The Joy of Swimming: Conquering Fear & Finding Freedom

If you had asked me a few years ago if I’d ever willingly dive into a pool, I would’ve laughed nervously and said, “Absolutely not.” After two near-drowning experiences as a child, water became a source of fear—something I promised myself I’d never revisit. But everything changed last year when I watched my 6-year-old confidently swim with joy and ease. At that moment, I realized I had no excuse. It was time to confront my fear head-on. I signed up for beginner swim lessons at 40, the oldest in a class of 7, and stepped into that pool with shaky hands and a determined heart. What I found wasn’t just courage—it was freedom. By fall, I had advanced to intermediate lessons. Earlier this year, I enrolled in advanced swimming at 41, learning new strokes and continuing to refine my skills. It’s never too late to rewrite your story.

Through every step of this journey, adidas has been right there with me, keeping me supported in every sport. From their workout shoes & workout clothes when I lift, to slides & swimsuits in the pool, adidas always gives me the security and coverage I need to focus on my technique, not my outfit. And after each swim, I throw on one of their tracksuits for that perfect post-pool comfort. It’s more than just clothing—it’s part of the confidence that keeps me coming back to the water week after week.

Swimming has become one of the most joyful, empowering parts of my routine, and I’m so proud to say I no longer fear the deep end. I’ve learned to float, to breathe, and most importantly, to trust myself. What’s wild is that when I started in 2024, swimming wasn’t even on my radar. It wasn’t a goal I had set or something I thought I’d pursue. But I felt this quiet nudge—this internal pull—to give it a try. It didn’t make sense at the time, but I followed it. And from that one act of obedience, everything began to shift. Sometimes joy doesn’t show up wrapped in excitement—it shows up in the form of courage, discomfort, and stretching past what you thought you were capable of. I didn’t know what was waiting for me on the other side of the pool, but I trusted the process, and I’m so glad I did.