Open-water anxiety can surprise even the strongest swimmer. You can train for months, hit every pool workout, and still feel your chest tighten the moment the race begins—cold water, crowded starts, foggy goggles, and a spiking heart rate can make all your fitness feel far away. As an Ironman coach, I’ve seen this happen to prepared athletes, experienced swimmers, and first-time triathletes alike. Feeling anxious in the swim doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means your body is res