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Posted by u/the_hungry_runnerBeginner

Anyone else terrified of fish while open water swimming?

TL;DR: Struggling with fear of fish while open water swimming. Any tips?

I love running and I've been training for my first marathon, but open water swimming is a whole different beast! Like, I get it's a natural part of the experience, but the thought of fish swimming around me freaks me out! 馃槀 How do you guys deal with that? Any tips to make it less terrifying? Or should I just stick to pools?

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u/mealprep_maven

I can understand the fear. When I first took my kids to the beach, I was a bit apprehensive too. Try to stick to areas where the water is clearer, so you can see the fish coming. It helps ease that anxiety a bit!

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u/no_time_for_gym

I agree with some of the comments here, the fear is totally valid. Pools do offer a controlled environment. Maybe try to find local open water swim groups; being with others can help ease your worries.

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u/the_hungry_runner

OMG, I totally get it! I used to be freaked out by fish too while swimming. One time, I was in the ocean, and a school of fish swam right past me. It was like a scene from a horror movie! 馃槀 Just focus on your stroke and breathe, you'll be fine.

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u/keto_kardio_kid

Ngl, fish are just swimming protein! 馃槀 But seriously, it can be scary. I think it helps to remember that they're probably more scared of you than you are of them. Just keep your pace and you'll get used to it.

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u/gymbro_420

Bruh, just swim faster if a fish comes at you! 馃槀 But fr, just get used to it little by little. Next time you swim, just focus on the water and forget about the fish, you'll be cruising in no time.

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u/bicepcurl_babe

Right? The first time I swam in open water, I freaked out too. I literally started splashing around like a maniac when I saw a little fish. 馃槀 You just gotta remind yourself that they don't wanna mess with you!

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u/squat_to_pizza

Based! Fish are just swimming snacks. 馃槀 But honestly, if you're more comfortable in the pool, that's totally cool too! Just set little goals to venture into open water. Maybe start with a friend for some moral support.

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u/macro_master99

This is a common concern for many open water swimmers. Studies show that most fish are not aggressive and tend to avoid humans. If you're worried, consider doing some practice swims in a lake where visibility is better. It could help build your confidence.

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u/recovery_queen

I get that! Fish can be intimidating, especially in murky waters. One trick I learned is to do some mindfulness exercises before you dive in. Focusing on your breathing can really help calm those nerves.

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