elected by its international assembly, where each national member holds one vote. The board manages daily operations, with Saša Jeremić serving as president since 2024, re-elected in November 2025 for the 2026-2027 term, overseeing strategic direction alongside roles such as vice president (Lisa Borg) and secretary (Antonella Sciacca). Decision-making is supported by specialized committees, including those for , , technical standards, medical oversight, and competitions, which ensure compliance with rules and prioritize athlete welfare. The international assembly convenes annually for member organizations to vote on rules, policies, and amendments to statutes, maintaining the organization's focus on development and safety. Funding for AIDA International derives primarily from annual membership fees paid by national affiliates, , and sponsorships for events, enabling volunteer-driven operations without profit motives. Key operational roles include certified judges for fair adjudication and oversight teams to monitor athlete health during events.

National and International Affiliates

AIDA International operates through a network of over 50 affiliated national organizations, with 58 full and observer members as of 2024, each holding one vote in the international assembly to ensure democratic governance. These national bodies, such as AIDA USA and AIDA Japan, manage local activities including competitions, athlete training, and educational programs aligned with AIDA's global standards. Founded in 1992, AIDA's affiliate network has expanded significantly since its early years, growing from a nascent federation to supporting events across dozens of countries by enabling widespread participation in international competitions. National affiliates play a central role in organizing regional events that serve as qualifiers for world championships, ensuring adherence to standardized rules for and fairness. They also oversee the delivery of AIDA's courses at the local level, training instructors and freedivers while promoting athlete development through scientific research on breath-hold techniques. Additionally, these organizations report and submit national record attempts for ratification by AIDA International, maintaining a consistent framework for record validation worldwide. On the international front, maintains partnerships with bodies like the European Underwater Federation (EUF), where it holds associate membership status to coordinate European events and advance as a . It engages in ongoing dialogue with the (CMAS) to address shared interests in safety, education, and , despite separate record recognition systems. This network of affiliates has facilitated the growth of AIDA's reach, as evidenced by the 2025 Pool World Championships, which drew 193 participants from 49 countries.

Freediving Disciplines

Pool Disciplines

Pool disciplines in AIDA International encompass indoor freediving events conducted in controlled environments, focusing on breath-hold endurance and horizontal underwater propulsion without the need for open-water access. These disciplines include (STA), where athletes hold their breath underwater for maximum time while remaining motionless; with (DYN), involving horizontal distance swimming using a single ; with Bifins (DYNB), similar but using two separate fins; and Dynamic No Fins (DNF), where distance is achieved through body undulation and arm-assisted propulsion without any fins. Competitions occur in pools of at least 25 meters in length with sufficient width for multiple lanes and a minimum depth of 0.9 meters for international dynamic events or 1.2 meters for world championships, though deeper pools are preferred for safety and visibility. Athletes must announce their target performance—either time for STA or distance for the dynamic disciplines—prior to each attempt, with the realized performance judged against this announcement; shortfalls incur penalties (0.2 points per second for STA or 0.5 points per meter for dynamics), while exceeding the target validates the attempt without penalty. Judging is conducted by at least two AIDA-certified judges who issue white cards for valid performances, yellow for minor infractions, or red for disqualifications such as incomplete surface protocols or prohibited movements; all attempts require a post-surface "" signal (hand gesture and verbal confirmation) within 15 seconds to confirm the athlete's well-being. Safety protocols mandate standby divers positioned along the pool edges—one per zone for STA and at least one per lane for dynamic disciplines—who monitor for blackout risks and assist if needed, alongside a required on-site event medic trained in . Techniques in pool disciplines prioritize mental relaxation to extend breath-hold capacity, efficient equalization of ear pressure during immersion, and streamlined propulsion to minimize oxygen consumption; for dynamic events, this includes optimized finning or undulation techniques with open-palm turns at pool walls, prohibiting surface breaks or arm recoveries above water. Equipment is strictly limited to enhance fairness and safety: a nose clip, mask or goggles, and snorkel are permitted across all disciplines, with a monofin allowed only for DYN, bifins for DYNB, and no fins for DNF or STA; no additional propulsion aids, such as weights beyond 3 kg under the wetsuit or flotation devices for assistance, are permitted. These pool disciplines were introduced in the early 1990s following AIDA's founding in 1992, aiming to standardize and promote breath-hold diving in accessible indoor settings as an alternative to depth-based open-water challenges.

Depth Disciplines

Depth disciplines in AIDA International freediving competitions involve vertical dives in open water, where athletes attempt to reach a predetermined depth on a single breath-hold and return to the surface under specific constraints, contrasting with the horizontal, controlled environment of pool disciplines. These disciplines emphasize mental relaxation, physiological adaptation to pressure, and precise movement to achieve maximum depth safely. The primary competitive depth disciplines are defined by the propulsion methods and equipment allowed during descent and ascent. In Constant Weight (CWT), the freediver descends and ascends using a monofin or bi-fins for propulsion, with no changes to ballast or pulling on the competition rope except for a single hold at the start or near the bottom plate. Constant Weight No Fins (CNF) requires descent and ascent using only arm and leg movements, such as breaststroke, without any fins or rope pulling beyond limited exceptions. Free Immersion (FIM) permits propulsion solely by pulling or sliding along the competition rope during both descent and ascent, without fins. Variations include Constant Weight Bi-Fins (CWTB), which restricts propulsion to bi-fins without dolphin kicks, mirroring CWT rules but emphasizing traditional finning styles. Variable Weight (VWT) is a record attempt discipline (not used in competitions) that allows a weighted for descent, followed by an unaided ascent using or pulling, with fins optional. No Limits (NLT), which permits any means for descent and ascent including a and devices like lift bags, has not been sanctioned by AIDA since 2015 due to elevated risks and is no longer competed. Competitions in these disciplines occur in open water bodies such as seas or lakes, with a fixed competition line marked to the target depth, announced in advance by the athlete. Success is judged based on touching the bottom plate at or beyond the announced depth, retrieving a tag, and completing a surface protocol that includes a clear head signal and providing the athlete's number to confirm consciousness, all observed by two judges. Violations, such as unauthorized rope grabbing or incomplete surface protocols, result in penalties or disqualification. Safety measures are mandatory, including at least three certified safety freedivers per line (capable of depths up to 30 meters for deeper attempts), support boats, an on-site event medic with training, and bottom cameras for verification. Key techniques in depth disciplines center on managing physiological challenges during the dive. Depth equalization involves advanced methods like the Frenzel or mouth-fill techniques to counteract increasing pressure on the ears and sinuses, taught progressively in courses from basic to master levels. Black-out prevention focuses on monitoring oxygen levels through controlled breathing patterns pre-dive and recognizing early signs of hypoxia, with protocols for immediate rescue by safety divers. Buoyancy management entails optimizing body position for free-fall descent to conserve energy and using streamlined movements to control ascent speed, particularly important in variable open-water conditions. Standard equipment includes wetsuits (up to 7 mm in saltwater), weight belts for ballast, nose clips for equalization, and a safety lanyard connecting the athlete to the rope; for VWT, a weighted with quick-release is required.

Education and Certifications

Freediver Qualification Levels

AIDA International's freediver qualification levels form a progressive certification system designed to build skills in breath-hold diving from introductory to master levels, emphasizing safety, technique, and physiological understanding. The system includes four core levels—AIDA1 (Introduction to ), AIDA2 (Freediver), AIDA3 (Advanced Freediver), and AIDA4 (Master Freediver)—each with specific performance benchmarks in disciplines such as (STA), dynamic bi-fins (DYNB), and (CWTB). The AIDA1 level introduces basic freediving concepts and skills, requiring participants to demonstrate relaxation, finning techniques, duck dives, and equalization without specific apnea or distance benchmarks, with a maximum depth of 10 meters. AIDA2 builds foundational abilities, mandating a hold of 2 minutes, a 40-meter dynamic bi-fins swim, and a 12-meter dive, capped at 20 meters depth. At AIDA3, freedivers must achieve a 2:45-minute , 55-meter dynamic bi-fins, and 24-meter , with training up to 30 meters. The AIDA4 level targets expert proficiency, requiring a 3:30-minute , 70-meter dynamic bi-fins, and 32-meter , allowing depths to 38 meters. Prerequisites for all levels include a minimum age of 18 years (or 16-17 with ), the ability to swim 100-300 meters non-stop depending on the level, and completion of a medical statement confirming no contraindications to , such as cardiovascular or respiratory conditions; a full medical examination is recommended if any health questionnaire responses indicate risks. Training must occur under supervised instructor-led sessions, incorporating theory on physiology, breath-hold mechanics, and safety protocols, with a minimum of 1-6 water sessions and classroom time per level. Assessment involves a theoretical requiring at least 75% proficiency on topics like and , alongside practical evaluations in controlled pool and open-water environments, including skills such as surface support and recovery techniques integrated progressively from AIDA2 onward. Certifications are issued upon successful completion and do not have a fixed expiration, though ongoing practice and periodic refreshers are encouraged to maintain skills. For younger participants, AIDA offers adapted specialties through its Youth Programme, including Bronze Dolphin, Silver Dolphin, and Gold Dolphin courses for ages 6-11, focusing on basic water confidence, , and introductory breath-hold without depth disciplines, and the AIDA Junior course for ages 12-15, which aligns more closely with adult-level skills but with reduced benchmarks. These youth programs prioritize fun, safety, and progressive skill-building in supervised settings.

Instructor and Safety Training Programs

AIDA International offers a structured of instructor s to ensure standardized and safe delivery of education worldwide. The entry-level Instructor qualifies individuals to teach AIDA 1 through 3 courses, as well as specialties. Prerequisites include holding an AIDA 4 and a valid qualification obtained within the past two years. The training spans seven days, comprising eight classroom sessions totaling 12 hours, three confined water sessions, and five open water sessions, with a focus on , , and emergency response protocols. Advancing to Master Instructor allows certification of students up to AIDA 4, , and Freediver levels (with status). Candidates must have served as an Instructor for at least 12 months and completed at least 50 student certifications, including 20 AIDA 2 and 10 AIDA 3 courses. This level emphasizes advanced techniques and deeper knowledge of AIDA rules and . Further progression to Instructor Trainer enables oversight of all levels, including conducting Instructor Courses to train new Instructors. Requirements include 12 months as a Master Instructor and 100 total student certifications, with specifics of 30 AIDA 2, 20 AIDA 3, and 10 AIDA 4 courses, alongside exams on response and ethical instruction. Complementing instructor training, AIDA provides specialized safety programs to equip personnel for event oversight and risk mitigation. The Pool Competition Safety course certifies individuals for safety roles in pool disciplines like (STA) and (DYN), requiring an AIDA 2 certification and covering four classroom sessions (7.5 hours total) plus three pool sessions over two days, with emphasis on rescue techniques and oxygen management. Similarly, the Depth Competition Safety specialty prepares for depth events up to 20 meters, mandating AIDA 2, four classroom sessions (8 hours), and three open water sessions over two days, focusing on and blackout prevention. These programs are mandatory for all AIDA-sanctioned competitions to uphold participant safety. Courses are delivered globally through AIDA's network of national affiliates, ensuring localized access while maintaining uniform standards. prioritizes ethical teaching practices, including adherence to AIDA's , and integrates accident prevention through comprehensive coverage of , equalization, and emergency procedures in all instructor curricula.

Competitions

Pool World Championships

The AIDA Pool World Championships are premier international competitions organized by AIDA International, focusing on horizontal disciplines conducted in controlled indoor pool environments. These events encompass both individual and team categories, bringing together elite athletes to compete in breath-hold performances that emphasize technique, endurance, and precision. Held periodically since the late 1990s, the championships serve as a cornerstone of AIDA's competitive framework, fostering global participation and skill development in pool-based . The history of the Pool World Championships traces back to the inaugural Team World Championship in 1996, hosted in , , which featured national teams competing in core pool disciplines to establish early standards for organized events. Individual competitions emerged later, with the first Individual Pool World Championship taking place in 2005 in Renens, , marking a shift toward broader athlete involvement beyond national squads. Over the subsequent two decades, the events have evolved into annual gatherings, with numbering reflecting consistent progression—such as the 30th edition in 2023, the 32nd in 2024, and the 34th in 2025—demonstrating 's commitment to regular international showcases despite occasional logistical variations. In terms of event structure, the championships are conducted in 25-meter or 50-meter pools to accommodate the horizontal nature of the disciplines: Static Apnea (STA), Dynamic Apnea with Fins (DYN), Dynamic Apnea with Bifins (DYNB), and Dynamic No Fins (DNF). Competitions span multiple days, typically featuring qualifying heats followed by finals, where athletes perform under strict protocols to ensure safety and fairness. Team events involve national squads of three athletes plus one alternate, selected to represent their countries in combined rankings, while individual categories allow open participation across age and gender divisions. Judging panels, consisting of at least six certified officials from diverse nationalities, oversee performances using video reviews and card systems (white for valid, yellow for minor infractions, red for disqualifications) to maintain integrity. Awards are presented to the top three finishers in each category, with medals and recognition highlighting outstanding achievements. Qualification for the Pool World Championships emphasizes , with individual athletes typically advancing through national rankings or by achieving positions in the top 10 of the prior year's AIDA global ranking list, which grants wildcard entries. National federations play a key role in nominating team members based on objective performance criteria, ensuring representation from affiliated countries. This system promotes competitive depth, as athletes must demonstrate consistent results in sanctioned events leading up to the world level. A notable example is the 34th AIDA Pool World Championship held from June 25 to July 3, 2025, in Wakayama, , which attracted a record 234 athletes from 49 countries, underscoring the event's growing international appeal. The multi-day format included dedicated sessions for each , with preliminaries filtering competitors into finals, and comprehensive safety measures enforced throughout. These championships hold significant value in the community by enhancing accessibility through indoor settings, which require minimal equipment and lower physiological risks compared to open-water events, thereby encouraging broader participation and serving as a foundational step for athletes progressing to depth disciplines.

Depth World Championships

The AIDA Depth World Championships represent the premier international competition for individual in open water, commencing with the first event in 2005 in , . These championships evolved from earlier team-based events in the 1990s, marking over two decades of individual depth competitions by 2025, with the 35th edition held from September 20 to October 3 in , . Venues have rotated globally to showcase diverse natural environments, including Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, in 2007 and , , , in 2024, adapting to optimal sea or lake conditions for depth disciplines. This progression reflects AIDA's commitment to annual events since the mid-2010s, celebrating milestones such as ratifying over 300 world records across its competitions. During the 2025 edition in , notable achievements included setting a new AIDA world record in Constant Weight with Bi-Fins (CWTB) at 126 meters. The event structure emphasizes safety and fairness in natural water settings, featuring four core depth disciplines: Constant Weight Apnea with Fins (CWT), Constant Weight Apnea without Fins (CNF), Free Immersion Apnea (FIM), and Variable Weight Apnea (VWT). Competitions operate in individual formats, with team elements in select editions where national squads compete collectively; qualification requires AIDA freediver certifications (typically Level 3 or higher), top placements in regional or national events, and selection via AIDA's annual rankings or wildcard slots for prior record holders. Formats include multiple rounds over 10-14 days, incorporating rest periods between disciplines to mitigate fatigue, with athletes announcing their target depths in advance during pre-dive briefings. Safety protocols are integral, mandating at least three certified safety per line, an on-site medical professional, systems for descent control, and counterweights for surface recovery. Dives are officiated by a minimum of two AIDA judges, one positioned underwater, with start intervals scaled by depth (e.g., 10 minutes for dives over 100 meters) to ensure recovery time. As the pinnacle of competitive , these championships foster technical innovation, such as refined equalization methods and finning efficiency, while contrasting the controlled conditions of pool events by testing athletes against unpredictable variables.

Records

Pool Discipline Records

AIDA's pool discipline records highlight the extreme physiological limits of breath-hold swimming in controlled indoor settings, focusing on , , and technique across static and dynamic categories. These records are set during competitions or official attempts under strict AIDA supervision, emphasizing horizontal movement in 50-meter pools. As of November 2025, the governing records showcase incremental progress by elite athletes, with notable achievements in recent world championships. Recent 2025 updates include Ming (William Joy) Jin's 319 m DYN in November and Julia Kozerska's 222.5 m DNF in June. The current world records in pool disciplines are summarized below:
DisciplineGenderAthleteNationalityPerformanceDateLocationSource
Static Apnea (STA)MenStéphane Mifsud11 min 35 sec8 June 2009,
Static Apnea (STA)WomenHeike Schwerdtner9 min 22 sec4 May 2025,
Dynamic Apnea (DYN, monofin)MenMing (William Joy) Jin319 mNovember 2025AIDA Asian Pool Championship
Dynamic Apnea (DYN, monofin)WomenZsófia Törőcsik280 m2 July 2025Wakayama,
Dynamic Bi-Fins (DYNB)MenGuillaume Bourdila298 m28 June 2025Wakayama,
Dynamic Bi-Fins (DYNB)WomenZsófia Törőcsik259 m28 June 2025Wakayama,
Dynamic No Fins (DNF)MenMateusz Malina250 m1 May 2022,
Dynamic No Fins (DNF)WomenJulia Kozerska222.5 m30 June 2025Wakayama,
To ratify a world record, a performance must surpass the existing mark by a minimum of 1 meter in dynamic disciplines or 15 seconds in , supported by synchronized dual-camera video footage for judge review. Athletes undergo pre- and post-dive medical assessments, including blood tests for doping compliance via 's anti-doping program, and the attempt must occur under official competition rules with certified judges present. By 2025, has ratified more than 330 across all disciplines, reflecting rigorous verification to maintain integrity. Historically, pool records have shown steady progression, roughly doubling in both distance and duration since the 1990s, driven by innovations in breath-hold training, mental preparation techniques, and specialized gear such as low-drag monofins. For instance, the men's DNF record advanced from 113 meters in 1996 to 250 meters today, while STA times for men evolved from under 6 minutes in the early 1990s to over 11 minutes, underscoring enhanced CO2 tolerance and O2 efficiency through scientific coaching.

Depth Discipline Records

The depth disciplines in AIDA International emphasize vertical in open water, where athletes descend and ascend using breath-hold techniques without scuba assistance, adhering to strict protocols involving judges, buoys, and surface support teams. Records in these disciplines—Constant Weight (CWT), Constant Weight No Fins (CNF), Free Immersion (FIM), Variable Weight (VWT), and No Limits (NLT)—represent the pinnacle of physiological limits under pressure, with ratifications requiring video evidence, judge verification, and medical clearance to ensure protocol compliance. As of November 2025, the men's CWT world record stands at 136 meters, set by in September 2023 during the 31st World Championship in , . In CNF, Petar Klovar of holds the men's record at 103 meters, ratified in May 2025 at the World Cup in , , surpassing the previous 102-meter mark held since 2016. The women's FIM record is 103 meters by Sanda Delija of , achieved and approved in May 2025 at the Mabini Depth Quest in the . VWT and NLT remain less contested; the last ratified VWT record dates to 2018 at 149 meters for men, while NLT has not been officially recognized by since 2012 due to safety concerns, with historical depths like Herbert Nitsch's 253-meter dive serving as a non-competitive benchmark. Recent 2025 ratifications highlight advancements in and , such as refined equalization techniques and aids, with the CNF and FIM undergoing rigorous review by at least two AIDA or higher judges observing tag retrieval at designated buoys. The process mandates real-time video from multiple angles, post-dive medical checks, and a 24-hour blackout period to prevent blackouts, as seen in Klovar's and Delija's successful attempts without protocol violations. While crossovers from pool disciplines, like Zsófia Törőcsik's dynamic prowess, have influenced depth strategies, 2025 updates focused on pure vertical achievements amid growing numbers at like the 35th AIDA . Historically, 's depth records began in the mid-, with the first CWT men's record at by Umberto Pelizzari in 1995, evolving from earlier informal dives around 50 meters in the early . Progression accelerated in the 2000s, crossing the 100-meter barrier in 2004 with Guillaume Nery's 102-meter dive, reaching 105 meters by 2005, driven by innovations in fin design and mental preparation. By the 2010s, records exceeded 130 meters, but safety incidents, including fatalities from shallow-water blackouts and decompression risks, prompted to impose stricter limits like one attempt per day per discipline and mandatory safety freediver protocols, curbing extreme NLT pursuits while prioritizing athlete welfare.
DisciplineGenderAthlete (Nationality)DepthDateEventStatus
CWTMenAlexey Molchanov (INT)136 m29/09/202331st AIDA Freediving World ChampionshipApproved
CNFMenPetar Klovar (HRV)103 m26/05/2025AIDA Freediving World CupRatified
FIMWomenSanda Delija (HRV)103 m04/05/2025AIDA Mabini Depth QuestApproved

References

  1. https://www.aidainternational.org/about
  2. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/561
  3. https://www.aidainternational.org/
  4. https://us.molchanovs.com/blogs/latest/33rd-aida-freediving-world-championship
  5. https://www.apnoevision.ch/6.2_apnoe_3.htm
  6. https://us.molchanovs.com/blogs/latest/international-freediving-federations-you-need-to-know-cmas-vs-aida
  7. https://www.aidainternational.org/competitive
  8. http://www.waterworld.ee/index.php?mid=41&id=96
  9. https://www.aidainternational.org/About/17
  10. https://seanomad-freediving.com/en/content/history-freediving
  11. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/471
  12. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/592
  13. https://www.deeperblue.com/aida-international-president-carla-sue-hanson-passes-away/
  14. https://www.euf.eu/en/members/associate-members
  15. https://www.deeperblue.com/aida-international-announce-new-board-members-and-partnership-with-european-underwater-federation/
  16. https://aidainternational.org/Contact
  17. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/441
  18. https://www.dansa.org/blog/2022/07/06/ensuring-safety-in-freediving-competitions
  19. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaeOdRY6Qnw
  20. https://divernet.com/scuba-news/freediving/freediver-molchanov-breaks-40th-world-record/
  21. https://www.aidainternational.org/BoardANDMembers
  22. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/434
  23. https://h2oteam.com/wp-content/uploads/old/data/PravilnikiPDF/aidastatut.pdf
  24. https://aida-japan.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/AIDA-International-Competition-Rules-v14.1-E-and-J.pdf
  25. https://www.aidainternational.org/EventPage/4349
  26. https://www.cipapnea.fr/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AIDA_RulesRegulations-2024-V17_5.pdf
  27. https://www.aidainternational.org/Education/AIDAFreedivingCourses
  28. https://www.freediving-planet.com/aida
  29. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/100
  30. https://www.deeperblue.com/results-from-aida-individual-pool-world-championships/
  31. https://forums.deeperblue.com/threads/qualification-criteria-for-individual-world-champs.81916/
  32. https://www.aidainternational.org/[News](/page/News)
  33. https://us.molchanovs.com/blogs/latest/35th-aida-freediving-world-championship
  34. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/523
  35. https://slmworldnews.com/2025/09/26/third-day-of-the-aida-freediving-world-championships-delivers-stunning-bi-fins-performances/
  36. https://www.aidainternational.org/EventPage/4350
  37. https://www.aidainternational.org/Ranking/
  38. https://www.facebook.com/aidafreediving/posts/1248737380630834
  39. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/584
  40. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/583
  41. https://www.aidainternational.org/WorldRecords/History/DynamicWithoutFins
  42. https://freedivingranking.com/athlete/julia-kozerska
  43. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/574
  44. https://www.aidainternational.org/WorldRecords/History
  45. https://www.aidainternational.org/WorldRecords
  46. https://us.molchanovs.com/blogs/latest/current-cmas-and-aida-freediving-world-records
  47. https://www.aidainternational.org/WorldRecords/History/ConstantWeightWithoutFins
  48. https://www.aidainternational.org/PostDetails/562
  49. https://www.aidainternational.org/News
  50. https://www.aidainternational.org/WorldRecords/History/ConstantWeight
  51. https://www.aidainternational.org/WorldRecords/History/FreeImmersion
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