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TikTokFitnessTalking head

“Here are three things that I wish I knew before I swam for 21 hours in the ocean.”

@beccawmann · 28K followers

×349its author's usual

This creator normally gets 24K views. This one got 8.6M. That gap — not the raw number — is what makes the format worth copying.

A woman in a lake shares three unexpected things she learned from swimming in the ocean for 21 hours, including physical swelling, the importance of a backup feeder, and recurring shark dreams. She illustrates the first point with a before-and-after of her swollen face.

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8.6M
Views
8.4%
Engagement
90/100
Virality

Likes 722KComments 1.4KShares 8.1K

Why it worked

The video works because it shares unique, surprising, and slightly alarming personal experiences from an extreme athletic feat. The 'before and after' visual of her swollen face creates a strong shock visual, immediately grabbing attention and curiosity. The relatable struggles (like getting mad at her mom) and the ongoing, vivid dreams add a personal touch that resonates with viewers, making the content memorable and shareable.

Authentic and relatable storytellingUses a strong visual 'before and after' to illustrate a pointShares unique and surprising insights from an extreme experienceDirect address to the camera creates intimacy with the viewerClear, concise listicle format
personal storylessons learnedextreme sports

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