First-Time Lifeguard? Here’s How to Prepare for 2025 Classes

Becoming a lifeguard for the first time is both an exciting and serious responsibility. Whether you're aiming to work at a pool, beach, or water park, preparation is key to ensuring you succeed in your 2025 lifeguard training class. Lifeguards play a critical role in public safety, and being well-prepared can help you excel both in training and on the job.

If you're new to the profession, this guide will help you understand how to get ready for your lifeguard class and what to expect during your training.

1. Understand the Role and Responsibilities

Before diving into training, it’s important to know what lifeguards do. Lifeguards are responsible for:

• Monitoring aquatic environments.

• Preventing accidents and injuries.

• Responding quickly and effectively in emergencies.

• Administering basic first aid and CPR.

Understanding these responsibilities helps you mentally prepare for the expectations and physical demands of the job.

2. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Most lifeguard courses have the following minimum requirements:

• Must be at least 15 or 16 years old (age may vary by state or facility).

• Ability to swim a specific distance (usually 300 yards continuously).

• Tread water for two minutes using only legs.

• Retrieve a 10-pound object from deep water within a time limit.

Check these prerequisites and start practicing early if needed. Many first-timers struggle with the swim test, so preparation is essential.

3. Improve Your Physical Fitness

Lifeguarding is physically demanding. Strength, endurance, and stamina are necessary to perform rescues and maintain vigilance for long hours. Begin a fitness routine that focuses on:

• Swimming laps regularly.

• Cardiovascular conditioning (running, cycling).

• Core and leg strength exercises.

• Flexibility and mobility workouts.

Training your body will give you confidence and improve your performance during practical tests and real-life scenarios.

4. Get Comfortable in the Water

If you're not a strong swimmer, take a few swim lessons or practice independently. You should be confident in various water conditions (shallow and deep water), and know how to use different swimming strokes effectively, especially:

• Freestyle (front crawl)

• Breaststroke

• Sidestroke

Confidence and comfort in water are crucial for reacting calmly in emergencies.

5. Brush Up on First Aid and CPR Basics

Though lifeguard courses teach CPR, AED, and first aid, having a basic understanding before the class can give you a head start. Watch videos or read guides to familiarize yourself with:

• Chest compressions and rescue breaths.

• Using an AED.

• Basic wound care and injury assessment.

This foundational knowledge makes it easier to absorb information during your course.

6. Learn About Lifeguard Equipment

Familiarize yourself with common tools used in lifeguarding such as:

• Rescue tubes

• Backboards

• Whistles

• First aid kits

Knowing how and when each tool is used helps you stay ready during practical assessments and real-world incidents.

7. Mentally Prepare for Serious Situations

Lifeguards often face high-pressure situations. Mental preparation is just as important as physical training. Develop:

• Focus and concentration.

• Quick decision-making skills.

• The ability to stay calm under stress.

Try mindfulness techniques or visualization exercises to mentally rehearse handling emergencies with confidence and control.

8. Take Practice Tests (if available)

Many online resources offer practice quizzes for lifeguard training. Taking these can help reinforce your knowledge in:

• Rescue techniques.

• Emergency protocols.

• Lifeguard responsibilities and ethics.

This type of self-testing ensures you're retaining the material and helps you feel more confident walking into the final exams.

9. Choose the Right Class Format

Lifeguard classes are offered in different formats:

• In-person training.

• Blended learning (part online, part in-person).

If you're more comfortable with hands-on experience, opt for full in-person training. If you're good at learning independently, a blended format might work for you. Be sure to check that the course you choose meets national safety standards and includes certification in CPR, AED, and First Aid.

10. Stay Committed and Open to Feedback

Lifeguard training is intensive, but not impossible. Show up on time, stay focused, and be ready to learn. Instructors will give valuable feedback—use it to grow. Keep a positive attitude and work well with others, especially during team drills and rescue simulations.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified lifeguard is a meaningful and empowering achievement. It requires a combination of physical readiness, mental focus, and a genuine commitment to safety. If you’re planning to enroll in a lifeguard class in 2025, the best thing you can do is prepare now.