‘Real life mermaid’ swims underwater in the world’s deepest pool using only a nose clip

COURTESY MIRROR

Most people struggle to hold their breath under water for a few seconds.

But this incredibly talented ‘mermaid’ had spectators captivated by this sub-aqua spectacle in the world’s deepest pool.

In this footage Italian free diver, Ilaria Molinari, 37, relies on her amazing ability to hold her breath without the use of breathing apparatus or scuba gear.

The champion diver put on this incredible performance using just a nose clip at the world’s deepest swimming pool in the Hotel Millepini Terme in Montegrotto Terme, Italy.

The pool is not for your average holidaymaker, it is aimed at scuba enthusiasts and free divers capable of holding their breath for minutes at a time.

Called the Y-40 Deep Joy, it is the star attraction at the Hotel Millepini , and has a depth of 138 feet, which if it was above ground would be the size of a 12 storey building.

The pool which took a year to build was designed by architect Emanuele Boaretto and provides courses for aquatic athletes and has a viewing tunnel for spectators.

Molinari has been swimming since she was a baby and has won numerous competitions in her native Italy.

She says her love of the water was inspired by her mother, a marine biologist.

While Molinari makes swimming with a monofin look like easy it is actually a precarious pastime that can only be done in deep water and undertaken with strong swimmers.

She offers courses in monofin swimming for those who’d like to perfect the art and the discipline needed to hold their breath under water for long periods of time.