Swim stroke options

[jef09]

I get freaked out by putting my head in murky/ dark water. That was why I ended up backstroking my swim the first race I did. I don't know of any places to practice open water swimming near me, so I am stuck with the pool and mental exercises to get over my issue.

I am going to try to become efficient with the side stroke to see if that is possible. I can't breast stroke because of knee issues.

[Tri Girl]

oooo... side stroke would be good! I didn't even think of that one.
I totally understand the murky water freaking you out! Our lakes here are red mud dark and you can't see your hand at the end of your arm in front of you. The first few times I got super freaked out, then slowly learned to not let it bother me. For the most part, I close my eyes when my head is down- which is odd because it's not like I can see anything even if my eyes were open.
I guess not seeing what's in the lake is probably better- I'm sure there are some mean looking catfish, or snakes or dead bodies I'd rather not be seeing anyway.

How about swimming in the pool with your eyes closed- only looking up every few strokes to sight? Maybe that would help?

Good luck to you- I'm sure you'll find something that will work for you. I can't imagine doing backstroke. I'm horrible sighter while doing freestyle, I can't imagine not looking in the direction of travel at all. Backstroke is impressive

[HillSlugger]

I got through much of my first OWS triathlon using sidestroke; sighting can be an issues if you are on the wrong side, as I was.

Best thing to do is work on your murky water issues and swim standard freestyle.