Most people sign up for a lifeguard class near them thinking all it will involve is learning basic water rescues and first aid. While those skills are certainly taught, what many don’t realize is just how rigorous the training actually is. Here are some shocking truths about what really goes on in a lifeguard certification course close to home. Business
Physically Demanding Requirements
To become a certified lifeguard, you must successfully complete Water Safety courses that push your physical limits. For example, students are expected to swim 500 yards continuously using rhythmic breathing and a strong front crawl stroke. After climbing out of the pool, you then have 2 minutes to swim 20 yards, retrieve a 10 pound brick from the deep end and return it to the edge of the pool within 1 minute and 40 seconds.
The treading water test requires you to tread water for 2 full minutes without using your hands. And during the training rescue scenarios, you’ll need to be able to swim 20 yards, locate and bring the victim to the surface safely, and swim 20 yards back while supporting them out of the water within 1 minute and 40 seconds. meeting all of these physical benchmarks is no easy feat so be prepared for intense swim workouts and drills.
Cost Concern: More Expensive than Expected
With the added classroom and skills components, lifeguard class near me tend to be pricier than most people budget for. Nationally, certification courses average between $150-300 depending on your location and training provider. Be prepared for additional expenses like course materials, certification registry fees, uniform costs.
Don’t assume your local pool or community center is offering subsidized options either. Make sure to compare rates from all training providers like American Lifeguard Events in your area to find the best value. Some even offer payment plan options. Proper budgeting upfront prevents cancellation due to unexpected costs at the end of training.
Rigorous First Aid Training
In addition to swimming skills, lifeguards must be highly trained in first aid and CPR. You’ll spend classroom hours mastering emergency oxygen administration, spinal injury management, bleeding control techniques, bone and joint immobilization, and more. Extensive practical sessions allow you to demonstrate your first aid competence on manikins for various injury scenarios. The testing includes responding appropriately to written emergency simuations as well. Passing scores on both written and skills exams are a must before certification.
Schedule Surprise: Intense Time Commitment
Most lifeguard certification programs are packed into a full week of training to efficiently prepare you for certification. Expect 6-8 hour days spent either in the classroom or active in the pool. Some even schedule weekend classes and have evening hours. Juggling a certification training schedule on top of a working/school schedule is challenging.
Thoroughly review class dates and times before registering to avoid last-minute conflicts. American Lifeguard Events tailors session options to make the process easier fit most calendars. If group training won’t work, look for private lesson options that can be scheduled around your availability.
Stressful Testing Environment
When test day arrives for your lifeguard class near me, the pressure is on to perform perfectly. Instructors closely watch and evaluate your every movement during the physical skill testing and practical scenarios. One mistake could mean failure and needing to retake the entire course. Being in front of evaluators while simulating a real-world rescue can induce stress, so having confidence and keeping a level-head is crucial. Both your physical and mental preparedness will really be challenged.
Ongoing Training Requirements
Certification is not the end once you complete a lifeguard class either. Lifeguards are expected to maintain a high level of physical fitness and skill throughout their career in the role. Employers often require guards to re-certify yearly which involves re-passing written and skills testing as well as continuing education classes. Staying on top of the latest guidelines, first aid advancements and regular in-service training is part of being a professional and fully capable lifeguard.
Requirement Shock: Classroom + Water Skills
Most people are surprised to learn that becoming a certified lifeguard isn’t just a matter of showing up for a class and getting your certificate. All state-certified lifeguard training programs require both intensive classroom instruction as well as rigorous in-water skills sessions.
You’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in front and back crawl strokes, treading water for extended periods, and performingrescues using techniques like reach, throw, row and tow. Many programs also require intermediate-level swimming ability before you can even sign up. Make sure to allocate several full days to devote to both classroom lectures and active pool time to fully complete the program.
Ongoing Training Necessary
Once certified, that shiny new lifeguard badge doesn’t mean your training days are over. Most states and facilities require annual refreshers and continuing education like CPR/First Aid certification. You may also be responsible for maintaining minimum swim and rescue skill standards through the season. Staying sharp and compliant with ongoing practice takes committed time that gets overlooked. Ensure lifeguarding will fit long-term with future study/career plans before pursuing it as a primary career path.
Job Outlook Shock: Competition Abounds
With summer comes a surge of applicants looking to begin or continue lifeguarding. Securing work after certification shouldn’t be assumed, especially for preferred employers and locations. Proven customer service skills, flexibility and related experience like swim instructor could make candidates more competitive. American Lifeguard Events graduates may find additional support with job placement assistance though openings vary annually. Research the demand in your area upfront and be strategic with employer applications and follow ups.
Final Words
While it’s an ideal job for many, earning lifeguard certification takes substantial commitment beyond a simple class. Carefully weigh costs, schedules, training demands and job outlook before committing to a program. With thorough planning and understanding of the realities, lifeguarding can be an achievable and rewarding career path for the right individuals. Let American Lifeguard Events guide you towards success through top-quality training programs held near nationwide locations.
