education | May 04, 2026

How much do you have to swim to be a lifeguard?

During this test, you will be required to continuously swim 300 yards, either front crawl or breast stroke. You are also required to tread water for two minutes without the use of your hands.

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Thereof, can you be a lifeguard if you can't swim?

In practice, a non-swimming guard could prevent 99% or even 99.9% of the injuries and problems a swimming lifeguard could. It's not that it's illegal to be a lifeguard if you can't swim, it's more that you wouldn't be able to get qualified.

Likewise, is it hard to be a lifeguard? Lifeguard training is underrated in how difficult it is. Of course, you will need to gain a lifeguarding qualification –the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ). The truth is, the test you need to pass to gain your NPLQ is intensive. It requires specialist training in order to be successful.

Moreover, do you have to be a certain weight to be a lifeguard?

Lifeguards must be physically fit enough to get in and out of the pool quickly and rescue a drowning victim. You must also be able to prove you can pull weight in the water by diving into the deep section of the pool and retrieving a weight, often 10 pounds.

Can you be a lifeguard if you wear glasses?

Don't worry if you wear glasses / contact lenses. These shouldn't pose a problem as long as you can perform all the tasks in the lifeguard course without them.

Related Question Answers

Is there a height requirement to be a lifeguard?

Now, there is no height or weight requirements for police applicants.

How much does a Baywatch lifeguard make?

Time for a career change? California's Baywatch lifeguards paid up to $210,000 per year.

Can I be a lifeguard at 14?

Fifteen-year-olds, but not youth less than 15 years of age, may be employed as lifeguards at traditional swimming pools and most facilities of water amusement parks. The 15-year-old must be trained and certified by the American Red Cross, or a similar certifying organization, in aquatics and water safety; and.

How much do lifeguards get paid?

The average hourly pay for all lifeguards is around $9.25 per hour, but will vary by experience and location. Experienced beach lifeguards can earn $16 per hour or more.

Can you use goggles lifeguard test?

You will not be allowed to wear goggles for any skills training or final testing during the lifeguard course. The Red Cross warns: Goggles “are not made for underwater swimming. There is no way to equalize the pressure inside the goggles with the increasing pressure outside the body.

Can a 15 year old lifeguard?

Fifteen-year-olds, but not youth less than 15 years of age, may be employed as lifeguards at traditional swimming pools and most facilities of water amusement parks. The 15-year-old must be trained and certified by the American Red Cross, or a similar certifying organization, in aquatics and water safety; and.

What does a lifeguard test consist of?

During this test, you will be required to continuously swim 300 yards, either front crawl or breast stroke. You are also required to tread water for two minutes without the use of your hands.

What are the duties of a lifeguard?

Lifeguard Responsibilities:
  • Overseeing activities at aquatic facility.
  • Assisting with swimming lessons.
  • Explaining and enforcing rules, regulations and policies to ensure safety of patrons.
  • Monitoring designated areas to recognize signs of danger.
  • Warning swimmers regarding unsafe situations.

What does a lifeguard course involve?

Course content The NPLQ covers all elements of Pool Rescue Techniques, Lifeguarding Theory, First Aid and CPR. The course is physically demanding and will include swimming to set times, lifting casualties and diving to the deepest part of the swimming pool.

What it takes to be a lifeguard?

To be a certified lifeguard, you'll need to complete a lifeguard training program and first-aid training. You'll also need lifeguard, CPR, first aid and automated external defibrillator (AED) certifications. Some experience is necessary.

How do lifeguards get in shape?

To become a lifeguard, you'll need to be physically fit and an excellent swimmer. You can get in shape by doing cardio exercises, strength training, and eating a healthy diet. If you're not a strong swimmer, take swimming lessons and practice swimming in your free time.

What should I bring to lifeguard training?

A swimsuit (women: modest one piece is recommended, men: trunks or jammers), a towel, goggles are recommended, pen or pencil, notebook for notes, water bottle, and a lunch/snacks. All participants will receive a loan book and pocket mask the first day of the course.

Can I get lifeguard certified online?

The American Red Cross makes accessing your lifeguarding certification a simple and easy process. We offer digital certificates that can be easily viewed from anywhere via your Red Cross account with simple access to print or share online. Allowing employers access to your certificate information has never been easier.

How do you become a junior lifeguard?

To be eligible to register and participate in the Junior Lifeguard Program, participants must be 9 to 15 years old, and pass the swimming requirements.

Junior Lifeguard Eligibility

  1. Swim 100 yards in no more than 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
  2. Tread water for 5 minutes.
  3. Swim underwater for 10 feet.

How old do you have to be to be a lifeguard in NC?

17 years of age

Is being a pool lifeguard hard?

Don't get me wrong, I love lifeguarding, but sometimes it can be stressful, especially because the lives of the patrons in that pool are in your hands. Well, lifeguard job is very stressful because he need to be very focused and calm all the time and in summer season it is very difficult to be focused all the time.

Is it fun being a lifeguard?

If you're looking for a job with an opportunity to learn, take ownership in your work, and assume more responsibility as you go, lifeguarding is an excellent fit. Remember: lifeguards protect the safety and well-being of anyone who comes to the pool. Few summer jobs can top that in responsibility.

Are lifeguards attractive?

Lifeguards are fun to hook up with (in the Snack Shack), they're attractive, their jobs put little stress on them so they are light-hearted and fun-loving, and they might be able to snag you some free Laffy Taffys (from the Snack Shack).

How much does it cost to get lifeguard certified?

Becoming a lifeguard does require an initial investment of time and money. Certification courses cost anywhere from $150 to $500, and take upwards of 30 hours to complete. If you have a specific facility where you would like to work, check with the manager to see what type of lifeguard certification they prefer.