Do you suffer from anxiety or panic attacks before or during
the swim leg of your triathlon or open water swims? You’re not alone. It’s
actually pretty common.
Being a coach now the biggest question I get asked is: “How
can I overcome my anxiety I have for open water swimming?”
First of all you need to break it down and work out exactly
what you are anxious about. Is it the fact you can't see the bottom? You're
worried about swimming in a big pack with people either side of you? You
haven’t done much open water swimming in the past? Or is it the lack of water
safety you are worried about? Once you know or have worked out what brings it
on, you can start to address it.
1. Not seeing the bottom – This even freaks me out from time
to time. Whenever you feel yourself thinking about how you can’t see the bottom
or even wondering just what could be beneath you, think about your stroke (your
catch, pull, push, thumb touching your thigh on every stroke). This will distract
you from everything else. Also start off by swimming in shallow water, staying
close to the shore.
2. Pack swimming - This can easily be practiced in a
swimming pool. All you need is some other swimmers to swim side by side with.
The more you can do this, the more comfortable you are going to become swimming
in groups.
3. Open Water Swimming – Swim in the open water as often as
you can. The only way you’ll get better in the open water is by swimming in the
open water. Yes. It’s that simple. There’s no magic trick or special formula.
4. Water safety - Let the water safety officials know before
the race that you suffer from this and ask them to keep an eye on you. Even
wear a bright coloured swimming cap so it makes easier for them to see you.
If you are out there swimming and you feel a panic attack coming on,
have a plan in place. Clear your mind. Take deep breaths. Remind yourself why
you're doing it. Try to remember what you're doing is fun. When you finish
you'll look back and laugh!
Remember to only worry about the things you can control. Think
happy thoughts and have fun!
See you on the beach,
Trent Grimsey
English Channel Record
Holder
No comments:
Post a Comment