Stig Severinsen

November 12, 2012

I hold the Guinness World Record for the longest breath hold of 22 minutes, AND for the longest freedive under ice on a single breath of air (236 feet) in speedos. My name is Stig Severinsen, I am a four time freediving world champion, and hold a PhD in Medicine. Ask me anything.

Proof GWR for 22 minute breath hold VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqERqQj-ozc&

GWR Validated (22 mins) http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/1000/longest-time-breath-held-voluntarily-%28male%29

GWR for ice dive (236 feet) VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_y8TeORDTY&

GWR Validated (Ice Dive): http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/1000/longest-swim-under-ice-breath-held

5 Questions

1) How do you train to get your body and mind ready for these extreme records?

2) What do you think about as you are holding your breath for that long?

3) Can you suffer from brain damage holding your breath for that long?

4) Why do you do these extreme records?

5) How do I get started in freediving and breath holding?

Front Page - Thank You Reddit - You Are The Best. Keep Your Question Coming. I am doing the best to answer them, but I am being FLOODED right now! And soon have to go do some training in the ocean! But this sure has been fun! I would love to come back some other time...

Been a long awesome day with you all! Literally impossible to answer all of your questions. Keep posting your questions and sharing the conversation with your network, and I will get back to answering more tomorrow! Thanks for your understanding! This was really fun!

UPDATE 11/13/12: Thanks so much for an awesome time here on Reddit! I am planning to do this again sometime in the future! Have an awesome rest of the week!

UPDATE 11/16/12: Due to the sheer amount of attention this post has gotten online, I will be spending time this weekend answering more of your questions. Right now, my book on amazon is sold out, but if you would like to download it immediately, please go to breatheology.com, and on the front page you will see it available (Ebook).

FINAL UPDATE - THANK YOU ALL - PLEASE SEE ALL DETAILS IN VIDEO BELOW - DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS!!

UPDATE 11/18/12: I´m back...as promised;) - Will answer some questions now but running out of time. Instead I have made a special Thank YOU video (LINK BELOW). I hope this will bring new value to YOU and the rest of the Reddit "family";) - We will announce the winners here on Reddit after the expiration date Nov. 25th 2012. AND remember - that winner might very well be Y-O-U;) - Enjoy the video below and make sure not to miss the important details in the end. Thank you all once again - this has been GREAT and it would be fun to come back;) http://youtu.be/gv9LBFyaozg

Friendly, THE STIG (aka NOT the race car driver...but "Aquaman" coined by you all) :-)

Happy Thanksgiving to all - thank you for great engagement - here is a special Thank You for all in the Reddit "family" - be sure not to miss the goodies in the video...and stay tunes for a fabulous "Black Friday" surprise;) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv9LBFyaozg

FINAL UPDATE. Reddit Challenge closed. Thank you all for taking a chance and congrats to Jeff G for winning a FREE Lifetime Membership in our brand new Breatheology Academy. - It looks like this;) - http://www.breatheologyacademy.com - and you are always welcome - signup is FREE;)

Just a random question but, how do you like reddit so far in those 22 hours since you signed up?

Just a random question but, how do you like reddit so far in those 22 hours since you signed up?

i saw the program you were in on the television the other day! crazy shit, well done!

Thanks!

You sir, you are the coolest guy ever.

You sir, you are the coolest guy ever.

Why hasn't anyone asked for proof that this is really him?

This was made 16 hours ago yet still has no verification.

Why hasn't anyone asked for proof that this is really him?

This was made 16 hours ago yet still has no verification.

It is indeed me. Trust me on this.

Why hasn't anyone asked for proof that this is really him?

This was made 16 hours ago yet still has no verification.

Holy shit you are the coolest dude on the planet

Holy shit you are the coolest dude on the planet

You've proven that Stig Severinsen holds these records, but could you provide proof that the person answering these questions is actually Stig Severinsen?

You've proven that Stig Severinsen holds these records, but could you provide proof that the person answering these questions is actually Stig Severinsen?

Hi Stig,

Too late for this game. But 10-11 years ago while I was in high school I helped you edit a small movie together. It was around 6 or 7 minutes long which was the time you were able to hold your breath back then.

We used Air - All I Need, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cV6vp98FPFY, for the background. And I still feel this is the perfect choice for diving. There's something so relaxing and soothing about it.

What are some stretches you use to stretch your lungs and diaphragm? How do they help you? Also do you hunt Pelagics??

Do you believe in God? If so, do you believe this is a gift from God? Or just extensive training?

Some say he's half merman

Some say he only mates under an ice sheet

All we know is... HE'S THE STIG

In your TED talk you mentioned a change in the thalamus in the brains of free-divers. Could you expand on this? What exactly is the nature of the change and what are its implications?

Thanks!

In your TED talk you mentioned a change in the thalamus in the brains of free-divers. Could you expand on this? What exactly is the nature of the change and what are its implications?

Thanks!

In your TED talk you mention that there's a change in the thalamus in the brains of free divers. Could you expand on this? What exactly is the nature of this change and what implications does it have?

Thanks!

Hi Stig. You have done a lot of alternative training to improve your abilities as a free diver - can you see a direct biological affect of these training methods or is it more psychological? Maybe the two things are too closely linked to tell?

Did you hyperventilate before your held your breath?

How long can you stay under water with one scuba tank or air?

When did you know you didn't need much oxygen to survive?

Without any former training of any kind, I can hold my breath for 4 minutes. Any tips on how to improve?

Thanks for doing this AMA! Quick question, if I'd like to get started what are some good resources for beginners? Also, you started at a very young age, is it too late for someone who's already 30?

FUCK U! ILL KICK THE SHIT OUR OF UR ASS!!!

Some say the Stig can hold his breath for the longest time in the world... Which he can!

My super power is "I can breathe automatic and manual now that I think about it."

Are you some sort of super human?

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You're awesome!

You are welcome! :)

Have you encountered any brain problems, being deprived of oxygen so long?

Are you the man you've dreamed to become as a kid?

Do you know Ph. D Terry Spohn??? I swear he says in class he has a friend that sounds similar to you...

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..22 minutes? I am a whale. AMA.

I think we saw you on some show a few weeks ago. Amazing.

We are in Thailand. My wife and myself spend all the time we can snorkeling in the Andaman. My wife would love to.learn to freedive. I tell her first she has to learn to swim.

Your ability to reduce your heart rate based on Vipassana meditation technique?

How is it that people drown if human beings have the capacity to hold their breaths for so much longer? Clearly, some of it must be physiological changes due to your huge amount of training, but that can't be all, can it? Is this even well-studied?

What's your deal with making me feel like I'm a worthless piece of flesh sitting in front of my computer?

What do you do to keep your head above water in this economy? Assuming holding your breathe is not a full time job.

Did you practice to be able to do such things, or were you as good at it since the day you were born?

So you have a PhD and you don't understand that depriving the brain of oxygen for such a long amount of time even once does permanent damage?

Was Organic Chemistry tough?

[deleted]

are you as cool as I think you are based on the title?

You mentioned that to avoid brain damage/keep your heart pumping, "you must be able to lower your metabolism and not burn too much oxygen." Do you try to do this with your thoughts as well?

Your brain ends up consuming a large part of your oxygen and demands a lot from your metabolism. By this, I mean do you try and avoid thoughts that might be metabolically demanding on your brain or do you have some routine thoughts that limit the extent your brain requires blood? Or do you instead focus not on your thoughts but on trying to keep your other physiological parameters in check?

do you like the movie "le grand bleu" ?

Are there any unusual side effects in your health big or small based on what you do?

Do you practice Hypopressive exercises? Are they good also for non proffesionals to improve health? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypopressive_exercise

Do you have any general life advice? The sort of stuff that just clicked at one point and you went "Oh, that's the attitude I need to have to accomplish all my dreams and become a Guinness World Record guy?

Is you'r mom a mermaid?

the top comment here should have been "do you even lift?"

Why

Have you ever experienced hypothermia or a related cold-related sickness/disease from your ice diving?

I have heard that you swallow air into your stomach right before you dive and burp at the end to use it. Is this a real technique or just a false explanation of your last few seconds of hyperventilating?

How has your knowledge of medicine assisted you in setting these records?

Hej Stig. En redditor fra Danmark. Super fedt at se en kendt dansker på IAmA.. Ved du hvad dit kondital ligger på?

How long could you have survived in the north Atlantic water in which the Titanic sank?

You sir, are awesome.

Is it true the Danish speak with potatoes in their mouth?

BRB, breaking record.

Does blood doping or EPO use exist in freediving? Seems a prime target - increase the blood oxygen level and last longer?

How does it feel like to be be a world champion?

Ever seen the movie The Big Blue?

Ever seen the movie The Big Blue?

This guy capitalized the "AND" and is therefore a fucking douche. Why are you all fawning over this body that happens to be human as well?

I like you!

I like you!

It would be good idea to explain the dangers involved. Why people should not train by themselves and what has happened to others.

Some say that he's able to hold his breath for 22 minutes and that he holds a PHD in Medicine. All we know is HES CALLED THE STIG!

Are you THE Stig?

paging dr. Diver

WTF is a PhD in medicine?

I met a guy in Vancouver who nearly talked me into starting this as a sport as it would help with the asthma I get in the summer months. His name is Kirk Krack. His wife/girlfriend helped in the making of the movie The Cove if I remember correctly. Some people practice in Buntzen Lake not far from my home. Sadly, someone died while practising free-diving there a few years ago. It's an extremely cold lake, glacier fed. Very sad.

I am amazed at the extremities involved. Amazing sport. Good luck!

Hello good sir, this is some great stuff you have done. I came to think about this underwater hunter: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgRpwESWPLM Who also is holding his breath for several minutes, staying on the "floor" of the sea and also hunting (physical activity) while doing this, whats your thoughts on this?

Not that I doubt you, but how in the fuck is it even possible to hold your breath for 22 minutes. I mean You'd have to enter into hypothermia I thought. Even with a low heart rate, your body should still be consuming more oxygen than you can store over 22 minutes. Or at least that's what I've been led to believe.

What kind of science is there behind it? Are you just different, or is there a specific method/ conditions that would let someone hold their breath for close to that?

Just curious, it's mind boggling. Props to you!

How long is your beard at this precise moment?

Do you know the missing free diver champion Adel Abu Haliqa from the United Arab Emirates ? http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/family-cling-to-hope-for-missing-emirati-freediver

I bet the ladies are pretty happy about you holding your breath for 22 mins. If you know what I mean.

I bet the ladies are pretty happy about you holding your breath for 22 mins. If you know what I mean.

What's it like to be the world's biggest badass?

My asshole always itches the day after I eat popcorn.
Is this normal?

Du er for vild, Stig! Stor respekt for hvad du gør, specielt at du igennem det hele har fokus på at hjælpe og inspirere andre.

Du er med til at sætte Danmark på verdenskortet, og nu i høj grad Reddit's verdenskort :)

Wow.... not even a single Monkey Island / Guybrush Threepwood reference ....

[deleted]

We have purchased a medal for you , it should be arriving in 4-6 weeks .

Probably a good idea not to hold your breath on that one

Does your ability to go down for so long make you very popular with the women?

This man, is kind of a douche.

I have this cool trick when I'm drunk. I found that when I've had a bit to drink I can hold my breathe in the pool for 5-7 minutes. I cant come anywhere near this while sober. Is there a reason for this? Or is it simply that the fear drowning is gone after a few drinks?

I'm assuming you're big on meditating? Is that how you fall asleep? I have troubles sleeping and just wanted to know if you have any tips on entering sub-consciousness.

Regular or menthol?

Some say he can hold his breath while still holding a conversation and his sneezes are too quick to see with the naked eye, all we know is he's called the Stig!

Are you Kevin Costner?

Hej Stig Ville bare sige, at jeg synes du er pisse cool! Har flere gange hørt Casper Tybjerg fortælle om dig, og jeg har også set en dokumentarfilm om dig, hvor du nærmest stoppede dit hjerte. Utrolig fascinerende!

Sorry to non-danish speakers. Just had to thank the man, he's incredible :)

How do you feel about your record being broken a few days ago?

how?

I saw you the other night on that Superhuman show and was very impressed. I wonder though, what do you think about while you're holding your breath for 22 minutes?

whats it like being an xman?

With that name the only question is...are you know or have you ever driven "the reasonably priced car"

Where you hiding the gillyweed.

Unrelated to diving or holding your breath under water, but I'm a huge runner, and clearly you must have some incredible cardio, so I was wondering, do you know your time for the mile, three mile, etc.? It intrigues me, great AmA!

you cheated, what's the record without cheating gas?

Do you even lift?

Do you hyperventilate before you go in the water to prevent excess CO2 from causing you to involuntarily breathe?

Ever use this ability to pick up the chicks?

How long can you hold your breath for underwater breathing 'normal air'?? like the rest of us breathe?

No 'pure oxygen' formula.

Are you a fish?

Are you THE Stig?

One of my fears is holding my breath underwater, do you know how I could find someone who could teach me how to hold my breath longer and not fear?

[deleted]

How big of a bong rip can you take?

But can he hold it?

Stig,...King of the Wall Tokes!

Doing the funky chicken.

I just wanted to say that you are an inspiration to all of us that took up freediving as the drug of choice. you are and will always be, the Stig!

Sorry, a little late to the post but, as a young diver, (only 15) what are the major keys to holding your breath for a long time? What can i do to improve my down time? thank you!

How did you first start practicing holding your breath for that long.. I can only stay for up to a minute haha

Could you hold your breath for 22 minutes outside of the water? Are you underwater to prove that you're not breathing, or because it helps with holding your breath?

Have you ever died?

[deleted]

How do you actually hold your breath for that long?

How many times have you drown while practicing for the world record?

I love your work on TOP GEAR . Love you STIG. Haha

I too love your Top Gear work, as a machine it should be easier to hold your breath

When you drink beer, do you prefer Dos Equis?

Thank you for taking the time to do this AMA. What is your favorite sex position?

Since time really means nothing to a body, breathing I feel is the bodies clock. Have you ever thought you could live longer because you can breathe slower?

second question, and this may be ridiculous....

have you ever felt like you were a fish while diving? I was in a pool one time and I maybe a squeaking noise and felt like I was a dolphin. i'll stop posting for the day after that question

What's the difference between an MD and a PhD in medicine?

I know that this will get buried but I just want to go on the record by saying that this is one of the best AMAs I've read in a long time. Keep doing your thing and remain awesome.

Would someone with a lower metabolism naturally be able to hold their breath longer than someone with a higher metabolism, all other things being equal?

Have you ever smoked a cigarette?

You had me at 'PhD in Medicine' :)

does the discomfort of holding your breath go away the more you do it? or do you just get used to having it?

I was thinking about asking you a question.. But don't hold your breath.

In a battle against Michael Phelps do you think his speed or your endurance would win out?

talk about coincidence! i litterally finished watching your 22 min record on tv no more than 5 mins ago!

What do you know about dinosaurs?

What are you terrible at?

Are you a human being... Seriously the hell?!

BOOST

What's the best way to treat a common cold doc?

Have you ever practiced/dived in Cuba? what are your favorite countries to dive?

Questions	Answers
Is it true that dating is hard for you because no one can take your breath away?	Ha ha...no my girlfriend loves that I can stay a long time under water under in the spa :-)
Does Guinness have a world record for that?	You should ask them. They are open to all kinds of new strange records! NO KIDDING!
1) Teach her your ways 2) Simulate space sex 3) ??? 4) Profit.	LMAO!
Do you ever do it at the local swimming pool to mess with the lifeguards?	Yes...when I was young and stupid I did this. I also used to tell my classmates that I was "watching television" as I was laying on the bottom. However, NEVER do this in your local swimming pool because your lifeguard might not save you, and it is not his responsibility.
	I come from a professional background of swimming, and have lost several friends from mistakes holding their breath alone. NEVER do any of this. A big mission of mine is to educate people around the world on these specific safety issues.
	I have a book (Breatheology), where I talk a lot about safety, and first aid.

View the full table on /r/tabled! | Last updated: 2012-11-16 23:54 UTC

This comment was generated by a robot! Send all complaints to epsy.

When you go to the bar to pick up girls, are you able to tell them your awesomeness in one breath?

Probably too late and someone has probably asked this yes i ctr f

Have you ever talked to david blaine in person?

Did you also battle testicular Cancer?

[deleted]

How long can you hold your breath without being fully oxygenated?

I had a dream once where I had the ability to hold my breath underwater for super long periods of time; it was as if I discovered some sort of secret. But that was just a dream.

How does it feel to know you are living that dream? What's it like knowing that you can hold your breath for that long? How did it feel when you were setting the record? Obviously you weren't nervous, since you took a deep breath beforehand :P

Have you ever used your ability for charity advantages? I think that having people bet money on how long you can hold your breath (example:10 bucks per minute) for a good cause would be an amazing way to use your skill.

I was watching a story on ESPN last year. I think it was an E:60 program entitled "Risk" and there was a free diver featured on the show. Would you happen to be that free diver or know that free diver?

I am The Brown!

You're obviously tremendously talented, and yet judging from the description of this AMA, you're still striving for the approval and admiration of others. Is deep-seated insecurity the reason you've accomplished so much in your life?

boxers, briefs, or all natural?

What's your favorite color? But seriously did your phd in medicine have anything to do with the records or vice versa?

What's it like to be able to command fish and what's up with the orange and green outfit? Do you know Namor?

Does everyone understand that he was breathing pure oxygen for 30 minutes prior to the breath holding? The record without an oxygen breathup is somewhere over eleven minutes I believe. Which in my opinion is a good bit more impressive.

lol OF COURSE his name is Stig..

So how long can you hold a hit from a bong? I mean freedive is definitely cool n stuff but, a bong hits pretty hard IMO.

Question about diving. Why is it that when I try to dive, even just six feet, I experience an immense pain in one if my ears. Consequently I do not dive.

Any suggestions for surfers on breath holding techniques while getting thrashed around by waves?

So, there's a scene in the new James Bond flick, Skyfall, in which Bond and one of the villain's henchmen fall into icy water. While sinking, the henchman chokes Bond, then Bond escapes and chokes the henchman to death, then Bond starts to swim toward the surface only to realize that he can't tell where the hole they fell through is so he swims down to the sinking henchman and grabs the henchman's flare gun, then he fires the flare gun, waits for it to detonate, then swims to the surface.

So my question is: how ludicrously impossible is that?

so you're telling us that Nords and Argonians can interbreed?

On a scale of 1-10 how much do you think you're the shit? I don't mean in a bad way at all, just like pro football players or basketball players do. Like how cool is it to be the best diver out there?

Are you THE Stig?

You say ask you anything, but if you have a PhD in Medicine, then me asking you a question about Technical Engineering would be pointless because you either wouldn't know the answer or go on the internet to find it out. So in any case, would you consider your expertise in medicine be a helpful factor in the case of letting you be able to hold your breath for so long and be able to dive so deep? Or did you do a lot of practice to be able to go for that long and as deep over time?

why are you not dead?

Do you ever worry (or wish because of low oxygen use) that you will fall asleep while holding your breath in static apnea? I used to hold my breath while trying to fall asleep and one time fell asleep with while holding my breath (laying on my back just in case). I have always been worried I would do it when I am so relaxed in the pool and drown.

Not exactly related to trying to hold your breath, but I subconsciously hold my breath sometimes and only notice after maybe a small amount of time of having held it. I was also told I make funny noises in my sleep (not snoring) that I'm pretty sure is either a result of holding my breath, or letting it out very slowly. What the hell's goin' on here?

Not sure why I'm asking you but you seem to know what's up.

I wouldn't think holding your breath randomly would be a bad thing. It may cause dizziness if you try to stand up when you are holding your breath, but other than that shouldn't be a problem. I wouldn't mess with your subconscious breathing routine if you can. Just let it go naturally. If you "try" to correct it you may find yourself being aware of your breath all the time, and manually breathing all the time sucks, especially when trying to fall asleep.

Sleep noises = lungs + throat + mouth/nasal interactions. Too many factors to nail it down easily.

Random fun fact: in a way you can "stretch" your breath holding ability. When you are bored use a watch/stopwatch and hold your breath for 10, then 20, then 30 seconds. Get a few good relaxed breaths between the sets and eventually you can do sets above a minute long with only a small breath between no problem!

22 minutes?!? You cannot be serious!

Thanks for the compliment.

Not a good singer, but sure like to hold my breath! :-)

I wish Bono would try that instead of singing. Or talking for that matter.

I try to empty my mind, time disappears, resonate with the vibration of the deep.

I have absolutely no questions, but I would follow you anywhere with those credentials.

what is your resting heart rate?

what is your resting heart rate?

As a marksman, I can achieve this heart rate, too, through concentration and breath control.

Perhaps there's something that we can learn from each other with regards to our respective sports. :)

EDIT: 40bpm seems my limit. Hit 39 once, but 30bpm is beyond me at this point. Well done, sir.

As a marksman, I can achieve this heart rate, too, through concentration and breath control.

Perhaps there's something that we can learn from each other with regards to our respective sports. :)

EDIT: 40bpm seems my limit. Hit 39 once, but 30bpm is beyond me at this point. Well done, sir.

How close have you come to drowning? And did panic ever cause you to take a breath reflexively while under water?

How close have you come to drowning? And did panic ever cause you to take a breath reflexively while under water?

THIS of all things struck me as really fascinating.

How close have you come to drowning? And did panic ever cause you to take a breath reflexively while under water?

THIS of all things struck me as really fascinating.

THIS of all things struck me as really fascinating.

Do you ever do it at the local swimming pool to mess with the lifeguards?

Do you ever do it at the local swimming pool to mess with the lifeguards?

Yes...when I was young and stupid I did this. I also used to tell my classmates that I was "watching television" as I was laying on the bottom. However, NEVER do this in your local swimming pool because your lifeguard might not save you, and it is not his responsibility.

I come from a professional background of swimming, and have lost several friends from mistakes holding their breath alone. NEVER do any of this. A big mission of mine is to educate people around the world on these specific safety issues.

I have a book (Breatheology), where I talk a lot about safety, and first aid.

I actually am a qualified lifeguard, and if I'm on duty it is my responsibility. Perhaps the laws here are different though (I'm in the UK).

But yeah, it sounds cool, I've always been interested in this, will probably check out the book. Thanks for the reply!

What do you do with a PhD in medicine?

this shall be the principle on how I name my kids.

It's a double-edged sword—easy to find your accomplishments, but also easy to dig up dirt on you. The John Smiths of this world have safety in numbers.

EDIT (4/4/14): Spelling...man, I can't believe I had such an embarrassing spelling error here for so long.

By the way....maybe I should tell you I am a Biologist (Marine Biology/Neuro-Physiology)...always had a great interest in animals....since childhood...you can easily find some of my scientific papers online if interested....I am the only person in the world with the name Stig Severinsen - enjoy;)

Has this skill ever helped you beyond setting a world record, like being chased by assassins and hiding under water so they can't find you?

Yes actually! Great questions!

During the world cup in Hawaii in 2002, we celebrated on the beach with Dance and Alcohol. Guess this was not allowed, and the police showed up with bull horns, and tried to arrest us.

What did we do? Well...it's a no brainer...of course we all just jumped in the ocean, and I've rarely had more fun than waiting for the police yelling and commanding and finally giving up and going home...this was a great night!

I'm scared of parties too, it's okay bro.

obviously holding your breath for that long hasn't caused you any brain damage. can you explain how this is possible?

As a fellow freediver I was looking through the comments to see this. I have been in internet arguments about this and I finally have somewhere to direct people who don't believe me. Lots of props from Nisses FDK in Sweden!

Dude: I don't belive you! Prove it!
Me: Dude, it's on reddit. It's scientific fact.

Have ever genuinely thought, "I'm going to die now?"

If I steal this and use it as a pickup line, will you be mad?

Have ever genuinely thought, "I'm going to die now?"

If I steal this and use it as a pickup line, will you be mad?

Worth it, especially if you can play Take My Breath Away in the background.

Came to the AMA expecting dolphin life-save story, was not disappointed.

You don't have to do the 5 questions things if you're yourself doing an AMA, only if you're requesting an AMA. Anyway, could you answer the questions you put up? They are very good.

Hi - haha...good question;) This is my first time here at reddit (I am from Denmark/Europe) - Thought I had to make these five questions and put ehat get asked most often by people and reporters...which question do you want me to be specific about?

Well the second one is what I though of when I first saw this thread. What is your mindset like when you're holding your breath?

The last thing I need to be doing to keep my heart rate down is thinking of sharks.

Link for the lazy.

Other links mentioned by OP:

• Stig Severinsen's TEDx talk

• Clip with Stig Severinsen from Discovery Channel's Superhuman Showdown

• His Breathology website

You don't have to do the 5 questions things if you're yourself doing an AMA, only if you're requesting an AMA. Anyway, could you answer the questions you put up? They are very good.

Even when I don't follow the link, I will always upvote anyone who is willing to do the work for us lazy people.

Even if it wasn't a link, and someone just types "Link for the lazy" I'll still probably upvote it

As a man who clearly knows a thing about breathing, how the hell do I get rid of these hiccups I've had for the past 10 minutes?

I can confirm this. Another thing that works: drink a glass of water and then light yourself on fire.

As a man who clearly knows a thing about breathing, how the hell do I get rid of these hiccups I've had for the past 10 minutes?

Ironically, I got into reading your responses and totally forgot about them. Well played, Severinsen.

How does it feel to hold your breath for 22 minutes? Do you go into a state of altered consciousness? Does it feel longer than it actually is (meaning does time feel like it passes more slowly when holding your breath that long). How does that first breath of fresh air feel after 22 minutes?

How do you know when to stop? Was 22 minutes simply your limit and you could no longer overcome the signals it was sending you? How long did it seem like it had been?

How long does it take for your brain to get back to normal after going into "suspend" mode like that?

How does it feel to hold your breath for 22 minutes? Do you go into a state of altered consciousness? Does it feel longer than it actually is (meaning does time feel like it passes more slowly when holding your breath that long). How does that first breath of fresh air feel after 22 minutes?

Time is shorter for me than normal time, this is the key to these long breath holds. Since I am also quite naive, I constantly tell myself that of course I can do these dives :-).

I am not in "real time" when I do these dives, so YES I am in an "altered state of consciousness."

This is really interesting because we have so many different layers of consciousness. This is really one of my biggest journeys in my own "mind training."

This is also what I teach all of the Gold Medal Winning Olympian Athletes, and High Power CEO's...and they love this stuff because this is something that they aren't usually taught.

As you will see in the video when I break the breath hold record, I do not gasp for air after it is complete. In my opinion, you should be way beyond that point, and end the dive relaxed and with a BIG smile :-). That is my philosophy.

have you ever tried smoking? also, do you purposefully avoid smokers not to inhale 2nd hand smoke?

have you ever tried smoking? also, do you purposefully avoid smokers not to inhale 2nd hand smoke?

Do you hyperventilate before diving?

Do you hyperventilate before diving?

Yea, he was once blacked out in a pool full of sharks for 20 minutes and 10 seconds!

Whats the longest you've held you breath above water?

Why is above water so much more difficult?

I guess it's mainly to do with this:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mammalian_diving_reflex

What are your thoughts on David Blaine?

That's the second "Link for the lazy" that I see from you.

I like you.

What are your thoughts on David Blaine?

That's the second "Link for the lazy" that I see from you.

I like you.

That is amazing about your friends recovery. Cheers to the both of you.

Does it hurt much for you? If so, at what point? I ask because for example I can hold my breath for about 45 seconds (badass), but at about 30 its very uncomfortable! Is there a point where you have to fight with your body to stay down?

WHATS THE LIMIT

22:01 minutes

How do you know what the limit is? What stops you from going an extra 10 seconds from your initial resurface time? Or another 20? I assume that's how you increased your breath hold time in the first place?

Does it hurt much for you? If so, at what point? I ask because for example I can hold my breath for about 45 seconds (badass), but at about 30 its very uncomfortable! Is there a point where you have to fight with your body to stay down?

WHATS THE LIMIT

When I was a kid, I used to pride myself on being able to hold my breath for long periods of time. At fourteen, I swam the length of an Olympic pool, forwards and back, completely underwater. I also had thought of a trick I might be able to employ, though I never tried. I learned how to suck air into my stomach when I was little (it's actually very easy). Normally I'd just let it out in a big belch, but I thought that if I was trying to stay underwater for a long time, I might be able to burp up the air (a little at a time, of course, lest most of it escapes) and suck it into my lungs for added oxygen. I don't know if the oxygen would be corrupted by sitting in my stomach or not (I don't think so, though). Have you ever heard of anyone employing this method?

How is that humanely possible? How did you train for that and how long did it take for you to get 22minutes?

Edit: humanly* I made this comment when this thread had like 3commenst total and wanted to type it really fast and it was late and didnt bother to check it. But I'm lolling at the typo

Lastly, I meant to say how long did it take him to train to get to holding his breath underwater.

What is it like to start breathing again after 22 minutes? Do you have to take small, shallow breaths to adjust or do you just take a huge sudden gasp of air?

Are there any possible long term complications of doing what you do? Also, what career did you choose following your PhD in Medicine?

How is that humanely possible? How did you train for that and how long did it take for you to get 22minutes?

Edit: humanly* I made this comment when this thread had like 3commenst total and wanted to type it really fast and it was late and didnt bother to check it. But I'm lolling at the typo

Lastly, I meant to say how long did it take him to train to get to holding his breath underwater.

What is it like to start breathing again after 22 minutes? Do you have to take small, shallow breaths to adjust or do you just take a huge sudden gasp of air?

Watching the video I noticed they give you a lot of status updates. Can you actually hear/understand those underwater at that point?

There's nothing inhumane about it if he isn't being forced to do it.

Is it true that dating is hard for you because no one can take your breath away?

oooh you filthy, filthy man!

plot twist. his girlfriend is a dolphin.

Does Guinness have a world record for that?

I want to apply for longest underwater cunningulus.

I'd like to receive underwater blowjobs. Fuck Guinness.

I think you already have this one in the bag. Time for a prime time TV special!

Is it true that dating is hard for you because no one can take your breath away?

Ha ha...no my girlfriend loves that I can stay a long time under water under in the spa :-)

oooh you filthy, filthy man!

We're waiting....

That's hot as fuck.

Does Guinness have a world record for that?

I think you already have this one in the bag. Time for a prime time TV special!

1) Teach her your ways 2) Simulate space sex 3) ????? 4) Profit

What do you think have influenced your ability to do these extreme things more, your genes or external factors like your training?

What do you think have influenced your ability to do these extreme things more, your genes or external factors like your training?

There's another Stig that has gone his whole life without taking a breath.

Some people say that he can hold his breath longer than a shark and has a ph.d. in turtles. All we know is... He's called the Stig (Severinsen)

you should call the BBC and get on Topgear.

The Stig driving an amphibious car racing across some body of water vs Stig Severinsen free diving to the bottom and back up of the same body of water...

Some people say that he can hold his breath longer than a shark and has a ph.d. in turtles. All we know is... He's called the Stig (Severinsen)

you should call the BBC and get on Topgear.

I came for the Top Gear references.

Am not disappointed.

Have you considered playing a wind instrument?

Have you considered playing a wind instrument?

First of, props man! I remember seeing you in the Guinness book of records. I have an odd question: What does one have to do to deal with cold?

How bad is the shrinkage?

It just kinda... disappears.

Thank you. I have done viking swimming for many many years (In Denmark we swim in the cold water all year round). I have trained myself to acclimate to extreme cold, but also have adjusted my mind to shut off the signals from the body. This can be very dangerous if you push your body too far because of hypothermia.

First of, props man! I remember seeing you in the Guinness book of records. I have an odd question: What does one have to do to deal with cold?

Not a question, just wanted to say I'm a big fan!

Danmark elsker dig! :D

Not a question, just wanted to say I'm a big fan!

Danmark elsker dig! :D

Some say he has gills behind his ears to help him breathe underwater and that he has had sex with a mermaid more than twice......we call him 'The Stig'!

Some say he has gills behind his ears to help him breathe underwater and that he has had sex with a mermaid more than twice......we call him 'The Stig'!

Have your talents ever proved useful with a woman? What's the weirdest way your talent has ever brought you goodness?

Teach me your ways

Sexologist is a job I can see myself doing.

It's a hard job.

Have your talents ever proved useful with a woman? What's the weirdest way your talent has ever brought you goodness?

Teach me your ways

What do you think about while you're down there? Or are you just focused on your lungs not exploding the whole time?

What do you think about while you're down there? Or are you just focused on your lungs not exploding the whole time?

Which do you prefer, the English or French version of Big Blue?

I watched the English (abridged) version 3 times a week, every week of high school. I was 25 before I saw the full version, it's like a completely different (and even better) movie.

There is an English version? Why oh why

Dammit, I'm going to have to go and learn French now and re-watch it... Thanks a lot... ;)

Funny story, my dad almost named me after Enzo. To this day it is one of my favorite movies and I think about my dad every time I watch it (Caddy Shack and Slapshot are the others).

Which do you prefer, the English or French version of Big Blue?

Some say, that he can hold his breath for 22 minutes

And that he holds the world record for ice diving... In a speedo.

All I know is he's called The Stig!

Some say, that he can hold his breath for 22 minutes

And that he holds the world record for ice diving... In a speedo.

All I know is he's called The Stig!

Have you seen the episode of Stan Lee's SuperHumans where they interview and test a free diver?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdMuO86RwYw

They do a complex test and determine that he has figured out how to "switch" his metabolism into anerobic mode (IIRC). His oxygen usage while holding his breath (at rest) continued until he hit about 80% O2Sat and then it just STOPPED. He sat there using essentially zero oxygen for minutes.

Can you explain some of this?

Yet another casual, "Oh I have a world record in that too, but it's whatever."

Yet another casual, "Oh I have a world record in that too, but it's whatever."

So you can hold your breath through the movie scenes where the main character saves the day and spends about 5 minutes fighting creatures under water and then opens the hatch to save everyone.

So you can hold your breath through the movie scenes where the main character saves the day and spends about 5 minutes fighting creatures under water and then opens the hatch to save everyone.

How come you do the 22min breath-holding thing in water? Is it just so that people can be sure that you are not breathing?

I think I've read somewhere that when the body comes in contact with water it sort of adapts so that you can hold your breath longer, is that true?

I've been taught in basic CPR classes that the brain starts to suffer damage from just four minutes without oxygen. So I guess my question is the same as number three on your list. Would you care to elaborate on that?

If you hold your breath, it doesn't mean that all of your organs suddenly stop getting Oxygen. There is still a big supply of oxygen in your blood and in your lungs (especially if you breathe pure oxygen before). "Without oxygen" only happens when the blood flow is interrupted because of cardiac arrest or if you stop the blood supply to a certain organ by clamping or cutting the respective artery.

That is why in some countries CPR is taught with a heavy focus on the chest compressions without requiring the artificial respiration (aka mouth-to-mouth). For the untrained person it is much more important to keep the blood in circulation.

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I know I would freak out going that deep with the fear of not making it back up. What do you do to keep yourself centered? Thanks for doing this AMA

Can you comment on this: Mammalian diving reflex

As in, what does it feel like when it occurs? Also what do you think in your PhD opinion is the evolutionary reason for us having this ability?

Did you ever pass out holding your breath for an extended period of time?

Sometimes...mostly in the beginning of my training days. Now I know my body well, and have not passed that point for the last 10 years.

Did you ever pass out holding your breath for an extended period of time?

How do you handle the pressure going that deep, and how do you avoid getting the bends coming back up?

The bends is a result of breathing air under pressure (with SCUBA or other gear). Specifically, the nitrogen in the air dissolves in your blood, then forms bubbles when the pressure drops back to normal. No breathing == no bends.

Are you related to Guybrush Threepwood?

Are you single?

But really.

Not really selling him with that username.

For you Stig, I could be.

Have you ever considered making an appearance on Top Gear?

what's it like in a speedo?

I would love to hear about the psychological portion of this!

1. What kind of mental "readiness" do you try to attain before a dive? (how long out do you start training yourself)
2. What about when you're making the dive, what kinds of things do you try and concentrate on as you go deeper? What about as you ascend?
3. Whats your mental recovery like?

I mean this as a compliment but people like you make me realize I need to be doing A LOT more.

As someone who has battled mental demons throughout his entire life, I just want to say how amazed I am at the mental fortitude and endurance you've created. Let me know if / when you come to Boston for any talks, I'd love to hear more.

Thanks for the AMA!

What is a PhD in medicine? I thought medical degrees were MD/DO/MBBS.

Do you think you could hold your breath longer while fighting 100 duck-sized horses, or a single horse-sized duck?

Intet spørgsmål, Stig, men bare masser af respekt for din dedikation, iver og udholdenhed. Stolt dansker!

what is your resting heart rate? how low can it get when you're doing a breath hold?

Question for Redditors:

How many of you have held your breath as long as you can while reading these responses?

You know what would be funny, film yourself going to a public pool and just go underwater and do something...like juggling a ball or reading a book or whatever, and just stay there for like 10-15 minutes while people watch in both amazement and confusion!

How do you feel about the movie Le Grand Blue (Big Blue)? Thank you!

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Do you think you or anyone else will be able to beat your current record?

If so how long do you think a human can physically hold their breath?

What about the average person, who would have little training and perhaps not peak physical fitness?

What do you think about standing in front of the water for an ice dive? Have you ever gotten a bad feeling before a dive and decided not to do it?

What was it like when you first started out training for these kinds of feats? I read an article in the New Yorker a while back about free diving. I'm under the understanding that long before you actually "run out of air," your brain starts to freak out and tell you that you need to breathe, and that a big part of the training is learning how to deal with this psychology. I guess what I'm asking is: what were some hurdles or roadblocks for you when you started out?

236' under ice ... turtle dick must be pretty brutal under those conditions?

You must take huge bong rips.

Some Say he can hold his breath for 22 minutes, and some say he can dive in ice cold water for up to two hundred and thirty six feet.

...All we know is HES CALLED THE STIG!

What is your technique to avoid losing consciousness upon resurfacing as the ambient pressure decreases and the loss of compressive force leads to a drop in the pressure remaining in your lung (leading to decreased PO2)? Do you perform the Valsalva maneuver as you surface? Do you simply hope to get back up fast enough that you won't pass out? Have you ever passed out during resurfacing and/or required rescue? Thanks!

Is it worth it to try and compete with you? Or should I not hold my breath?

When you do the free dives how do you know when to turn around and come back up? Do you ever get scared as your coming back up that you won't have enough oxygen to make it?

Have you ever passed out while ice diving and do you always have some kind of safety divers to save you if something goes wrong?

Have you ever smoked?

Stig, is it true that you were raised by wolves, are illegal in 17 U.S. States, have adhesive tears, and are confused by staircases?

I can't hold my breath for more than 20 seconds. I feel like a bitch compared to you...

Any tips to help me improve?

Do you even lift?

Do your massive testicles actually act as a buoyancy aid, or an anchor?

Some say he can hold his breath for 22 Minutes and can freedive under ice up to 236 feet in a single breath, in a speedo!
ALL WE KNOW IS HE'S CALLED THE STIG!

1. Any real-world situations where your superpower has proven useful?? Any interesting pranks?

2. Have you signed your organ donor card? If so, do you think your superpower would then be transferred to the recipient?

I'm not sure if you answered this already but could you perhaps explain the science behind being able to hold your breathe for 22 minutes? I thought anything around 6 minutes and beyond and the brain suffers irreversible damage. This is also the first question I've ever asked in any AMA. You, sir, are interesting indeed.

What are some new feats you'd like to accomplish?

I have heard that one does not get sick when they can hold their breath for long periods of time. Do you have any comments on this?

Ok, so I'm looking at all these breath holding records... can you explain to me the difference in dynamic apnea and static apnea? which one did you do?

There are medical conditions that result in a weak diaphragm but would benefit from an exercise regimen. Since freedivers are powerlifters in that realm, any advice as to where to start - either for kids or adults?

In your deeper dives, what method do you use to equalize?

How did you become such a boss?

Is the meditative state you speak about going into something you developed naturally from holding your breath or something you conciously incorporated into your technique?

do you look at how much time you have left? Do you get bored/have something to do? what are the last few seconds like, have you ever passed out or come close?

How can someone like me learn to do things like this? Also, do you like guacamole?

What inspired you to start setting these world records, or even start training for them? why go for these records compared to any other record?

What inspired you to start setting these world records, or even start training for them? why go for these records compared to any other record?

As a recreational diver, what are ordinary things I can do topside to improve my breath? Its something I've never been fantastic at.

Saw you on Danish TV. Cool.

How intensive is/was the training for both of the records? BTW, grats on the records, I think they're amazing!! :D

Are you ... THE Stig?

Uhhh...why?

Is your real name aquaman and are you in fact from another planet. Also is water world your favorite movie

Some would consider this a "Super-Human" capability, You've obviously trained your body to do something incredible. What other super-human capabilities do you believe are possible?

How on Earth do you hold your breath that long without dying?

TopGear seems to think you are a really good driver

Guys, I've found The Stig.

As a well versed Scuba Diver, I would just like that I cannot imagine going down to 200 ft in a dry suit on a fall day, in scuba gear..... let alone free dive in a speedo under ice. Kudos to you sir.

What's something health related that you know but most people wouldn't think of?

His name is the stig... of course he has a world record for something badass like glacier diving.

Where can you learn more about diaphragm breathing?<<IGNORE EDIT: just read you have a book

NEW: do you come to america to do teachings/courses? (I live in Colorado, USA now. Originally dansker! ;))

What i am doing with my life?

Who gets a phd in medicine?

Is it true that you only know two facts about ducks, and both of them are wrong?

Why you be so BAMFy stig!?!?

Do you hold world record for the longest makeout session without breathing?

Do you think you have a talent for this or some sort of special ability or that given enough training, just about anyone could eventually hold their breath/free dive like you do?

Awesome! But using 99% oxygen on the breathe makes a huge diff. What is your record without using (almost) pure oxygen. Elevation plays a role as well, along with depth and pressure levels. You are amazing, but ur post is slightly misleading to all of us retards out here who don't understand the variables that have allowed such accomishment.

Will you be attempting various activities while holding your breath next?

Since you hold a PhD in medicine, is holding your breath for that long detrimental to your health?

Never mind how long you can hold your breath. Going 30 feet underwater starts to hurt my ears, how do you cope going that deep and coming back up. Also are you long enough underwater to get "the bends"?

[deleted]

How many years of training did it take to be able too absorb the air through your body to be able to hold your breath for that long?

Would you recommend starting this for any reason? Is it beneficial, or more of a hobby?

What can hold its breath longer...a duck sized horse or a horse sized duck?

Is hypnotism real?

Are you, by any chance, related to The Stig?

I bet your not even the real person.!

when you hold your breath for 22 minutes, what does it feel like? the longest i've been able to hold my breath for is like three minutes and my entire body was hurting and shaking. do you have any tricks for staying calm and using as little oxygen as possible?

how is your day going?

Is it true that your left nipple is the exact shape of the Nürburgring?

What does that first breath of air feel like after you come back up? Similarly, how does your body feel returning from this and are you "back to normal" within seconds?

Are you living in constant fear of kryptonite?

I have a few:

1. Are you one of Skynet's creations? You can send me a private message, I promise I won't tell anybody.

2. Don't you agree Flanders is a big jerk?

3. Will you adopt me? I'm 31 and have no obligations.

4. Do you get bored from watching episodes of The Six Million Dollar Man?

Why do you do this ?

So... you're the Stig!

Can you dive with him?

Human Planet BBC

Isn't breathing 100% oxygen beforehand cheating? That's an artificial breath of air. He has a PhD in Medicine and has scientist friends... what if you don't have access to a tank of oxygen, does that mean you can't break the record? Technically this should be a "privileged first-world record," instead of just a general "world record."

I think you broke David Blaine's record. Always thought he was a bit of a dick, but after seeing a documentary on him an I have a new found respect for him.

My 13 year old daughter, who is a diver, asks: Did you feel scared or excited after your dives?

I felt proud of two minutes before reading this too...

Any ways: How do you train for this? As a kid did you just enjoy holding your breathe for long periods of time? If yes, did that cause worry from your parents?

How long can you hold your breath - not in water? Just like sitting around the house?

Have you ever played underwater hockey? I think you'd be pro at it!

what's the difference between an M.D. and a PhD. in Medicine?

Tom Sietas held his breath for 22 minutes and 22 seconds. Looks like you'll have to do it again...

Stig huh? Are you that one guy off top gear?

So basically this guy is a win at life.

When did you first realize you were a fish?

some say..................

Does your immense breath-holding abilities come in handy while going down on women?

So who is this guy http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Sietas IT says his record is 22m22s? they even use the same picture on Yours and His wiki page

I can do around 6-7 minutes underwater but I have to close my eyes and concentrate on not expending energy. I can out snorkel everyone I know (long torso, 17 years comp swimmer, then h20 polo now bikes), but I can't fucking imagine how one gets to your level.

At any point in your life, were you like me, and only able to hold your breath for 30 seconds before feeling like you're going to die?

Have you ever swam competitively, cause being able to hold your breath for that long seems like a monstrous advantage.

Does the medical half of your brain get pissed off at the freediver side?

How do you train? Sometimes while I'm bored in class I watch the clock and hold my breath 1 minute on/off but I don't really know if I'm getting any better.

Do you have any tricks/tips/exercises, to improve the amount of time I can hold my breath? I have been recently into free diving but have not been able to hold my breath too long (2:16 minutes) Any help and I would be very thankful!

I walked on the moon.

I think that is really cool that you're in the Guinness Book of World Records. I used to buy them every year. My question is, is it easy (for lack of a better word) and calm when you hold your breath in the beginning? Like when you first hold your breath you don't need to breathe, but after a while it gets hard and you have to come up. Is it like that for the first few minutes for you? Or are you the same as everyone else and you just have a high tolerance for pain?

How big are your balls, because I figure that they must be rather large from all the manly and badass records and achievements you've accomplished.

Is it easier to hold your breath long periods of time in cold water or warm water?

What axiom do people say to you when they don't expect something to happen?

[deleted]

Do you have gills?

How safe is lung packing?

Why don't I ask you NOTHING?

Did Luc Besson's crew ever consult you when they filmed The Big Blue?

...... No one? I'm sorry Mr. Severinsen, but somebody has to do this.

Would you rather fight one horse-sized duck, or one-hundred duck-sized horses?

what are your thoughts on kevin costner? was he cheating in that one movie??

Will you be the next James Bond?

What is your favorite sub-reddit here on reddit?

Are you jelly of david blane?

What do you eat normally as meals?

some say he can hold his breathe for up to twenty two minutes, some say he mastered the art of Obtuses while swimming.

All we know is... He's called 'the' Stig!

Do you not normally drink beer, but when you do, you prefer Dos Equis?

If you could break another world record, anything you can come up with, what would it be ?

I scuba dive but my breathing is terrible. I use my Oxygen too fast. Can you provide advice on how to improve? I'm going back to Cancun next month and would like to improve. Thanks!

Do you ever talk to the stig from top gear?

Fellow freediver here, what is your record static apnea without breathing near pure oxygen beforehand? Also is there a difference in the training you do for oxygen enriched vs. regular air?

how did you grow gills?

[deleted]

He has the longest world record for holding his breath. And some say he's a merman. He is The Stig!

Edit: Not mermaid. Merman.

I have questions on what the science behind it is.
* What are the best temperature ranges. * Any depths or pressures that are the best for this kind of thing. * Any mental barriers that were hard to overcome.

Have you ever wished for the opportunity for when someone tells you 'Don't hold your breath' when you're asking them for something?

1) How do you train to get your body and mind ready for these extreme records?

Why do you like Dos Equis so much?

Been very interested in freediving since I was little, my friends and I used to always see who could retrieve bottles from the deepest. Though I've only ever made it 40~ feet down on one breathe, I love the idea.

Are there any breathing exercises an average person could do just while sitting, browsing reddit for example that could help improve how long they're able to hold their breath?

What's the craziest un-scientifically proven remedy for something that you just KNOW works that you yourself might do, but you can't really prescribe because it's not scientifically proven???

Every morning at 6:39 A.M., I clap my hands loudly, three times, to keep the flying elephants away. It works!

I'm late to the party, but do you play any instruments? I bet with that lung capacity you'd be a helluva tuba player.

How noticeable was it "down there" when you were in ice with a speedo on?

Do you use any performance enhancing drugs when attempting these records? What is allowed, and what isn't?

i know you get asked this alot but how do you hold your breath so long

currently living in a very polluted city and often feeling short of breath. + pre asthmatic. do you have any lung strengthening tips/suggestions.

Bonus question: Do oxygen bars make sense?

Thanks!

my respiratory physiology teacher would LOVE to have a chat with you!

how, the, fuck?

Does your PHD help you hold your breath?

In your experiences and studies, have you ever heard of liquid breathing and have you ever used it? This is where the oxygen of the lungs is completely replaced with an oxygen rich liquid. The person "breathes" this liquid as opposed to the normal gas.

so have you ever gone muff diving?

Stig's says he's being flooded. Come on guys...getting him swamped is sufficient enough....but flooded????

I know the questions keep coming Stig...do what you can to keep your head above water.

When you are free diving, how do you deal with the mental pressures?

The knowledge that you are alone in a dangerous situation with little to rely on.

The cryptic unknown of the deep closing in all around you.

The chance that at any moment you might be attacked by a kraken and dragged into the abyss.

Ive always wanted to become a freediver, and was wondering how you train, i can only dive 10m. Also im 15

Are you immune to other people's farts? Because, you know, you can hold your breath for so long.

could you have accomplished this without your degree in medicine?

How can someone like me go about training to hold their breath longer?

overly manly man and ron swanson could hold their breath 22.5 minutes.

Do you remember your longest time holding your breath when you were little? If you do, what was the time?

what kind of shrinkage do you get from the ice water?

I trained myself to be calm and comfortable during childbirth, and it worked. The course I used called the technique hypno-anesthesia, but it sounds so much like your description of how you visualize and get into mindset. Have you ever applied these techniques to controlling/altering the experience of pain?

How long did it take to master these very impressive skills?

Hey man, I meditate daily but I question the benefits it may or may not bring to my life.

What is your opinion on the act of meditating and how has it benefited/effected your own life as a productive/conscious being?

I've noticed I can hold my breath longer and I've noticed I'm more mindful and less awkward.

So you're a doctor, worldwide champion, and record holder..

DO YOU FLY?!

Are you a fish?

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[deleted]

Do you meditate to achieve your feat? If so, can you please describe to me the most insightful experience?

Would you rather fight 1 horse sized duck or 100 duck sized horses while 236 feet below freezing water

So hard not to make a topgear reference

well arent you just the shiniest sack of shit

Are you a human?

I am a 15 year old who is into freediving and spearfishing. My pr for apnea is 2:25 what are some tricks I can use to increase that. I also have trouble equalizing my left ear sometimes can you suggest some different equalizing techniques? And my last question, do you spearfish?

Do you let any air out during...?

have you ever held your breath during an underwater movie scene? Just to see whether you'd survive the occasion or not. (Although I bet you would)

So, this is kind of stupid question but how do you NOT die? I thought the brain could only go 3-5 minutes without oxygen, so what is the science behind this? I'm not doubting you, just wondering how it's possible.

are you out of your damn mind?

I'd imagine that holding your breath for that long takes a lot of training. How long do you think you could hold your breath with zero training?

You know Manny Puig? Pretty sure since your tooting your own horn that he was the first to do all that......

Are you the master chief?

Do you have webbed buttocks?

Are you any relation to trumpeter Doc Severinsen? He also has excellent bteath control, though in another context.

Ever consider becoming an astronaut or otherwise going into space?

How in the world did you hold your breath for 22 minutes without passing out?

So what is the secret to holding your breath for even three minutes? Can it be taught?

Sir im looking to increase my breath holding capabilities in anticipation of US Naval Dive school any exercises or tips?

Why? Why would you do this?

I don't really have a question, just wanted to add another "Your fucking cool!"

Thanks for the AMA, one of the best ones!

what kind of cigarettes do you smoke?

Is there a big difference in diving in warm and cold waters? What effect does this have on your times?

have you seen le grand bleu (the great blue in english, i believe)?thoughts? i think it's a beautiful movie.

when did you discover you could hold your breath for so long?

Have you ever lost consciousness when attempting to hold your breath for a long time?

have you ever been waiting for something unlikely to happen and someone said to you "don't hold your breath" and you just kinda give me a half smirk?

Stig do you think Marijuana is bad?

Hi Stig, I agree that it's difficult to find credible Gurus who teach both yoga and meditation (especially from India) - a lot of them are frauds.

• From your experience and dedications spent learning and practicing yoga and meditation, could you share with us on what forms (types) these were?

• If one has a desire, who are some of the more credible Gurus to learn from?

• What's your diet like? Non-vegetarian/Vegan/Vegetarian?

I need some serious advice. I'm a college student, majoring chemistry, and have been struggling with time management especially this quarter. English is my 2nd language, which is reason why it takes 1.5x longer for me to read anything than my american classmates. I feel overwhelmed all the time and that I always have so much to do for classes and not have enough time to do anything other than studying and sleeping. How did you manage to have time to study and to do everything else? I found it amazing that youve done these things that I don't think I can ever do.

Could you survive the underwater scene in Skyfall?

are you secretly THE STIG from topgear?

Stig, I find this appalling. Clearly you have great strength, focus, drive...so many qualities. Why do you apply these qualities to pointless goals. You could be doing something useful, something to benefit mankind. Sorry if I'm being blunt, but why the hell do you do these things? So what? This will only stimulate others to attempt such goals and die, and there's a good chance you will die or suffer serious injuries. Do something useful for your fame.

Maybe there's useful medical data that can be derived from holding your breath for 22 mins. Drowning maybe?

Jesus Christ, calm down... Did he kill you dog or something?

I don't have 22 mins to watch your video therefore this must be fake

He doesn't HAVE a PhD in Medicine; he's just holding one.

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Do you feel ashamed that your only talent in the world is holding your breath?

You realize with enough training the body can absorb the proper air through your pores to sustain the oxygen level not to damage your brain?

Let's see your PhD in medicine. Trick ass beeyotch.

How often do you practice for this feat? Do you feel stupid? Did you know the human brain cells start to die off after 6 minutes without oxygen? You must be pretty fucking stupid.

Hey Stig! Reddit legend marterfcgavin here. As we all know, /r/atheism is literally the worst thing on the planet. Why do you think it's so awful?

Your neurons need oxygen

When you munch box, do you come up for air? If you were holding your breath the whole time, which do you think would happen first: (1) you lose interest tongue-slappin' the taco, or (2) You have to take another breath. Personally I think I'd lose interest before I came up for air 22 minutes later...

Answer, for science!

Would you rather fight one horse sized duck or one hundred duck sized horses?

how the fuck is that possible???

Are you a dolphin?

Do you drive cars on top gear?

Proof?

Proof?

What licensing agency declared you a Certified Badass? Also, how do you acclimate yourself to colder conditions?

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how do you avoid brain damage? i've always been taught that the brain can't go without air for more than a few minutes

How much were you rooting for David Blaine to fail when he was holding his breath for 17 minutes?

Awesome, sir. It's good to have people who push the limits of the human body

You're an insane man. Ever get injured from pushing your body too far, or having your body fail to alert you that it can't handle it?

Who would be more likely to survive the zombie apocalypse, you or Bear Grylls?

Wow

Do you play video games?

Oh. Me and my dad just watched you on TV. My dad kept exclaiming "He's going to die!" Haha. You can hold your breath longer when still and not moving, are you able to hold your breath that long whilst free diving? I mean an estimate of the average length of time you can hold your breath during a free dive.

Can you explain what it feels like to be that far under water? when you are down that far, do you feel fear at all or is there acceptance in case something happens? Has anything ever gone wrong?

what has inspired you to tap into the power of your own mind like this?

I can hold my breath for two minutes without submersion/hyperventilation and am inordinately impressed with my own accomplishment. You're like a god, to me.

How long can you hold your breath without submersion? Can you describe how your conscious state feels when you do these dives?

What started your interest in free diving and holding your breath for so long?

What to do when you get the pain of sickness when water gets up your nose

So, do you practice medicine?

Seeing you have balls of steel the size of Lake Michigan, how do you surface?

Have you ever considered climbing a mountain? If so would your breathing abilities enable you to climb without a tank?

How did you know when you had to stop descending from the free dive and come up? It is obviously different than just holding your breath because you still have to travel all the way back up...

To hold your breath in league with the pro's and record holders.

How much is does good genes factor in vs training?

This is very interesting, thanks for the AMA. Obviously, holding your breath for that long is physically possible, since you've done it, but doesn't being deprived from oxygen for so long cause brain damage, especially when you do it repeatedly? Or is that just a wrong assumption?

I have seen a lot of programmes about freediving recently and I'd love to get into it. I am fascinated by how (relatively) normal people can train their minds to overcome nervous signals and be able to do the most incredible things!

My question is did you start breath holding because you found out you were exceptionally good at it or did you start because you were interested in finding out what your body could do? I ask because I would like to try but I don't necessarily have the skills.

When you are diving, what is usually going through your mind? Ive always wondered what the thought process is as you go down.

What is the closest you've ever come to dying?

Is your ability to hold your breathe for such long periods of time, under extreme stress, a result of mastering meditation?

My question to you is this:

What kind of breathing techniques could I practice to expand my lung capacity or depth of breathing? Do you recommend yogic techniques primarily or do you have your own adaptation?

Two questions: How long does it take to recover from holding your breath for that long? It must be tough on your body.

Also, what medical precautions do you take before a breath hold?

Did you plan on breaking records ever since you were young, or did this just sort of "happen"? Do you have other aspirations?

When I was swimming all the time I could swim 100 yards underwater with one breath. But, that was in a 25 meter pool. :)

Congratulations on all your life achievements!

What do you think about as you are holding your breath? Do your thoughts change as the time passes? Are there typical 5, 10, 15, and 20 minute thoughts?

I have a few questions:

1. Did you feel faint/sickly while holding your breath?

2. Did you "train" your lungs or do you naturally have good lungs?

3. You have a PhD in medicine. What type of medicine is it?

4. How are you so awesome?!?!

Wow, really interesting stuff.

1) What do you think of "entertainers" who claim can hold their breath for similar lengths of time?

2) I'm a diver and a third year undergrad majoring in genetics and evolutionary biology at a top tier university.I'm looking at grad school, but I feel like I'm at a point in my life where I can finally do some good in the field. How can I get started in marine biology?

3) Are you a robot?

Thank you Dr. Severinsen!

I am an undergrad student thinking of pursuing a masters or PhD, and as I get further in my studies I am learning that masters and PhD programs are extremely rigorous and require an insane amount of dedication. What advice would you have for someone like me, who wants to rise to that level of education but feels like he lacks the dedication or work ethic necessary?

For me, this is one of those extreme sports where the boundaries of the human body are pushed to the limits. Do you ever get annoyed that that an Olympic swimmer can take home six gold medals, and all you can compete for is an entry in the Guinness Book of Records?

Don't you think hyperventilating beforehand is cheating? Wouldn't it be more interesting to see who can hold their breath the longest without breathing in extra oxygen?

Do you think there would be a positive effects on life expectancy if someone were to train their body to constantly use less oxygen?

Do you think that it is possible to train the heart to stop beating for a while, as some Indian gurus claim to have done? If so, how do they train for it?

Didn't a girl just die from this?

Is it easier to hold your breath in cold water because less temperature means less oxygen consumption or is this only theoretical?

do you ever forget to breathe?

"My name is Stig"

Do you ever watch Top Gear?

/are you a tame F1 driver?

How long can you hold your breath without saturating your system with oxygen?

Do you have a much higher than normal % myoglobin in your muscles that helps you hold your breath for longer? Have you ever tested this?

Mr. Severinsen has a PhD in medicine, so i'm sure he knows what myoglobin is, but for those who don't: myoglobin is an oxygen binding molecule similar to hemoglobin that is found in high abundance in diving mammals like whales and dolphins.

Have you taken long term recorded measurements of your IQ, cognitive functions etc. to see if there's any change from the diving?

In the third video, you are diving into a giant upvote arrow. Real subtle Dr. Severinsen.

How much did cost you to give up your soul?

Do people call you Doctor Doctor Deep Dive?

Is there anything I can do to increase the amount of oxygen that my body absorbs? I ask this because I run out of breathe easily and oxygen absorption would help when hitting the gym.

What are the different stages of thought (or lack there of due to meditation) when you hold your breath. Like three minutes in do you think differently than ten minutes in?

THE STIG!

How is it humanly possible, to hold your breath for 22 minutes? This blows my mind.

Did Top Gear name their secret racing driver after you?

How are you still alive?

dude i saw you on tv for a show dealing with superhumans. didnt you break the record with your brother?

He lies folks! For I am tha real Stig!

What's the best joke you've heard about your ability?

Did you personally know Audrey Mestre and Pipin Ferreras? I read the book about the tragic accident of Audrey's death written from Pipins perspective and it really got me interested in free diving. Did you notice any ways that the accident effected you and your sport? Also how does it feel to have all of your internal organs shrink so insanely small when you're at extreme depths?

A champion, a Guiness world record holder, a PhD in medicine, your life must be complete :)

Years ago I set my personal record of 4 minutes (and a few seconds) for breath holding. I thought I was a circus freak. Cannot even understand how 22 minutes must feel.

what is the next thing that you are planning? When do you attempt to go for the record?

how long can you hold your breath with inhaling normal air?

Have you ever had an experience that brought you close to death while diving? If so, would you please offer an anecdote?

Some say he only breathes 70 times a day. All we know is he's called the Stig!

do you find yourself randomly not breathing? like subconsciously holding your breath?

How did you discover that you could hold your breath for such a long period of time? Intentionally or accidentally?

When you were under the ice, what did it look like? The color, the shape of the ice around you?

Do you meditate (ex : samatha, vipassana)? Do you have any special meditation techniques that help you hold your breath?

I honestly thought I was going to see someone inhale a breath of air and jump into a pool...did not deliver.

Do you ever stop and think about how awesome you are ?

I have a simple question: Are you a wizard?

How the hell can you even walk with such a massive pair of cold-resistant testes?

In all seriousness though, have you ever pulled or considered pulling practical jokes? You would be the king of the pool/beach. As the lifeguard, i would have a moment of panic, then irritation, then I would probably die of laughter once I realized you were fine.

What's your injury list?

What kind of stick do you use to push the ladies off you when you're in public?

Have you had any accidents before? Any close shaves?

Do you regulate your EPO production by injection? or do any elevation training to increase your O2 carrying capacity? Thanks!

so i guess Erotic asphyxiation dosent do much for you?

Are you always holding said PHD or do you sometimes put it down to hold other things? (Ex: Food, fish you happened to catch while diving, cups)

In a previous answer you said you can "override" your bodies reaction to breathe. So...

1.) Are you able to override your bodies instincts enough to pass out from lack of oxygen while not being in water? That is, sitting in a chair, for example.

2.) How long can you hold your breath spontaneously?

Do you ever lose focus and start to panic a little? Have you ever had to turn back half way through attempting a big dive?

I watched a special on the training marine recon divers go through to be comfortable in the water, and it blew my mind. Fifteen feet under ice seems nuts to me... 236 is just insane! I commend your mind and body control!

Cool AMA! Congrats on all of your records, as well as completing your PhD.

As someone with a PhD in medicine, how do you justify doing this crazy shit despite the obvious dangers involved?

aside from the GWR stuff, has your biology/anatomy been studied while you're in these various states (i.e. oxygen deprivation, cold water, etc)?

Have you ever thought about getting into breathplay porn? You would be unreal in a facesitting video, for instance.

My first thought reading your techniques is how do you seperate overriding your brain's survival instincts and actual brain damage via shortage/loss of oxygen?

Surely anyone can teach themselves to ignore their body's instinctual urges and CO2 build-up complexities, but at what point does your brain actually hit that final layer of, (excuse the analogy), "A car engine without oil". If it's running "dry" how long before the engine itself explodes or ceases to function/damaged?

Stig, big fan of yours, I trained under Carlos Coste in Venezuela and I've been following freediving ever since.

Here's a couple of questions for you:

1) What's your static record without O2? (AIDA Rules)

2) Are you planning to try and beat the current AIDA world record in any of the disciplines?

3) CWT PB?

4) How did you start freediving and when did you decide to go for pro/records?

If you're a hundred or so feet below the surface and decide that you really need a breath of air, can a scuba diver simply hand you their mask or would that cause your lungs to explode or something?

What part of Denmark are you from? What is your favorite thing about Denmark? Jeg elsker Danmark!

You should take up Blitzball.

Some say... he dives in ice-cold water wearing just his speedos.

How do you know at 22 minutes that it's no longer "mind over body" but "life over death", especially since you're in such a meditative state?

When you say that you actually "recondition your nervous system" and go into an altered consciousness, which in essence is overcoming your body's natural response, has this benefited you in other areas of your life when having "mind over body" may be beneficial? i.e. pain tolerance, possibly even dealing with emotions?

Damn. Does it hurt the female when you have sex with her from your massive balls banging against her? (Kudos. Really. I'd love to be able to claim just one of those feats.)

Do you blood dope or do anything like that to help you freedive?

I heared a rumour about you that you can control you temperature, is this true? and how do you train for holding your breath?

I am a new(ish) free-diver and am usually too busy to put too much time into practice. What should I focus my little practice time on? I usually hold my breath in intervals during class.

Thanks!

So if it's not falling to your death or drowning, what is it that you are afraid of?

I'm a synchronized swimmer and I spend a lot of time exerting myself underwater. I have troubles holding my breath and get really scared to perform long routines. I know it is all mental and that I have the ability to hold my breath for that amount of time, but it feels like I'm drowning and I get scared and it affects my performance. I don't want to stop competing because I otherwise love my sport. Do you have any advice to overcome the mental difficulties of not breathing? Or maybe any exercises to increase my lung capacity?

I saw you in a documentary where they tested you and some others seeing who us the "superhuman". Your skills are amazing! And I am just stoked to know who you are. Keep up the good work!

Is being the best at this enough to support a family without supplementing your income?

Some say, he can hold his breath for an AMAZING 22 minutes. Others say he can dive to 236 feet in a Speedo. raises brow All we know is that he's called...the Stig!

I've been practicing holding my breath for a while. The best I can do is 2 minutes :( I feel like this is an important survival skill. How did you start? What was your training like? Any tips?

How long can you hold your breath without first breathing pure oxygen?

Have you ever come close to drowning/thought you were going to drown? What did it feel like? How did you escape?

Is it true you have gills behind your ears like Kevin Costner in WaterWorld?

You said you have passed out during some of your record attempts. Can you share some stories about those incidents?

Considering the fact that, pretty much across the board, records get more and more impressive as time goes on, what do you think is the upper limit to how long a human could hold their breath?

Great AMA dude!

How do you know when to finish your dive? Do you hit like a point when you lungs hurt too much or you feel yourself passing out?

Amazing! Blow way by the videos! You are a true example that we human beings are amazing and a one of kind!

have you ever thought you weren't gonna make it back to the surface in time?

Does developing the ability to hold your breath that long have the same effect on your blood as living at altitude or using an altitude tent?

What got you into breath holding? Or whatever it's called.

My impression of competitive free diving and deep diving has been completely shaped by Luc Besson's film "Le Grand Bleu." How accurate a portrayal is that free/deep diving (minus the Rosanna Arquette love triangle)?

I think I remember seeing a safety stop setup with air tanks at various depths as a way to safely bail out if you get in trouble. Is that something that is put into practice at competitions? Also, is there any kind of research you participate in as a diver?

Is "The Big Blue" your favorite movie?

Really interesting AMA. Thank you for doing this.

Regards, a fellow dane.

I read an article about free diving some time ago (I think it was probably the New York Times Sunday Magazine) & it talked about the different zones in regards to buoyancy.

First zone (surface to whatever depth) = positive buoyancy. Even if you stopped swimming, with air in your lungs you would eventually float to the surface.

Second Zone = neutral buoyancy. If one stopped swimming, the tendency would be just to hang in stasis.

Thirds Zone = Negative Buoyancy. Sinking would feel like floating at this point.

After reading about this I began to have nightmares about getting turned around in dark waters - the concept sounds quite scary to me.

Sorry if I didn't describe it accurately, but if you have experience with a change in buoyancy, would you care to describe what that is like & have you ever gotten into trouble with being able to tell which direction is up or towards the surface?

You're the best in the world at something, you have one of the most highly recognised and accredited degrees available AND you have multiple world records!? i'm left wondering; what's on your bucket list?

I held my breath for three minutes once.

I was very proud. Now I'm not.

How do you feel now that you've crushed me?

So you have a doctorate in medicine, but you're not actually an MD?

Son of Poseidon!

(Forsæt det gode arbejde!)

Have you ever tried apnea walking?

HE'S CALLED THE STIG!!!!!

I have noticed several great sports figures with the name Stig, namely yourself, Stig Blomqvist, and that mysterious chap from Top Gear. I have also noticed a lack of useless people named Stig. So using this observation, I have to ask, if I name my child Stig, does that destine them for greatness?

Do you have giant balls?

Why?

PhD in medicine? thats awesome, are you a practicing physician? where did you go to medical school? Tell us a little bit about the science behind being able to hold your breath so long please.

Thanks

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Do you/ have you considered playing a brass instrument? Because I think a person with your breath capacity would excel.

Do you think is there a maximum length of time that a human body can reach without oxigen (and of course without dying)? I read that scientist calculated the the sortest time for the 100m run but is there a study for withholding breath?

I have great trouble holding my breath for more than roughly a minute. If you had to, how much longer would I be able to hold my breath if you trained me for one hour?

What is your resting heart rate? And what do you do to train?

Is it difficult to find speedos that can contain your enormous balls?

Do you receive any prize money for setting a world record? If so would you tell us?

Is it ok if I call you Mr. Doctor Professor Stig?

How did your massive balls not weigh you down when you dove under the ice?

Sorry to sound stupid but what are the main difference between a PhD in Medicine, a MD in Medicine, and like a PhD in Biochemistry

You should team up with Hoth the Ice man, then I can make you victory beer for whatever you do

When I was a Freshman in high school, I tried to hold my breath as long as I could when I was bored after taking my Spanish final. I held my breath for 3 whole minutes, it was awesome. I found out later that I forgot to flip the last page over and missed the entire written portion of the exam. I failed the fuckin shit out of that exam...... But 3 minutes? Pretty awesome for a laybreather.

You sound to me more like the most interesting man in the world.

As a singer, I have always wondered: is it lung capacity itself helping you do this, or is it will power? If it is lung capacity, then I need your secret. NOW! Please, if you wouldn't mind.

are you related to the stig on top gear?

How long can you hold your breath outside the water? Like, doing something normal such as sitting in a chair or lying down?

how bad was "the shrinkage"?

your are awesome. what is your motivation for doing this ? money, fame , or just for fun ?

How long can you hold your breathe without O2 saturation?

Has your background in medicine helped you with any of the stunts you've done?

Have you ever played blitzball?

How long can you hold you breathe if you werent trying to break any records?

How is your body capable of withstanding the pressure of water at that depth? Do you wear specialized suits for that purpose, is your body adapted or both? Can you fly on airplanes? Do you live at or near sea level?

Would/does It upset you when someone brakes your records or are you rooting for them when they try?

So what is it that makes you decide to come up? After 22 minutes its hard for me to imagine what the indicator might be

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It was interesting watching the video of your 20:10 record and hearing all the coaching and status updates they are giving you (especially since I'm Danish and could understand what they're saying).

• How much of this can you hear underwater?

• Do you pay attention to it when you're in the zone?

• Can you explain what happened in the last 10-20 seconds of the record? It seems a lot was going on and you're moving a lot.

• How did it feel taking the first breaths again after holding your breath for so long?

Could you potentially be the next Aquaman? O.o

What did you do your thesis on?

you sir are awesome, have an internet high five

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Why is there a record for diving under ice while wearing a specific brand of shorts? Has the whole world gone mad?

Are you a wizard?

Hi stig, I wish i could think of an awesome question for you but, alas Im not that sharp! Just a quick one to say i saw ur appearance on channel 4's (uk) daredevils series and you inspired me. Seeing your acheivements ( that under ice dive took my breath away i cant imagine what it did to you!!!) was awesome. Dont stop. X

Some say he can hold his breath for more than 20 minutes.

And that his last name sounds like silverfish.

All we know is, he's called the Stig!

Would you rather fight 1000 Duck sized horses or 1 Horse sized duck? Who would your abilities help you in the fight?

How easy is it for you to hold your breath while watching underwater scenes in movie? (i.e hold your breath while the protagonist is underwater take for example this potential casino royale spoiler)

Fantastic work, I'm rooting for you as a fellow Dane!

I saw your record attempt on Discovery Channel (I think) where you held your breath for 22 minutes. Your brother was there and mentioned as a doctor. He once said "keep your neck down" or something similar, why is that?

David Blaine held his breath for 17 minutes. He also levitates. So did he really hold his breath for that long, or was it just another trick?

I logged in to upvote your post primarily due to your ability to follow post guidelines, albeit somewhat erroneously in this case.

What do you think about this video? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQITWbAaDx0

is it lonely up there on your pedestal?

Where are your favorite places to free dive?

What are the health risks of doing this continuously?

What size suit do you wear?

Will you be my father?

Damn that's impressive!

in speedos? really?

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Damnit now no one will ever believe I AM THE STIG

What does it feel like to be hyperventilated with 100% oxygen, right before your dive?

How many breaths per minute do you take when at rest? Average is around 14-16, but I wouldn't be surprised if you were much lower. If you don't know try having someone secretly count when you're not thinking about it so you don't skew the results. Also, what is your resting pulse?

What is your stance on marijuana? Recreational or medicinal

How much of a difference does the temperature of the water make when trying to hold your breath in it? E.g. how long could you hold it in 5C vs 30C?

Also, how much of a different does the hyperventilating of oxygen make? How long could you hold your breath in the same conditions without doing this?

What are your plans for the future?

Are you the stig on top gear?

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As a biomedical major it is absolutely fascinating that you were able to live without oxygen in your cellular respiration for 20 some minutes. That's incredible :)

are you by any chance also the Stig from Top Gear

What do you use as your motivation fuel?

Weren't you on Tosh.0?

My question is; knock it off. I get it, you are better than me. You are making me look like a fat lazy slob who can't do shit with my life.

What role do you think having a unique, cool sounding played in your accomplishments?

Do you do any spearfishing, or are you purely a freediver?

Weird question, but how badly did it hurt your balls to swim under the ice like that? I'm a woman, but oh God I can't imagine.

Any advice for the common man with no underwater training on how to stay longer underwater?

I just wanted to say, i love your work on Top Gear.

As a swimmer, scuba diver I have always been interested in working on my lung capacity. Do you also do any scuba diving? Also what tips do you have for someone trying to increase their lung capacity?

What can you say about meditation? Surely it's about breathing but what you do requires intense concentration as well. Do you meditate regularly?

How does it feel to be able to hold your breath 220% longer than Guybrush Threepwood.

So do you eventually plan on never breathing again?

Just kidding. In all seriousness, how long do you think you'll be able to hold your breath? Do you have a goal, like 40 minutes (if that's possible)?

Stig, do you think a concave chest would have a significant impact on your ability to hold your breath? Do you know if it impacts anything significantly? Thanks, great AMA, ted talk was awesome too!

So if someone tried to suffocate you, they'd get pretty frustrated? What's your theme-song?

...Aquaman...?

Har egentligt intet spørgsmål, vil bare gerne sige jeg er stolt af det endelig er en dansker, bag en af de store AMAs. Tror engang jeg så dig dykke i Aalborg Zoo til åbningen af deres isbjørne anlæg, du har et imponerende talent!

I've always loved holding my breath, in my late teenage years I could hold my breath for 6+ minutes, actually just tried out how long I could do it now (I haven't held my breath for a decent length in probably 5+ years) and held it for 3 1/2 minutes. I guess what I am leading up to is how long can you hold your breath for with out using 02? Does it really add that much time?

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Big balls no doubt

Some say he once held his breath for 22 minutes. All we know is he's called Stig!

Do you even lift?

I almost died, eating and watching those videos. I kept holding my breath!

Where are you most ticklish?

Some say that he has earned his phd, and that he can hold his breath for 22 minutes. All we know is he's call "The Stig."

I wish I was good at things.

Have you ever had an out of body experience while holding your breath so long?

How did you get your giant balls into the speedo?

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I'm sure if Stig's line of future generation keeps at what he did, they could evolve back into fishes.

Do your giant balls get in the way when you sit down?

1) Do you know Jana Strain?

2) How incredibly hawt is she in real life?

What is your resting heart rate?

Stig in the real world... dun dun dunnnn.

Is there a record for longest breath held involuntarily?

DANMARK!

how hard is it to be fucking awesome?

I like to freedive, but am not that good. This is a cool AMA and a great opportunity to find out more.

I'm curious about your diet.

• Are you on a special diet or do you calorie restrict?

• Do you abstain from alcohol?

• Have you ever heard the 'raw beet juice greatly increases oxygen absorption in the blood' claim?

Thank you!

When I was a kid I would try to hold my breath while going through a tunnel... I have a challenge for you

Does it hurt when you don't breathe for that long?

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CO2/O2 tables... are they worth it? Do you still use them? If so, it must take an awfully long amount of time...

They say he can hold his breath for 22 minutes, others say he enjoys a dive in a speedo, but we call him...THE STIG

Are you the stig?

Did you go for medicine because of your breath holding abilities or is it unrelated?

Ph.D in medicine is so awesome . Dr.dr.severinsen ,best of luck for your future

You must have a high stamina, have you ever ran a marathon before?

On a scale of 1 to apple, how much drain bramage have you suffered due to oxygen deprivation?

How long can you hold your breath without supersaturating yourself with pure oxygen beforehand? As if you were just at the pool testing yourself?

Were you the guy who was holding his breath for the WORLDS MOST INTERESTING PARTY with Andrew WK a few years ago? We went to the Los Angeles show and were super impressed with that stunt.

If so, is Andrew WK the most hardcore person ever or does he turn off when there's no fans around?

Did you ever try to use any of that as a pickup line? Hey baby I know female anatomy in detail and I can hold my breath for 22 minutes :)

Some schools of thought believe that underwater breath-holding can increase intelligence (http://www.swimmersdaily.com/2012/02/03/underwater-breath-holding-improves-your-intelligence/) - what are your thoughts on this? I see you have a PhD in Medicine :D Have you noticed any cognitive benefits from doing this?

Has anyone ever told you that you look like Anders from Workaholics?

I read the other day an article about Will Kvist and it went through about some of your work with him. Do you think you have fully explored your techniques in the football context? What do you imagine the effects would be if those techiniques are applied to the likes of Messi or Ronaldo?

Is it hard to walk with your GIGANTIC balls?

is it possible to eat food underwater while holding your breath?

How low can you bring down your heart rate to? Is is true that free divers like yourself can bring your heart rate down very very low? Like 20 bpm or so?

22 minutes... I can only hold my breath for about 35 to 40 seconds. Am I exceptionally bad at this, or you can really get 40 times better with training?

Whatever happened to that married couple where the wife went for like a 300' dive and didn't make it back up? Have you ever met them?

How do you feel about that Baumgartner guy?

On a scale of 1 to bat shit crazy, where do you rank yourself?

You're the hottest doctor I've ever seen in a speedo

Stig, What do you eat?

Where do you find pants big enough to house your massive titanium balls?

When people say "hey don't hold your breath," do you say "fuck you, that's what I do?"

Would you rather freedive with 100 duck-sized horses, or 1 horse-sized duck?

Have you ever smoked in your life?

You mentioned that Guinness allows you to ventilate on oxygen before a record attempt. Can you elaborate on this? Are all the world records accomplished by fueling the body with some kind of hyper-oxygenated air prior to holding your breath? What length of time could you expect to hold your breath if you merely prepared by breathing from the normal atmosphere?

Why are you trying to make the rest of us look bad?

I just think your title on the frontpage is pretty rad.. no further questions. thank you sir.

When i try to hold my breath for a while, it starts to hurt after like 20 seconds...when do you get this feeling if at all?

Have you ever heard of or tried underwater hockey? You would be amazing!

You must get some really bad back pain having to carry around those massive balls, no?

How do you handle the headache? At least, when I hold my breathe and sit still, I can only go for 2 mins at most but I end up with a slight sore brain feeling, which kinda scares me so I haven't done it ever since.

Do you hold your breath when people in movies go underwater?

So thats why the Stig gets such good track times... he refuses to breath until he crosses the finish line

We're you bitten by a radioactive whale?

1. How many meters can you swim underwater?

2. What do you think of movies where people have to swim for a couple of minutes underwater to save themselves from sinking ships/aliens? This made me think of the scene from Alien Resurrection when they swim A VERY LONG DISTANCE holding heavy guns and aliens behind them.

Which one of these accomplishes means the most to you personally?

22 minutes. 22 minutes. You could watch a sitcom episode without taking a breath. That's some perpective.

Would you have competitions with friends with you were younger just to blow their mind?

I'm hungry, should I go to mcdonalds or burger king?

Stig, I'm an admirer of people who are able to do this and you're a Ph.D. to boot [which makes it all the more awesome].

Now, and be honest, has this ability of being able to hold your breath at great depths, by itself, helped to get you laid or do women just come easy to you?

Please may you provide proof of who you say you are either in the comments or through a message to the mods. Thank you.

A doctor that holds numerous world records? Thanks for making me feel inadequate.

I will eat a brick of cheddar cheese and drink some apple juice, Then I will break you. -Bane

How much do you love The Big Blue (1988)?

Do you ever walk around in your speedo shouting "I am ENZO!"?

Fuck you, I can hold my breath for like 73 seconds!

Oh wait, you said minutes, yikes! If I held my breath for 22 minutes I would be, let us just say, not living any longer!

What was the biggest mental obstacle you've had to overcome over the years of training? Thanks!

How long could you hold your breath if you hadn't prepped/trained? Like if you just tripped and fell into a pool (and couldn't swim), but managed to get a quick gasp of air before going under, how long could you stay under?

Does the shrinkage still bother you or are you used to it by now?

1) Does your wife make you good sandwiches?

2) How long can you go down on her for?

3) Am I asking stupid questions?

---

But seriously... I have friends with Ashtma and my own lungs are a bit broke from smoking (I quit 7yrs ago)... Are there any exercises to improve Oxygen intake? (I talk so much crap I am worried it is lack of Oxygen to my brain... like no .... no .... don't laugh .... i'm fucking serious here).

TL:DR I need more Oxygen to my brain ... help!

How large is your penis?

How long are you able to go down on a woman for?

Dude.. teach me..

I would love to see a video of you singing.

How do you feel waking up in the morning and being that awesome?

How did you train yourself to be able to hold your breath for such a long period of time?

What's your body fat percentage?

What is your testing heart rate

Will Newport ever get a Debenhams?

How do you type that title and not feel like you're bragging?

Do you have to get custom made speedos to hold your enormous balls?

Amazing feats.

Just wondering, how long can you hold your breath without breathing pure O2 first? Tom Sietas holds the record at 9 minutes 8 seconds. How much does the O2 help I can hold my breath for about 3 minutes. What kind of increase would I get if I used O2 first?

You are a freak, amazing what you can do with your body. Actually watched a superhuman show while I was flying home on the weekend where you were declared the winner. 22 mins underwater, amazing.

Are you actually Aquaman?

I just held my breath for 23 minutes while I was reading this....unofficial or not, you have to admit defeat! TAKE THAT!!!

What are your views on the Baltic Sea anomaly? As in, what do you think it is?

What are your thoughts on the use of Cordyceps to improve lung efficiency? Do you use any similar natural herbs or supplements?

I can swim 75 meters with one breath in a 25 meter pool. What is different about doing that underwater?

So you think your better than me?!? New Jersey accent

i had the record in my class i held my breath for 3 minutes when i was around 12-13, have you always been this good? and what do you think when your under the water?

So you have to wear speedos to try and break the record for longest freedive under ice on a single breath of air?

Where do you mostly train? Have you ever suffered shallow water blackout? What are the best training methods for breath hold diving? I am from the west coast of BC Canada and do dive and have limited experience in free diving.

Some say he can hold his breath for 22 minutes other say he can freedive under ice in only a speedo all we know is he's called the stig!

Can you walk me through what happens when you come back to the surface? Do you take one long breath or quick small breaths? what happens to your body after it comes back from its Oxygen starvation?

Edit: grammar.

Ever seen a grown man naked? Ever been in a Turkish prison?

Shower: cold or warm?

Has dos Equis called you yet about doing commercials? Most interesting man in the world...

Do you wake up in the morning and piss excellence?

once again we have a fascinating topic to discuss yet all the top comments are stupid jokes.

Do you have to use specially made speedos in order to cart around your incredibly huge balls?

I play saxophone, and I actually think having this kind of lung capacity would be a fantastic thing for me. How would one train for this? I'm asking specifics here, like how long to run etc.

Do you have any hearing problems yourself, or have you ever had an infection because of what you do? Is there anything you do to help your ears when diving deep, so that the pressure doesn't hurt your ears?

Ahh I remember the documentary you did a few years ago where you tried to beat the world record in diving deep without oxygen help. You fainted when you came up from the water. That shit was intense man.

did you get the PhD before or after you held your breath for 22 minutes? if after, i'm impressed.

How do you put your pants on sir?

I watched your ice dive, and you didn't seem too winded/out of breath when you came up. Do you think you could go further, or are you in a lot more tired then you let on in the video?

Stig, I can not stay under water longer than 22 seconds.

I am pretty good at most things in life, I can move fast and think fast, but staying underwater is the one thing In life I am terrible at! This summer I tried to train, but I still freak out and have to come up to breath.

proof. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvJvMT7ZxFc

I am very jealous that you can do it.

how far can you swim while holding your breath?

do you do any spearfishing? you should

One question: How do you do it? Two question: Does having a PhD in medicine help? and how? Third question: How? how how?

My only question when i see posts like this.

Why are you on HERE?

When does holding your breath start to get hard? Most people that hold their breath start to get exhausted around 40 seconds, and only can push for 20 seconds longer.

The ladies must love you...

Are you a wizard

Hey I heard about you, keep representing our country and make us look good! =)

You held your breath for 22 minutes? Don't you get brain damage if you have no oxygen to your brain in like 4 minutes? Maybe you could explain your technique and/or biology that allows you to do this and be ok.

As someone who does these types of things without gimmicky tricks, what do you think of David Blaine? Also, I just wanted to say I liked your Columbia commercials that ran a while back.

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Is Trubridge your mate or are you bitter rivals ? :)

You don't smoke, do you?

How did you handle your first blackout? Do you know when you are so close to your limit that you might pass out?

I ask this because I'm a scuba diver, and I have had a pool blackout during apnea training, and ever since I've been reluctant to suppress the urge to breathe when doing apnea exercises. I really didn't see the blackout coming, so I'm wondering if you recognize the signs better the second time :)

QUICK NOTE: His record for holding his breath is AFTER breathing pure oxygen before hand. This allows you to hold your breath roughly twice as long as normal. This does not detract form this record or the others that he has held. The record for breath hold without oxygen before hand is somewhere around 10 minutes I believe. THE GUY DOING THE AMA IS THE REAL DEAL THOUGH, his abilities are really impressive.

Side note: At one point in my life I could hold my breath for 4:30 minutes and was roughly 25 meters away from being able to break the US record for furthest distance under water traveled (dynamic apnea). I could get almost 150m and the record was about 175m.

Can you explain medically how you are able to hold your breath for such a long time?

How do you not die of oxygen deprivation to the brain? Surly you must incur some type of brain damage? I'd love to know more about the science behind what you do.

David Blane is crying somewhere

Do you experience the same "pain" as we mortals do while holding your breath? And what drove you to practicing this skill?

What would you be your number 1 advice if I tell you that I want to hold my breath longer?

Hej Stig. I'm a half-Danish American. Just wanted to say its really cool to read about a Dane holding all of these cool records.

Are you planning on breaking any of your own records soon?

Do you play underwater hockey? Is it too easy for you?

How do you manage to sit down with balls that big?

Might have been answered, but in one of your comments you mentioned your record for holding your breath above water is only 8 minutes. What is the difference between holding your breath under water compared to above?

Great AMA by the way!

correct me if i'm wrong, but don't you get permanent brain damage (whether it be minor or major) when deprived of oxygen for more than 6 minutes?

Might seem a bit off topic, but why a PhD and not an MDD?

How long can you hold your breath without hyperventilating on Oxygen prior to the attempt?

how many packs do you smoke a day to keep your lung strength up?

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Whoa ! It's such a suprise that Mr.Severinsen is doing an AMA !

I've been lucky enough to meet Enzo Maiorca in the early 00's ! This marvellous man inspired me into doing freediving and apnea (I've been scuba-diving but discovering the marine life with a freedive is just beautiful.

1) What do you think of Enzo Maiorca, as he is one of the founders of this discipline ? 2) What inspired/motivated you into doing Freediving ?

I really really hope that you could answer these 2 questions for me ! It would be an honor !

Take care, keep breaking records and inspiring people !!

oh shit, you're danish.

You ever pee while you're down there? Then just have to basically sit in that warm pool of urine till it drifts away?

You can hold your breath longer than Guybrush Threepwood. How does this make you feel?

Does your medical knowledge in any way shape your breath holding techniques?

Was that entire "breath hold" video reproduced? Your brother's excitement was pretty passive, and I'm guessing you wouldn't calmly lift your head and exhale slowly after holding your breath for that long.

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You don't realize the brain damage holding your breath that long causes?

Dane here, was it you I saw in TV a while ago, who made a deep-ass dive, actually made it, and then passed out just as you came to the surface, which made you loose the record?

If so, that's too bad, I was hoping you'd make it. Have you done it afterwards without passing out?

Thanks for the AMA. This single AMA has solved many problems in my life :)

Have you ever smoked weed? I've noticed I can hold my brea... I mean I don't smoke weed.

Would blood doping help you hold your breathe and is that permissible for the guinnes book of world records? Do they test? could you get around that test seeing as how you have a PhD in medicine? How is breathing oxygen beforehand that different? Tell me why I shouldn't blood dope to beat you and why I have no chance anyways.

What were you thinking about while holding your breath for 22 minutes?

How did it feel like winning Discovery's Superhuman Showdown? I watched you on there a couple of weeks ago and it was incredible to see. Also, do you feel you would be able to do what you do without the support of your brother?

Why did you do the dive under Ice and why did you do the 22min under water at such a low temperature? Does it make holding your breath easier?

Do you feel like a cheater for using pure oxygen?

How does it feel like being so distinct from billions of other human beings in a skill/ability like that?

Do you feel superior in anyway?

Are you religious?

How was it working with Columbia to make their commercials?

Serious question: do you have a gag reflex?

As of May 30 - 4 weeks after Stig Severinsen's record - Tom Sietas held his breath for 22m 22s and is now the GWR holder for Static Apnea with pure oxygen.

Just have to say that you are a bad ass, sir.

dude why the heck did you wear that kind of wet suit.

Some say...

Can you arrange for me to meet professor X ? And how can I get to/visit the mutant academy??

[No question][No question]

Why do you have a PhD in medicine and not an MD? Or is this some weird international academic difference ... ?

What do you think about taking daily vitamins? btw, how the FUCK do you hold your breath for 22 minutes?

Thanks :]

They say that he can hold his breath for over twenty minutes, and that he watches the tele while he does it. All we know, is he's called "The Stig".

What do you think about David Blaine's work on this type of thing?

I always wanted to try free diving. How should I best prepare myself to avoid any serious mishap? I don't plan on going for records or anything like that, rather just the experience. I am a former competitive swimmer if that matters.

Did you do an IMAX film? I remember seeing one where there discussion between the differences between free diving and weight assisted diving...

What was your motivation to do the things you have done?

Has David Blaine ever contacted you?

You know, cause you've done the one thing he wasn't able to achieve?

So you've talked about the physiological and mental responses for holding your breathe for a long time underwater. How has your mastery of this ability affected you physiologically when not holding your breath? Underwater you focus on lowering your metabolism to decrease oxygen usage. When you're actually exercising, does it have any consequences? Are you more capable of aerobic activity? Are you more efficient? A lot of high level athletes see changes in resting heart rate etc. There is obviously a hard line to draw since it sounds like you've also maintained yourself in great shape as part of this adventure of yours.

How do I beat you?

"the most interesting man in the world"

Hej Stig, fedt at se du får mere af den anerkendelse du fortjener, du repræsentere Danmark rigtig godt. Er spændt på at se hvad du kan diske op med i fremtiden, jeg følger dig i hvert fald. God vind herfra.

Now to the questions, how often do you try to improve your records? And is it the same kind of training your do for each individual record?

I can recall you once held a record on 7 minutes or so, so when I heard you all of a sudden was capable of holding your breath for 22 minutes, my jaw literally dropped. Way to go fellow viking!

Hey Stig, a fellow Dane here. Just wanted to bump in and say, that you are one of the people, that makes me proud being Danish!

Pardon my ignorance, Is there a difference between having a Phd in Medicine and an MD?

Go denmark!

Kæft hvor er du sej! :D

How do you feel that these accomplishments better society as a whole?

How many penises do you have?

Can you recommend a resource for training methods and techniques?

HAVE YOU EVER Injected Oxygen Into Your Bloodstream ?

Aint the record for holding breath 26 mins or so? Think i saw a documentary about super humans ... And that was a danish dude so ... Var det deg? Har du vært med i en dokumentar?

Were you the same guy who trained Criss Angel how to hold his breath in ice? Yknow back when he had that weird mini-series..

It's The STIG!

Just wondering, do you practice medicine? I never knew you could get a PhD in medicine. Just thought it was only MD lol

Hej Stig :)

Nogle gode steder at fridykke i DK?; Spørger manden der ikke engang kan svømme :S

obligatoryCommentInOPsLanguage

Why not an MD?

Hey Stig! As a fellow Dane, I remember seing the televison show as a kid, about your atempt to break the world record for deepest dive ( or something ) And was devasted when you returned from the deep and did'nt get the record becuase you fainted shortly after. (The picture of that has haunted me ever since) Anyways, do you consider that a failure - and where you dissapointed? Afterall, you did complete the dive. :)

Does it feel good that you make David Blaine angry?

Very interesting AMA. I've been fascinated with holding my breath for longer periods of time having grown up with a pool in the backyard, but I've never made it past around the 3:30 mark. :(

• You hypersaturate your blood with oxygen right before holding your breath. How long can you hold your breath without doing this?

• I believe the main reason we feel an urge to breath when holding our breath is because of CO2 buildup, correct? Does hypersaturation of your blood with oxygen delay this?

• When holding your breath without using pure oxygen, do you hyperventilate instead?

Thanks!

did u use (these)(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Respirocyte)

Hey man, im 15 years old and ive got a question, every day while iam at my local swimming pool, i try to hold my breath, my current record is 2 mins and 30 seconds, I don't undestand how you can push your limits so far, any recommendations?

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Do you consider free-diving to be a 'safe sport'?

Have you ever lost consciousness?

Have you had any experiences with free-diving that made you re-think your choice in sports?

An article on free-diving: "Open Your Mouth and You're Dead." http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/water-activities/open-your-mouth-and-youre-dead.html?page=all

Is there a scientific difference between holding your breathe under water vs out of water? I can hold my breathe for almost 3 minutes out of water, but underwater I cant even make it to 2. Is this just a mental thing that is holding me back?

What is your Resting Heart Rate?

What is your HR while attempting a record?

Doesn't the lack of oxygen harm your brain?

Hey Stig, I am a big fan, think you are pretty darn amazing and proof the human body is a wonderful piece of machinery! My question is how did your skill affect you in life other than the record winning? Has it ever got you out of trouble or into trouble? How do people react to it? And my other question is, what happens under the water? Do you think about things, if so what is it you think about? Is it like meditating or is there any panic? From the outside you look very peaceful but is it the same story underwater?

You're clearly an outgoing man who has lived life mostly outdoors. What the hell are you doing on reddit?

I'm very excited to see this iama! I'm going to the pool today and will have a friend there for safety.

What is one specialty technique you suggest I try to improve my record? Record is 75m completely underwater w/o fins. My ritual is: -swim 50m slow breathing every 5th stroke -sit against wall and slow heart rate -swim one 25m underwater and rest -breath slowly and deeply for 2 mins -exhale every last bit of air, then inhale and hold deeply for 10 secs -few quick deep breaths then go.

any critques? It's a lot to ask, but living in Montana I've never met anybody that knows this kinda stuff so I'd really appreciate it.

How's it feel to be Aquaman?

I don't have a question. I just want to point out that that list of accomplishments sounds like something Jeremy Clarkson would say about The Stig on Top Gear. And your name is Stig.

It amuses me.

Do you happen to have a brother who is a professional driver and stars on a BBC TV series?

Ohhhh, so you're 'The Stig'

On a scale of 1 to questionable ultrasound shadow, how severe was the shrinkage after your ice dive and how long did it last?

Isn't it dangerous to hold your breath on pure oxygen like that, then breathing regular air, full of nitrogen? I mean, you have a massive intake of nitrogen after 22 minutes, does it do something?

Also : does regular air has a smell after holding your breath for so long?

I like how you threw that PhD in the title to ward of bullshitters

Is holding your breath underwater really that much easier (due to the mammalian dive reflex)? How long can you manage on land?

Do you feel like David Blaine is your archnemisis?

You are one of the people in the world that makes me proud to be from Denmark! :D

Your name is not Stig. Your name is the God Damn Aquaman!

No question. You are a god among men.

It's said that he can hold his breath for over twenty minutes AND that he has the world record for freediving under ice..... while in Speedos....Ladies and gentleman, THE STIG.

how many times has that joke been made?

if someone stopped you randomly on the street and gave you two seconds to prepare - How long could you hold your breath for?

I though David Blaine held his breath for longer?

Have you ever smoked pot?

I read the article about you and the community of breath-holders in Outside magazine! Were you the guy who lost his rope but made it back anyway or was that someone else?

What other traumatic experiences have you been through?

How do you sleep at night knowing you are bullshiting people?

I bet you are a hit with the ladies if you can hold your breath for 22 mins!

Do you attribute your abilities to any unique metabolic abnormalities --i.e. does your body lack the capability to sense rising disolved CO2 levels or do you have an abnormal hemoglobin that stores more oxygen than other individuals?

[No question]This interview was transcribed from an "ask me anything" question and answer session with Stig Severinsen conducted on Reddit on 2012-11-12. The Reddit AMA can be found here.