The industry heads to the water at Elevate

Not every industry event starts with a swim. But then, Elevate isn’t every event

On the morning of Day 1, delegates gather at Royal Victoria Dock for the CoursePro Open Water Swim — an early start that offers something a little different before the exhibition halls open and the conference begins. It’s not a race, and it’s not a spectacle. It’s a well-organised, open invitation to get in the water, focus the mind, and meet others in the sector in a shared setting outside the usual routine. Importantly, the swim doesn’t compete with ELEVATE — it complements it. By encouraging delegates to start the day actively, reflectively and together, it adds a meaningful layer to the wider event experience.

Supported by Swim England, Love Open Water and proudly sponsored by HUBB, the event reflects a shared commitment to making outdoor swimming more accessible and more central to conversations about movement, recovery and wellbeing. With experienced open water staff and lifeguards on hand, swimmers of all levels are welcomed and well supported. An early morning with purpose The swim offers a rare kind of start to the day—fresh air, cold water, and a complete change of pace. For some, it’s a physical challenge. For others, it’s a reset before the noise of the show. Either way, it’s an experience that brings a kind of clarity you can’t get indoors.

There’s something about open water that sharpens your focus. The city fades. The inbox waits. And for twenty minutes or so, it’s just movement, breath, and the feeling of doing something real—before stepping into a packed event.

The shared experience of stepping in together tends to break the ice better than any introduction across a conference table.

A proper catch-up (with pastries)

Once wetsuits come off and everyone starts to warm up again, the group heads to the post-swim networking breakfast nearby. It’s a chance to sit down, have a proper conversation, and enjoy the feeling of starting the day with something meaningful.

Attendees often say it’s where the most useful exchanges happen. Less structure, more openness—and the kind of conversations that lead to real collaboration later on.

What it says about CoursePro

The event is run by CoursePro by Fitronics, known across the leisure sector for helping swim schools and centres simplify bookings, attendance, staffing, and communication. The swim reflects that same focus: keep things simple, supportive, and centred on people.

“This event brings people back to why they came into this industry in the first place,” says Marc Jones, Head of Commercial at Fitronics.

“It’s about connection, movement, and starting the day with purpose. We’re proud to host something that feels authentic to the people it’s for.”

It’s about connection, movement, and starting the day with purpose.

Rather than talk about creating space for progress, CoursePro demonstrates it—with real action, in open water.

Looking forwards — and thinking back

Whether you’re reading this the week before or flipping through these pages with a post-show brew, the CoursePro Open Water Swim is something people remember—not because it’s flashy, but because it’s genuine.

For those who took part: it’s already a highlight. And for those who didn’t: it’s the kind of start to the day that stays with you.

● Learn more about the event: [www.fitronics.com/coursepro-open-water-swim-event](https://www.fitronics.com/coursepro-open-water-swim-event)