Many aspiring lifeguards think all it takes is signing up for a basic lifeguarding course to get certified. But the truth is, lifeguard courses involves a lot more rigor, both physical and mental, than most people expect. As a leading provider of American lifeguard Association through American Lifeguard Events, I’ve seen firsthand how eye-opening the process can be for novice guards. Here are some of the shocking realities about what’s actually involved in becoming a lifeguard courses.
Expect Intense Physical Fitness
One of the biggest surprises for many new students is just how physically demanding the courses are. While having basic swimming skills is required, being able to complete strenuous water-based skills is key to passing. You’ll be tested on your endurance through timed swim and run tests. For open water lifeguarding, this often includes a 500 yard continuous swim. You’ll also need to be able to complete certain rescues within strict time limits while demonstrating proper form and technique the entire time. Many students underestimate how tiring it is to tread water for long periods or continuously perform CPR. Coming into the course in top physical shape is essential for success.
Prepare for Rigorous Testing
Lifeguard certification isn’t like most other entry-level jobs where you can learn as you go. To work as a certified lifeguard, you have to prove your competency through multiple challenging written and skills exams with no room for error. Expect to spend a good portion of each class thoroughly reviewing emergency response procedures and practicing rescue skills. by the end, you’ll be tested to national standards on your ability to respond appropriately in any aquatic emergency. This includes passing written exams with scores of at least 80% as well as demonstrate skills like spinal injuries management, first aid, and facility surveillance. For many, the testing process is the most stressful part of becoming certified.
Commit to Refreshers and Continuing Education
Once certified, your training is far from over. As an actively working lifeguard courses, you’ll need to maintain crucial lifeguarding skills through frequent in-service trainings and recurrent certifications. American Red Cross protocols require guards to renew their certification every one to three years depending on the setting. You’ll also need to complete regular refreshers to review policy changes and practice techniques. Failure to adhere to continuing education policies will result in loss of certification. As a professional rescuer, lifeguards literally hold lives in their hands – constant skill development and preparedness is key to safely doing the job.
Consider a Second Certification
Most lifeguard courses only provide basic certification for pool facilities. But as the industry advances, many employers now require or prefer guards to diversify their training with additional certifications. Waterparks, beaches, and aquatic facilities all have their own unique hazards and compliance standards. Factors like tides, rip currents, and large equipment increase risks requiring specialized skillsets. Earning certs for multiple aquatic environments gives you a major edge in the competitive job market. It also opens up new career opportunities beyond the neighborhood pool. Guards who expand their credentials tend to advance faster in the field.
Reevaluate If You Fear Water
While not a deal-breaker, a natural fear or lack of comfort in the water can seriously hinder lifeguard performance. Many duties like rescuing active or struggling victims require entering zones of distress without hesitation. You may even need to perform rescues in dangerously deep areas or conditions with limited visibility. Having an underlying phobia or anxiety in water could negatively impact judgment calls and response times in real emergencies. While training helps build confidence, preexisting water fears may still impair effective decision making under pressure. Take an honest assessment of any apprehensions before committing to lifeguard education.
Insight Into Lifeguard Training Courses
Many students are surprise by the actual time commitment required beyond just the certification classes. Most recognized programs like American Lifeguard Association involve around 30-40 hours total between coursework, pre-reading assignments, skill practice sessions, and exam days. It’s meant to be an intensive process to weed out those who aren’t fully dedicate.
The physical fitness standards can also catch some off guard. In addition to the timed swims and running, you’ll be evaluate on your ability to perform strenuous water rescue techniques repeatedly without a break. Things like rescuing an active 150-pound mannequin from 10 feet require real upper body strength. Having a background in competitive swimming or other conditioning can give you an advantage.
The written exams cover an extensive scope of knowledge, from OSHA regulations to first aid protocols. They involve applying your understanding of accident prevention techniques, emergency action plans, and injury treatment procedures through scenario questions. You’ll need to remember over 100 key terms and demonstrate judgement in different situations.
Securing all the necessary certifications to work in several environments like pools, waterparks and beaches takes extra time and money. But it allows you to maximize job opportunities and career advancement down the line. Many professionals invest in classes for lifeguarding surf or other open water environments too.
Read More: About Lifeguard Recertification
Final Words
Not only are you making a valuable contribution to public safety as a trained professional rescuer, the lifeguard course role can also serve as a solid foundation for other areas in aquatic or leisure industries. Many find it a perfect way to stay active, work with water, and earn money in a fun, outdoor environment. I’ve seen many guards parlay their experience into roles like camp counseling, pool management, water sports coaching and more.
If after reviewing all these details you feel up for the challenge, I highly recommend moving forward with a course. Just be sure to set yourself up for success by coming in with a positive attitude, in good physical shape, and a commitment to fully engaging with the material. Feel free to reach back out if you need any assistance registering for classes or have additional questions as you start your journey to becoming a certified lifeguard.