We all know the benefits of swimming, but it can also benefit others. Here are some ideas:

SWIMATHON 2015 for Marie Curie

Brockwell Lido, 17-19th April 2015

Established in 1986, Swimathon is a nationwide swimming challenge that encourages swimmers up and down the UK to swim a variety of challenge distances at their local pool and raise money for charity. Over the past 27 years of Swimathon, more than half a million swimmers have taken part, raising over £40million for charitable causes.

From Friday 17 to Sunday 19 April 2015, swimmers will take the plunge and take part in Swimathon 2015, fundraising for Marie Curie. The UK’s biggest fundraising swimming event will see thousands of people taking the plunge at hundreds of pools around the country. The challenges are designed to suit all levels of fitness, all abilities and all ages. You can choose to take on one of our individual 1.5k, 2.5km or 5k challenges or the Team 1.5k and 5k. You can also take on your challenge, your way by signing up to SimplySwim.

For more information click here>>

PIER TO PIER SWIM for British Heart Foundation

Bournmouth, 12th July 2015

Last year a record numbers of swimmers plunged into the English Channel for this famous pier to pier charity swim. About 1,600 people swam in the 1.4 mile (2.2km) swim, between Bournemouth and Boscombe piers, raised around £150,000 for the British Heart Foundation.

About 60 lifeguards were involved in the event, which was run in two heats and watched by thousands of spectators along the promenade. Andy Coles, from the British Heart Foundation, said: “It was such a magnificent spectacle and at 14 degrees the water was quite warm too. Some swimmers were in wetsuits but others braved it in their costumes or swim shorts.”

For more information click here>>

HENLEY MILE for Frank Water

Henley, 12th July 2015

The Henley Mile is a straight line downstream River Thames swimming event, held over the Henley Royal Regatta boomed course.

This family event, which is held throughout the day, features two distance options of one or half a mile for adult swimmers, which makes it perfect for experienced open water swimmers who are looking for their next open water challenge.

There is also a non-competitive Sporting category ideal for swimming enthusiasts who are looking to take part in their first open water swim, as they will be able to swim the course in their own time, without the pressure of being part of a race.

You will also have the opportunity of visiting The Open Water Swimming Show which combines an expo with seminars and a chance to get in the water to test the latest kit or just to enjoy a casual swim. Try on a wet suit or book a swimming holiday and be inspired by the great line-up of great speakers and guest coaches.

To raise money for Frank Water you will need to contact them direct, and the race entry form can be found here>>

GREAT LONDON SWIM, NEWHAM for MacMillan

London Docklands, 18th July 2015

Swimmers will take the plunge in the shadow of the O2 Arena and Canary Wharf then swim alongside the ExCeL centre. A fantastic opportunity to experience open water swimming in the heart of the vibrant East End, where there are numerous options for accommodation and entertainment. Suitable for swimmers of all abilities, you can enjoy this event safe in the knowledge expert safety kayakers will be with you every stroke of the way.

There is the option of swimming one mile or half a mile. For more information click here>>