Lifeguard Training and Certification with the American Lifeguard Association

The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) is a nationally recognized leader in lifeguard training and certification, offering comprehensive programs designed to meet federal and national standards. By aligning with the CDC Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) requirements, ALA ensures its courses prepare participants to excel in their roles as safety professionals in aquatic environments.

Comprehensive Training with a Blended Learning Model

The ALA’s program offers a comprehensive video instructor-led course delivered through a blended learning approach . This format provides participants the flexibility to complete the majority of the online training at their own pace. The program covers essential topics, including lifeguarding techniques, CPR/AED, and first aid, ensuring participants acquire the foundational knowledge required for certification.

Upon successful completion, participants will earn a two-year certification in lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and first aid. Certification records are securely stored in the National Verification System , allowing employers and health departments nationwide to easily verify credentials.

Federal and National Standards Compliance

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, the US Department of Labor, as the federal Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) , recognizes the American Lifeguard Association as meeting national standards for lifeguard training and certification. As part of a select group of national training entities recognized by the US Government, the ALA’s program fulfills national requirements for lifeguard certification in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and US territories.

This recognition underscores the program’s adherence to national benchmarks, ensuring participants are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively to aquatic emergencies.

Prerequisites for Enrollment

Before enrolling in the ALA’s lifeguard certification classes, participants must meet certain prerequisites to ensure they are physically capable of handling the challenges of lifeguarding. The prerequisites include:

To enroll in the Lifeguarding course, you must meet the following prerequisites:

1. Age Requirement:You must be at least 15 years old.
2. Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence:
   • Jump into the water, fully submerge, and resurface.
   • Swim 150 yards continuously using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both. (Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.)
3. Treading Water:Maintain a position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes, using only your legs. (Arms must remain out of the water.)
4. Swim 50 Yards:Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both strokes.
5. Brick Test:Complete the following task within 1 minute and 40 seconds:
   • Swim 20 yards.
   • Perform a surface dive to a depth of 7 feet to retrieve a 10-pound brick from the bottom of the pool.
   • Resurface and swim 20 yards back to the starting point while holding the brick with both hands, keeping your face above water.
   • Exit the pool without using steps or a ladder. (Swim goggles are not permitted during this test.)

These requirements ensure that participants possess the physical readiness and foundational swimming skills needed for lifeguard training.

Employer Pre-Service and In-Service Training Evaluations and Assessment

While the ALA’s program provides a strong theoretical foundation, it requires employers to assess practical abilities through hands-on, in-water evaluations. This mandate aligns with the CDC Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), which requires all employers to conduct both pre-service and in-service training evaluations. These assessments validate lifeguards’ competencies and ensure they meet the specific demands of their facilities.

Employers play a critical role in verifying lifeguards’ practical skills through authentic evaluations , which include:

• In-water rescue scenarios.
• Emergency response drills.
• Evaluations of CPR/AED and first aid application in simulated emergencies.

This approach between the ALA and employers help ensures lifeguards are prepared to handle the challenges of their roles.

Key Components of the ALA Program

The ALA’s lifeguard training program is designed to balance flexibility with rigorous standards. Below are the program’s key features:

1. Video Instructor-Led Training

Participants access a comprehensive library of video tutorials covering essential lifeguarding skills. These videos are designed to provide a detailed understanding of theoretical concepts and practical techniques.

2. Blended Learning Format

The course combines online learning with employer-led practical evaluations. This format enables participants to complete the coursework at their convenience while ensuring their skills are tested in authentic aquatic environments.

3. Certification Validity and Accessibility

Certifications are valid for two years and stored in the National Verification System , allowing employers to easily confirm lifeguards’ credentials. This system ensures nationwide recognition of ALA certifications.

4. National Standards Compliance

The program incorporates guidelines from the CDC’s Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) and the United States Lifeguard Training Standards Coalition. This ensures training aligns with the latest safety protocols and emergency response practices.

Skills Covered in the Training Program

The ALA’s lifeguard certification program equips participants with a wide range of skills, including:

Swimming and Rescue Skills

• 300-Yard Swim: Demonstrates stamina and proficiency in swimming techniques.
• Brick Test: Participants retrieve a 10-pound object from a depth of 7-10 feet and return it to the surface, simulating real-world rescue scenarios.
• Active and Passive Victim Rescues: Techniques for assisting conscious and unconscious victims in various aquatic environments.

CPR/AED and First Aid

• Training includes life-saving techniques for adults, children, and infants.
• Participants learn to operate automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and provide care for cardiac and respiratory emergencies.

Head, Neck, and Spinal Injury Management

• Lifeguards are trained to stabilize individuals with potential spinal injuries, preventing further harm during rescue operations.

Employer Responsibility and Ongoing Training

It is imperative for employers to conduct pre-service evaluations and ongoing in-service training to maintain lifeguards’ readiness. These evaluations are a critical part of the hiring process and ensure compliance with CDC Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) requirements .

Employers must:

• Conduct pre-service in-water testingto assess lifeguards’ physical and practical abilities.
• Implement regular in-service trainingto reinforce skills and introduce new safety protocols.
• Provide orientation sessions to familiarize lifeguards with the unique operations and layout of their facility.

This collaborative approach enhances safety and ensures lifeguards are fully prepared to handle emergencies.

Recognized Excellence in Lifeguard Training

The ALA’s program is among the most respected in the industry, with certifications recognized nationwide. The organization’s commitment to excellence has earned it a place on the organization CDC Healthy Swimming website over the years and acknowledgment from federal agencies such as the US Department of Labor.

Additionally, the ALA has partnered with Swimming Pool and Spa Foundation a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization along with Global Lifeguards to promote aquatic safety on a national and global scale. These partnerships further enhance the credibility and reach of the ALA’s training programs.

Flexible and Accessible Lifeguard Certification with the ALA

The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) understands the diverse needs of its participants and has designed its lifeguard certification program to offer unmatched flexibility. Featuring a comprehensive video instructor-led course and a blended learning format, this program enables individuals to complete their training from virtually anywhere. Participants no longer need to wait for a group class to start, making the certification process more convenient and efficient.

This flexibility is especially advantageous for those balancing multiple commitments, such as work, school, or family responsibilities. Participants can progress through the online theoretical components at their own pace, ensuring a stress-free learning experience. For employers, this adaptability allows the creation of training schedules that align seamlessly with operational requirements, minimizing disruption to day-to-day activities.

In addition to the convenience of the online portion, the ALA’s program helps ensures that participants are prepared for their roles as lifeguards through hands-on, in-water evaluations conducted by employers. This approach adheres to the CDC Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), guaranteeing that lifeguards are trained to the highest standards.

Whether you’re starting your lifeguarding career or an employer seeking an efficient training solution, the ALA’s program provides the tools and flexibility needed to succeed. Take the first step toward certification today!

Lifeguarding as a Career

Lifeguarding is far more than just a job—it’s a crucial responsibility that directly impacts public safety. Lifeguards are the first line of defense in preventing aquatic emergencies, ensuring that everyone can enjoy water activities safely. Their presence offers reassurance to swimmers and visitors alike,