Who doesn’t day dream while at work about getting to the river, lake or ocean so they can enjoy the fun and relaxing water activities? I know I do. What’s better? Swimmers—like most other exercisers—cut their risk of premature death in half compared to inactive people, and the one big plus swimming has on its side: it’s low-impact so it’s easier on the muscles and joints.

“Fear is made up in our own minds. Ultimately, we have the choice to let go of the fear or hold onto it.” In the days prior to the Ironman competition, I had to keep reminding myself that fear is a story that one tells themselves, it's not real, it’s imaginary, something we manufacture in our heads that prevents us from reaching our true potential.

After 29 hours in the water, and without a shark cage for protection, 61-year old Diana Nyad ended her Cuba to Key West swim less than halfway complete. She endured shoulder pain and 11 hours of asthma attacks, but kept swimming until she could barely tread water.

Last week you may have caught a glimpse of Anytime Fitness members showing off their beach bods in advance of swimsuit season on the Today Show. Did these amazing transformations inspire you, or intimidate you? Did you find yourself dusting off that itsy bitsy teeny weenie yellow polka dot bikini or were you frantically searching for your favorite full body cover-up?