True or False: Swimmers should not be allowed to participate in contests involving extended breath-holding or underwater swimming.

Swimmers should not participate in contests involving extended breath-holding or underwater swimming because these activities can pose significant risks, including shallow water blackout and hypoxia. Extended breath-holding can impair the body’s natural responses to low oxygen and high carbon dioxide levels, leading to a loss of consciousness underwater. It's crucial to prioritize safety around water, and recommending against such contests emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe swimming environment and protecting the health of all participants. This principle aligns with best practices in water safety and drowning prevention, which are essential components of effective swimming instruction and lifeguarding.