How to become a lifeguard

The job of the lifeguard is therefore in great demand and is a good path to take especially as summer approaches. It also allows you to gain some work experience and put your first money aside. But how to become a lifeguard? I'll tell you right away! It is necessary to follow a training course, which can be organized by three different entities: 

Course to become a lifeguard: how does it work?

The course to become a lifeguard will last around 100 hours divided as follows: 20 of theory, 50 of practice, and another 30 of training. But be careful: to become a lifeguard and access the lifeguard course, it is not enough to want to and have a great love for the sea. Sure, that's essential, but it won't allow you to pass the test. 

Yes, because unfollow the course you will have to pass an eligibility test !Don't worry, it won't be anything absurd and impossible, indeed you would surely be able to overcome it even now. The tests they will put you through are all practical: 

  • Entry dive into the water from at least 1 meter above sea level
  • Swim at least 50 meters crawl style 
  • Stay afloat for at least 20 seconds vertically, helping yourself only with the movement of your legs 
  • Swim at least 25 meters breaststroke 
  • Recovery of an object at a depth of 3 meters 
  • Swim at least 25 meters in another style, usually of your choice 

If you think about it, these are all things you would already be able to do. Maybe you need a little training and no one is stopping you from taking a few swimming lessons in the pool first, but if you want to become a lifeguard you will surely know how to swim enough already.

Little advice: while swimming, try not to drink too much water… you're not a marine sommelier. Once you have entered the course, you will study all the rescue, resuscitation, and first aid techniques for the most critical situations. In addition, you will be trained in meteorology, hygiene, and ecology.

Last but not least will be the whole part related to bathing ordinances! Just as a real estate agent knows all the laws related to houses and properties, the rules related to the beach and bathing will no longer have secrets for you ! 

swimming in pool


Requirements necessary to become a lifeguard

Basically, anyone could become a lifeguard, or almost. You will have already understood for yourself that, in fact, into able to pursue this dream you need to have a certain head and also a certain physique because it's not exactly the lightest job in the world.

Always standing at attention and ready to go into action is not something for everyone.

In fact, income a lifeguard, some requirements are very important : 


  • Be between 16 and 55 years old 
  • Knowing how to swim well, not as a professional but knowing how to "stay afloat" is not enough
  • Be a member of the American lifeguard events
  • Have suitable psychophysical conditions certified by a doctor 
  • Be in top shape, ready for action, and have good physical stamina

As regards the last point, in fact, starting as a lifeguard is a perfect starting point even for those who dream of following the road to becoming a fitness instructor or personal trainer.

What does the lifeguard do: duties and tasks

The tasks of a lifeguard are quite a lot and they all require a good deal of concentration and expertise, but there is also time to chat with people and make friends. Indeed, becoming a lifeguard is an excellent choice for those who are extroverted and open to new knowledge, but even more so for those who are shy. In fact, as with the receptionist job, you will be forced to converse and be friendly, because in a beach establishment t, there are many people you will have to interact with, so you will make an effort and then you will melt away! Trust me.