Methods to improve performance models of static apnea under controlled conditions

This doctoral research investigates how nutrition, body composition, and training influence oxygen and carbon dioxide regulation and overall performance in elite static apnea divers. The central hypothesis proposes that personalized nutrition strategies and an optimal body composition enhance oxygen efficiency, reduce the risk of hypoxia, and improve performance capacity.

Furthermore, one of the studies within the thesis introduces ApneSearch — an innovative device designed to simulate normobaric hypoxia through facial immersion. ApneSearch aims to provide a realistic, ergonomic, and safe platform for research, training, and education in the field of controlled apnea.

This is a PhD project:

PhD student: Jordi Sarola Gassiot, PhD Program in Physical Activity, Sports and Sport at the Universitat de Barcelona in collaboration with the Institut Nacional d’Educación Física de Catalunya (INEFC).

Supervisors: Prof. Alfredo Irurtia, INEFC – Barcelona
​​Dr. Ishar Dalmau Santamaria, MD, PhD, Tecnocampus School of Health Sciences
PhD. Lara Rodríguez-Zamora, Örebro University.

The PhD project is linked to the following research groups:

1. Exercise Physiology and Sport Medicine (EPSM)
2. Research Group in Sport Sciences INEFC Barcelona (GRCEIB)
3. Hypoxia, Dietetics, Nutrition and Kinanthropometry Research Group (GIHDiNuC)