Hello Open Water Veterans,
I'm seeking some advice to help next time I try an open water swim. Yesterday I competed in my first open water swim, signed up for the 3 mile, but stopped at two miles due to breathing difficulties. The breathing problems began as soon as I entered the water- I have no idea why.
Water temps in low 70's
I've been training in the water and on land, so cardio fitness and body readiness should be good.
I was mentally prepared, even had a fan club rooting me along.
I've swam in many lakes over the years so no phobias.
Had my usual breakfast (protein shake and some nuts). During hour or so before the race began was sipping on an electrolyte drink and water.I ended up doing head-up *** stroke for the first 3/4 mile before I was able to put my face in the water and breath something close to normal.
It was as if my lungs stopped working (similar feeling to when I had pneumonia many years ago).
By the end of the 2nd mile, which was done mostly freestyle, my lungs began making it difficult to breath and legs were cramping so I played it safe and exited the water. Even today more than 24 hours after the event I'm still feeling like my lungs aren't quite full capacity, otherwise I feel fine. Except for a bit of next stiffness from all the head up *** stroke.
Given the same situation I would do the same again. I'm not looking for sympathy or pep talks, but would like to find out if anyone has had similar experiences or suggestions for next time. (There will be a next time!)
Any ideas??
You noted that you had been training in open water but had you been training in open water that was that cold? If not, then it sounds as though your body simply was not acclimated to that cold of water.
Frequently when the inability to breathe happens to folks, they start concentrating on trying to breathe when in actuality they've not yet breathed out all the air in their lungs. Instead they keep gasping and gasping. So if this happens to you again, focus on exhaling. Pretend your blowing out that last birthday candle on the cake that won't go out. Chances are if you really "blow out that last candle" you'll find yourself able to breathe in. Then just take 30 seconds to do some deep in and out breathing & hopefully you'll be back in the race.
You noted that you had been training in open water but had you been training in open water that was that cold? If not, then it sounds as though your body simply was not acclimated to that cold of water.
Frequently when the inability to breathe happens to folks, they start concentrating on trying to breathe when in actuality they've not yet breathed out all the air in their lungs. Instead they keep gasping and gasping. So if this happens to you again, focus on exhaling. Pretend your blowing out that last birthday candle on the cake that won't go out. Chances are if you really "blow out that last candle" you'll find yourself able to breathe in. Then just take 30 seconds to do some deep in and out breathing & hopefully you'll be back in the race.
