| Abstract |
This pilot study was conducted to observe real-time heart rate(HR) changes during a multistage diving protocol
in an actual open-water environment and identify cardiorespiratory response characteristics. This study intends to provide
foundational physiological data for diver safety and development of aquatic cardiac rehabilitation programs. Methods:
Four healthy male divers participated in this study, which was conducted at a depth of 12-14 m. The protocol consisted
of four phases: descent(phase 1), comfortable activity(phase 2), fast swimming(phase 3; performed at a maximum
sustainable pace), and ascent/safety stop(phase 4). HR was continuously recorded using a diving computer paired with
a chest-strap sensor, and the data were analyzed to identify phase-specific patterns. Results: HR showed distinct
phase-dependent fluctuations across all sessions. Phase 3(fast swimming) elicited the highest HR response(147.39±15.31
beats per minute(bpm)), which was higher than that observed in phases 1(118.73±14.06 bpm) and 2(118.81±16.58 bpm).
During phase 4, HR decreased to 122.62±13.58 bpm, confirming a consistent and reproducible pattern of gradual rise,
peak, and recovery aligned with activity intensity in the marine environment. Conclusion: The results confirmed that
HR responses vary systematically according to activity intensity and are consistently reproducible even in an open-water
environment. These findings provide foundational data for diver safety monitoring and preliminary evidence to inform the
design of aquatic cardiac rehabilitation and physical therapy programs. |