Lifeguard Certification

Not only is lifeguarding a rewarding job, it will also help you develop leadership skills, build self-confidence and learn teamwork. Plus, lifeguarding is a great way to get noticed by colleges and future employers who look for applicants with excellent people skills and can-do attitudes. You will have the opportunity to work in exciting settings such as fitness centers, summer camps, waterparks, and more! Many lifeguards move on to careers in aquatics, fitness and healthcare.

The YWCA of Minneapolis has everything you need to be an American Red Cross Certified Lifeguard, including full training courses for new lifeguards, as well as review courses and challenge courses for continuing lifeguards needing recertification. These courses are for anyone over the age of 15 interested in becoming a professional lifeguard.

Lifeguard Class Registration Policies

• Participants younger than 18 will be required to provide proof of age (at least 15 years of age).
• Participants in all lifeguard courses are required to bring a swimsuit and towel every day of class.
• Participants are encouraged to ensure reliable transportation/parking prior to the first day of class.
• Each day of class will have a 45 minute lunch break. Participants are encouraged to either pack a lunch, or bring money to buy lunch.

Full Course

This 32-hour course provides the essential training necessary to work as a professional lifeguard. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive certifications in Lifeguard Training, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and First Aid.

Participants must attend all portions of the course to be eligible for certification.

The purpose of this class is to teach participants the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies. The course content and activities prepare participants to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and prevent drowning and injury.

All participants must complete the pre-course swim test, which includes a 300-yard continuous swim and simulated water rescue requiring a surface dive to a depth of 7-10 feet. The purpose of the pre-course test is to ensure that the participant demonstrates comfort in the water, along with enough speed, strength and endurance to perform a combination of basic skills that are required and built upon throughout the course.

Note: No refund will be given to those who do not successfully complete course. An admin fee will apply to those who do not pass pre-course testing or those who cancel before registration deadline.

Lifeguard & CPR Challenge Course

6 hours
Cost $95

Lifeguard Challenge courses do not include any instruction or review.

Participants must be proficient in their Lifeguard and CPR skills before attending a challenge course. Study and self preparation is highly encouraged. NOTE: Lifeguard books are not included in the class fee. Participants looking to purchase updated Lifeguard books can contact the Twin Cities Red Cross at www.RedCrossTC.org

Participants MUST present previous Lifeguard Certification the day of class. Those who cannot provide proof of certification will not be allowed to participate in the course.

Eligibility:

• Lifeguards must be currently certified OR have successfully completed an American Red Cross Lifeguarding course within the last four years (participants cannot be expired past 1 year). Certification card or copy is acceptable.
• Non-Red Cross Lifeguards may still be eligible for the course. For a list of other acceptable certifications contact the Twin Cities Red Cross.

Participants must complete the pre-course swim test, which includes a 300-yard continuous swim and simulated water rescue requiring a surface dive to a depth of 7-10 feet.

Upon completion participants will receive American Red Cross Certification in Lifeguard/First Aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer.

Note: No refund will be given to those who do not successfully complete course. An admin fee will apply to those who do not pass pre-course testing or those who cancel before registration deadline.

Contact Information

For questions or more information on any of our courses, please contact Dan Edmondson at 612-215-4154. For registration information, see the Registration page.