When I used to live in Hawaii, I hit the water a lot more than I do nowadays. Today I got a chance to hit the pool and it was fun. Not us fun as the beach and ocean in Hawaii but fun and still good exercise.
When I was in the water I did not feel like I was struggling for air, I am wondering if the worst is behind me.
Was in the hot tub as well, I think the hot water warmed up my chest pretty good, but I do feel like it made me have a harder time to breath.
In addition to the swimming I did do some pushups and situps.