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FIRST AID CPR/AED

FIRST AID CPR/AED

Many yoga teachers should have CPR, AED, and first aid training. This training can help save lives and improve safety in the classroom. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shares that most fitness trainers, which includes yoga instructors, must have CPR and first aid training. They also typically need AED certification. AED stands for automated external defibrillator.

CPR Certification Necessary for Personal Trainers

As a personal trainer, you work with clients to help them achieve fit and healthy lifestyles. But the fact is: a half-million people experience cardiac arrest every year. While only a small percentage (1.9%) of those incidences happen during or after strenuous workouts*, knowing CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and how to use an AED(automated external defibrillator) can help save a life if someone’s breathing or heart stops. In fact, CPR can double or triple the chance of survival when someone takes action.

That’s why both the NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) and AFAA (Athletics and Fitness Association of America) have the following requirements before you take the Personal Trainer Exam. You must:

Why yoga teachers should be CPR-certified? 

  • Meet employer requirements: Many yoga studios and organizations require CPR certification for their instructors. 
  • Set a good example: CPR-certified instructors show their students that they are committed to their safety. 
  • Save lives: CPR certification can help instructors save lives in emergencies.

How to get CPR, AED, and first aid training?

  • American Red Cross: Offers CPR, AED, and first aid training courses. 
  • AHA: Offers CPR, AED, and first aid training courses. 
  • Online First Aid Training: Offers online first aid training for yoga teachers. 

First aid, CPR, and AED certification teaches you how to provide emergency care to an injured person. You can get certified through the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, or the American AED/CPR Association.

American Red Cross Offers in-person and blended learning courses, Courses meet OSHA requirements, Certification is valid for two years, and Classes are taught by experts. 

American Heart Association

  •  Offers online and blended learning courses 
  • Courses are designed for people with little or no medical training 
  • Certification is valid for two years 
  • Courses include hands-on skills sessions with an instructor 

American AED/CPR Association

  • Offers online courses with videos and animations 
  • Courses are designed for healthcare providers, emergency responders, and others

What you’ll learn?

  •  How to perform first aid 
  • How to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) 
  • How to recognize and care for breathing emergencies 
  • How to recognize and care for cardiac emergencies 
  • How to prevent illness and injury

Additional considerations

  • Different employers and facilities may have different certification requirements. 
  • Some insurance providers may require proof of CPR and AED certification. 
  • CPR certification courses also teach first aid skills, such as stopping bleeding and treating shock. 

Other Benefits of AED/CPR Training for Personal Trainers, Fitness Instructors

Aside from the obvious benefits of having CPR and AED training as part of your job in the fitness industry, there’s plenty of value beyond the gym. Perhaps you’re a parent. Maybe you’re a caregiver to elderly loved ones. You may even work full-time in another industry when you’re not at the gym. Regardless of the scenario, your life-saving skills give you the confidence to act when emergencies occur. Plus, these skills look great on a resume, no matter where your career takes you.