I'm in my first month of training for my first ever tri. I've given myself a year to train because, although I'm not overweight, I am not in shape. Heart disease runs in my family and for me, on both sides, so I'm determined to be healthy and not be the next victim. I'm up to running a 1/2 a mile without dying and am VERY proud.

I grew up in Central Florida swimming in lakes all summer, skiing, etc. I just went swimming in a lake about 3 weeks ago with my family (just goofing off). I've never been afraid of the open water but last night I had a dream that I was doing a practice swim in a lake near the house and, thanks to the clear visibility with goggles, I looked down and saw an alligator swimming under me. AAGGHH!

Now, I'm worried that this will stick with me. Maybe I am more afraid than I realized.

I know I'll have to actually get out there and swim in order to conquer this new fear but not sure how to do it. Any suggestions?

Well... That's a tough one. I'm not sure I'd swim solo in a lake in FL. I grew up there and was 10 feet tall and bullet proof in my youth but I value life more these days. Do you have a pool you can train in? You could drive to the coast and fight the sharks instead... Sorry, bad joke. Good luck!