If you’re interested in becoming a lifeguard, one of the first steps is signing up for a lifeguard training class. The American Lifeguard Association offers certification classes across the country to train new lifeguards. Here’s a overview of what you can expect from your first lifeguard class with ALA.
The Prerequisites
Before starting your lifeguard class, the ALA requires a few prerequisites to be met. You must be at least 15 years old, be able to pass a swimming skills test, and hold a current certificate for CPR and first aid.
The swimming test includes swimming 300 yards continuously using the front crawl or breaststroke. You’ll also need to demonstrate your ability to tread water for 2 minutes without using your hands and swim 20 yards to retrieve a 10 pound brick from the bottom of the pool and return it to the side. This ensures all lifeguards have the minimum swimming and physical skills needed for the job.
The Class Schedule
Most ALA lifeguard classes are scheduled over several sessions totaling around 30-35 hours. The schedule will vary depending on the training location, but you can typically expect classes to meet 2-3 times per week for 2-3 weeks.
Sessions are usually held in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate work and school schedules. Make sure to check the schedule carefully when signing up so you can attend every required class. Missing too many sessions could result in having to retake the course.
Classroom Learning
A significant portion of the class will be spent in a classroom or lecture-based learning environment. Key topics covered include:
- Basic anatomy and physiology – Understanding how the human body works is crucial for lifeguards to recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies.
- Legal responsibilities – Knowing your duties as a lifeguard and understanding legal liability is emphasized.
- Scan techniques – Learning how to properly survey an area and spot potential problems is practiced.
- First aid and CPR – You’ll become certified in first aid, adult and pediatric CPR through hands-on training.
- Spinal injuries – Proper procedures for suspected spinal injuries in the water are demonstrated and practiced.
Expect interactive lessons, videos, discussions and activities to reinforce the material. Be attentive and take good notes – you’ll be tested on this information!
Water Skills Training
A large portion of the class focuses on practicing rescue skills directly in the water. You’ll learn and demonstrate:
- Entry and exit procedures – How to safely and efficiently get in and out of the water in an emergency.
- Rescue techniques – Methods for rescuing conscious, unconscious and injured swimmers using equipment like backboards.
- Spinal rescue – Step-by-step procedures for removing a suspected spinal injury from the water without further compromising their spine.
Instructors will provide feedback to build your skills and techniques. Practicing rescues in shallow and deep water boosts confidence for real-life situations. Be prepared to get wet!
Exams and Certification
Towards the end of the class, you’ll complete written and skills exams to test your knowledge and abilities. The written exam covers first aid, CPR, legal issues and other topics from class.
For skills exams, you’ll be asked to demonstrate rescues, spineboarding and other techniques you’ve learned. Instructors check that skills meet required safety standards.
Upon passing both exams, you’ll earn American Lifeguard Association certification that is valid for 2 years. This credential allows you to work as a lifeguard and get on-the-job experience.
Continuing Education
Even after certification, your training doesn’t end. The ALA requires annual recertification through continuing education classes. These shorter courses review key topics and allow you to refresh and update important rescue skills. Committing to lifelong learning helps maximize lifeguard safety and effectiveness.
By now you have a basic idea of what to expect during your initial ALA lifeguard training class. With focus, participation and hard work, you’ll gain the critical knowledge and abilities to help protect swimmers’ lives. The rewards of being a lifeguard are well worth the effort. Consider signing up for a class soon to start your career in aquatics safety.