When it comes to conquering open water swim versus pool swim, open water can definitely be a bit unsettling. Take away the clear pool water and smooth pool bottom and your mind might go to places you just don’t like. Out in nature, you’re often not going to be able to see the bottom of the body of water you’re swimming in. Plus, things live in open water. Chances are good you’ll be startled by floating seaweed in the ocean – not to mention fish, bat rays, and moon jellys.
Once, during a race off of Ocean City, New Jersey, Morgan had to swim through hundreds of marble-sized baby jellyfish that slipped inside her swimsuit and got stuck on her stomach. She continued to take strokes while scooping globs of jellies out of her suit. No surprise, Morgan describes the experience as “gross.”
So what can you do to avoid a full-out panic attack when you get spooked in open water? Most importantly, find a way to get calm. Here are some good strategies:
- Lift your head out of the water and swim head up freestyle or breaststroke for a minute or two. Looking around might give you the perspective you need to carry on.
- Try turning over on your back and take a moment to float. If moving feels better, kick gently.
- Focus on box breathing – inhale, hold, exhale, hold, all for four seconds each.
Lastly, a wetsuit is your friend. While you can swim in open water without one, a wetsuit will protect you from jellyfish stings and brushes with aquatic flora and fauna, all while keeping you warm.