If panic sets in, take a break, rest, and attempt to calm. Begin with swimming in shallow water, up and down the beach if necessary. Stay in the shallow water until you're at ease. For your first open water swim, choose a location with calm waters. You may travel into harsher seas after you've gained confidence.
The ocean is full of life, from tiny shrimp to huge whales. If you're lucky, you might even see a shark. However, like any other form of public transportation, you may encounter dangers that don't necessarily apply to drivers. There are large waves that could easily wash you away from shore, strong currents that could drag you far from safety, and hidden rocks that could damage your body if you hit them. But because sharks are in myth and legend rather than reality, most people aren't scared off by them. In fact, swimming in the ocean is one of the best ways to have fun and get fit at the same time!
When you first begin learning how to swim, it's normal to feel nervous about going into the deep water. But just as you would with any other type of fear, repetition is the key to overcoming your anxiety about swimming in the ocean. After all, there's no use in fearing something that you'll never experience. So start out small, by swimming a few feet from shore in relatively calm waters. You should be able to do this without risking injury or drowning.
Here are some tips to help you overcome your fear of swimming.
How to Handle Open Water/Triathlon Swim Anxiety
Here are a few tips to help you overcome your anxiety and confidently enter the open sea.
Swim along the coast if possible. Swim directly towards the coast once you've exited the rip current. If you can't swim out of the rip current, float or tread water gently. If you're having trouble, remember to be cool, face the shore, and raise one arm to signal for aid. The lifeguard on duty at most beaches will be able to help you.
The best way to ensure your safety in the ocean is through education. Be aware of local conditions and keep an eye out for marine hazards such as rips, waves, and underwater obstacles that may not be visible from the beach.
The main thing to remember is to take it slow and easy in the ocean. If you feel uncomfortable in any way about swimming in the sea, then don't do it. Contact a local organization that provides information on safe swimming practices in your area if you're not sure how else to proceed.