Exposure therapy

Today Fit Camp pushed me to the outer limits of my comfort territory. 

The theme of our session was "high-intensity cardio." It started off simply with high-speed, high resistance intervals on the Spin bikes and Arc trainers. Then, we hit the program room for abdominal exercises using Bosu balls to make it more challenging.

Afterwards, Charlotte announced we would be hitting the pool. When I mentioned that I had forgotten my swim suit she said not to worry; I could jump in with my workout clothes (yoga pants and a sleeveless top) on. I knew I was in trouble.

Our assignment was to jump into the pool and pull ourselves out of it 50 times. This terrified me.  I've had a fear of diving into deep water since I was a child and a neighborhood boy pushed me underwater. I was only underwater for a few seconds, but I can still remember the swirling water and the sensation that I wouldn't be able to make it to the surface.

I can swim in deep water, but only if I start on the shallow end of the pool.

Charlotte offered me a lifejacket. But even with it strapped on I stood frozen as I contemplated jumping into my lane. Charlotte provided words of encouragement and a tip about holding the lifejacket close to my body to keep from sinking too deeply into the water.

Eventually, I faced down my phobia and jumped. Other than inhaling some water, I emerged OK. Each jump became a little easier, though honestly I enjoyed pulling myself out a lot more than jumping in.

I guess I can chalk it up as another Fit Camp victory. My arms and shoulders got a killer workout and I tried something that I would have never contemplated doing on my own.