Swimming is a perfect cross-training activity for runners, offering a full-body workout for zero impact. But if you're getting bored of completing the same lengths week in, week out during your swim sessions, it could be time to challenge yourself. Signing up to an event – whether it's an open-water swimming event or pool-based challenge– encourages you to push yourself out of your comfort zone, and can add a competitive element that will make those training sessions in the water feel all the more interesting and relevant. What's more, even though we might be over halfway through the year, there are still plenty of swimming events left to enter for the remainder of 2022.
So what are you waiting for? If you fancy swapping your running shoes for a swimming cap it's time to dive into your next swimming event…
Cancer Research UK Swim 10K Challenge
When? Throughout August
What everyone's reading
Where? Virtual
Commit to swim 10K throughout August, in your own time and at your own pace. This great virtual swimming challenge allows you to take part wherever you normally swim, and is a great goal to set if you find it hard to push yourself: ticking off those kilometres (across as many sessions as you need) can be highly motivating!
WaterAid Swim Marathon
When? August 1 – October 24, 2022
Where? Virtual
This is 26.2 miles with a difference! You have almost three months to complete the marathon distance, and how you complete the challenge is entirely up to you: break the distance down and complete it over your usual weekly lengths, or push yourself to swim the distance over just a few mammoth sessions. A half-marathon option (13 miles) is also on offer.
SwimRutland
When? August 7, 2022
Where? Rutland Water, nr Oakham, East Midlands
Organised by Pacesetter Events, the course takes you across the heart of Rutland Water, one of Europe's largest manmade reservoirs. With 2km, 4km and 8km distances available, plus a 500m option perfect for junior swimmers (12 years +) and beginners, there really is something for everyone at this well-run event.
River Arun Swim 2022
When? August 14, 2022
Where? River Arun, Sussex
Soak up the quintessentially English countryside during this beautiful four-mile summer swim. While four miles might sound daunting, this event is tidally assisted, meaning it will feel much easier than if you were to try to cover the same distance in a lake or pool.
Wild Wood Swim 2022
When? August 29, 2022
Where? Weir Wood Reservoir, nr East Grinstead, East Sussex
Organised by Chestnut Tree House children's hospice, to raise funds for their vital work, this inaugural open-water swimming event offers a 1km beginners' distance, as well as a 3km and 5km option for more experienced open-water swimmers. Set in beautiful surroundings, you'll be supporting local children and their families with every stroke you take.
SwimRutland NightSwim 2022
When? September 3, 2022
Where? Rutland Water, nr Oakham, East Midlands
Always fancied swimming in open water beneath the stars? Then this night swim, organised by Pacesetter Events, is one to tick off the bucket list! The course will be in complete darkness – lit only by the moon, the stars… and swimmer-issued glow sticks! Wetsuits and tow floats compulsory. There are two looped courses on offer – 600m and 250m – and you can complete as many laps as you wish.
Swim Serpentine 2022
When? September, 17 2022
Where? Hyde Park, London
Swim Serpentine, organised by London Marathon Events, has become an iconic event in the outdoor swimming calendar. Taking place in Hyde Park's Serpentine, you can choose from four different distances – half mile, one mile, two miles or the 'Super Six' six miles (already sold out this year) – with waves setting off throughout the day. You'll have to be quick if you want to take part, though – places are selling out fast!
Castle Race Series
When? September, 24-25 2022
Where? Hever Castle, Kent
This multisport event weekend offers triathlon, duathlon, aquabike, aquathlon, swim and run races for all ages and abilities across two days. Swim events – which include 5km, 2.5km and one-mile distances – take place on the Saturday afternoon. Make a weekend of it by camping at the castle and cheering on fellow competitors once you've crossed your finish line.
Aberdovey Swim Beat The Tide 4K 2022
When? October 1, 2022
Where? Aberdovey, Snowdonia
This is a beautiful estuary swim on the edge of Snowdonia National Park. Water temperatures are expected to be around 16C, and there's likely to be some tidal assistance at the start and finish of the swim (although expect to swim against the tide for a few minutes in the middle!). The tidal nature of the swim requires a minimum swim speed: competitors should be able to swim 2km in 45 minutes. There is also a 1.5km 'Classic' distance on offer.
Big Brighton Sea Swim 2022
When? October 2, 2022
Where? Brighton, East Sussex
Held to raise funds for Friends of Brighton & Hove Hospitals, and starting and finishing at Hove Deep Sea Anglers Club, choose from a one- three- or five-mile solo swim along the shoreline. Junior distances of 200m and 400m are also on offer. By registering, you are agreeing to fundraise a minimum of £250 (£100 for juniors).
Night Swim to Live Music
When? November 18, 2022
Where? Hathersage, Derbyshire
Not a competitive event… but certainly an evening with a difference! Bring your friends and family along and swim under the stars at this open air pool in the heart of the Peak District National Park – with live musicians serenading you as you swim! Tickets always get snapped up at this sell-out event (which happens monthly), so pre-booking is essential.
