Getting over your fear of water

So many times, when I meet new swimmers joining my classes and training sessions I am met with a sense of fear and tension. Too often I hear the same tale of devastation.

Michael van RensburgCoach

Usually a friend or family member uses unorthodox ways of introducing swimming to children. This includes the (Don’t worry you won’t drown) pushing or throwing someone into a pool.
A moment like this then traumatizes or scars a person, unfortunately sometimes for a lifetime.
I have the most respect for people returning to the pool after decades of scraping the courage together to face their fears.
If you recognize any of the situations mentioned and would like to return to the pool, ocean…, I have a few tips to help with the process.

First reentry.

Knowing the depth of the water is fundamental. Normally this is indicated on the side of the pool or a sign as you enter the pool area. Finding your feet when entering the water is important. Knowing the pool depth will contribute to a sound mind.

Relaxing.

Tense muscles often keep your body a bit lower in the water. Getting use to water temperature and relaxing will improve buoyancy and the “floating” on the surface easier.

Mind over matter.

The strongest muscle in the body will always be the brain. If you can repetitively convince yourself to return to the water in a safe and controlled environment, the process of relaxing and enjoying the water like a child again will be much easier.

Stop fighting.

When we learn to move with the water and not against it, half of the battle is already won. Everyone creates a streamline with their bodies when entering the water. The key is to keep this stream moving without disruption. Good technique taught by a coach will aid a swimmer in creating a near perfect flow.

Playing.

Once you understand the process of staying afloat and moving simultaneously, it is time to start playing. Experimenting with kicking technique and optimal arm movement, combined with great rotation to make breathing a breeze. All these elements might take a while to master perfectly, but maybe in this process somewhere you will be focusing so much on getting faster that perhaps the vivid image of fear fades.

Being in the water is one of the happiest places on earth. The tranquility and possibilities of exploration keeps on pulling me back each time. I hope these tips help you to dive back in and make this part of who you are too.

Always respect it and always love it.