Midland Medical

Channel Swim Medical £75

We provide comprehensive Channel Swim Medicals for solo swimmers and relay teams. Whether you are registering with the CSA or the CS&PF, our GMC-registered doctors carry out the detailed physical examinations required to ensure you are fit to swim the English Channel

Whats included in your Channel Swim Medical?

Vision Test
Blood Pressure & Pulse
Urinalysis
Physical Examination

About our Clinic

Why do I need a Channel Swim Medical?

The English Channel is one of the most demanding swims in the world. To register your swim, you must provide a medical self-assessment and a doctor’s medical examination. This is to ensure there are no underlying cardiovascular, respiratory, or neurological conditions that could be exacerbated by cold water immersion and extreme physical exertion

As part of the assessment the Doctor may ask for a specialist report or further medical evidence from your medical team if you have a complex medical history

The assessment includes:

  • Cardiovascular Health: Ensuring your heart can manage the sustained stress of a long-distance swim.
  • Respiratory Function: Checking for any exercise-induced asthma or lung capacity issues.
  • Ear, Nose, and Throat: Verifying your ability to equalize and checking for potential issues with cold-water exposure.

Dont forget to bring with you

Portrait of a woman swimming in open water with wetsuit and buoy

FAQs about Channel Swim Medicals

When should I have my medical?

Most governing bodies require the medical to be completed within a specific timeframe (usually within 1 year of your swim window). Check your registration pack for the exact cut-off dates.
Yes, we can perform a resting ECG at our clinics if your governing body requires it. Please mention this when booking as it may carry an additional fee.

If the doctor finds a concern, we will explain the findings clearly and advise you on the next steps, which may include a referral to your GP or a specialist for further investigation.

The medical must be completed after January 1st in the year of your intended swim. If you do it in December for a July swim, it will be invalid.
The CS&PF usually requires the medical form to be submitted by April 30th (or February 28th for some pilots). Early booking is essential as the slots fill up fast.
In addition to a full physical exam, you will need an ECG and a blood pressure check. The doctor must certify that your “heart and circulation” are sufficient for 10-20+ hours of extreme exertion.
If your BP is high, we cannot sign the form. We may suggest a re-test after a period of rest or a “24-hour BP monitor” to ensure your heart isn’t under dangerous strain during the swim.

Ask us about the Channel Swim Medical